Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How does certification differ from qualification and licensure?
    Qualification means that one has attended a training course and/or passed an examination based on the training. Certification involves meeting defined requirements for education, experience, quality of work products, training and references. Licensure is the granting of a license by a governmental body to practice in a particular profession.
  2. How do Primacert certifications relate to the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) designation?
    The CSP designation covers a broad range of safety topics, although a specialization in process safety is available. Primacert certifications are for specific technical areas within process safety and risk management.
  3. How long does it take to become certified?
    Typically, certification will take up to several weeks including scheduling and administering the examination.
  4. I don't have a degree, but I have been performing PHAs for many years, am I eligible for certification?
    Primacert will review individual situations on a case-by-case basis. Please contact primacert directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
  5. Do I have to attend a training course delivered by Primatech?
    Both Primatech and non-Primatech courses are acceptable. Primacert will evaluate the content of non-Primatech courses listed in your application to ensure they cover the required material for certification. Primacert wants to ensure that applicants have attended a course that covers information necessary to pass the examination.
  6. Can I take the examination immediately following a required training course?
    Primacert requires that you submit an application which, if deemed complete and acceptable, qualifies you to take the examination. Primacert discourages taking the examination immediately following a qualifying course because we believe applicants need time to absorb and study the information covered by the training course to obtain a passing score on the examination.
  7. How long does it take to get results of the examination?
    Usually, Primacert informs you of the results within one week of receiving the completed examination.
  8. Where will the examination take place?
    The examinations are arranged on a case-by-case basis at locations convenient for both the applicant and the proctors. This includes international locations.
  9. Are there requirements for periodic recertification?
    Yes. Certification is good for three years. There are no annual maintenance requirements.
  10. Do I need continuing education credits to maintain certification?
    No continuing education credits are needed to maintain certification. However, recertification does require attendance at further training courses which varies depending on the certification level. Other recertification requirements may be found in Recertification Overview.
  11. Where are examinations offered at international locations?
    Primacert offers examinations at various locations throughout the world.  During most years, examinations can be scheduled in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Singapore and the Middle East. In some years, additional locations may be offered.