How to Achieve the TSP Designation Without Taking the ASP Exam
In the world of safety certifications, the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) credential by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) stands out as one of the most prestigious and globally respected. However, many aspiring safety professionals hesitate to pursue the CSP designation due to the prerequisite of passing the ASP (Associate Safety Professional) exam.
What if we told you there’s a recognized alternative pathway that allows you to bypass the ASP exam altogether?
Let’s dive into how you can achieve the TSP designation and become eligible for CSP without taking the ASP exam—through the IOSH Level 6 Diploma or other BCSP-approved qualifications.
What Is the TSP Designation?
TSP stands for Transitional Safety Practitioner, a designation granted by the BCSP to candidates who have completed specific approved safety programs. TSP holders are:
Exempt from the ASP exam
Eligible to apply directly for the CSP certification exam
Recognized for having received high-quality, BCSP-approved training
This designation streamlines the CSP journey, saving both time and effort for qualified professionals.
✅ Why Avoid the ASP Exam?
The ASP exam is often considered a challenging and technical hurdle for many professionals, especially those from non-U.S. educational backgrounds. Key concerns include:
High failure rates due to technical depth and U.S.-centric content
Intensive preparation time
Additional costs for materials and retakes
By bypassing the ASP exam through the TSP designation, you simplify the journey and focus directly on the CSP exam, which is the final and most important credential.
🎓 Qualifications That Grant the TSP Designation (No ASP Required)
The BCSP maintains a list of Qualified Equivalent Programs (QEPs) that grant graduates the TSP designation. If you complete one of these programs, you can skip the ASP and go straight to CSP.
One of the most popular and accessible options is:
👉 IOSH Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management
Offered through BCSP-recognized providers like M2Y Global Academy, this diploma is:
Globally respected and aligned with international safety standards
Approved by BCSP as a QEP
Designed for working professionals seeking international safety credentials
By completing this diploma, you’re eligible for the TSP designation—and thus, the CSP exam—without ever taking the ASP.
🔍 Other Recognized QEPs That Offer TSP
In addition to the IOSH Level 6 Diploma, other programs that can lead to TSP designation include:
ABET-accredited degrees in Safety
Master’s programs in Occupational Safety & Health
Other accredited Level 6 or 7 diplomas recognized by BCSP
Always check the BCSP TSP Directory for the latest list of approved qualifications.
Step-by-Step: How to Achieve CSP Without ASP
Let’s break this down into actionable steps:
1. Enroll in a BCSP-Approved QEP Program
Choose a program like the IOSH Level 6 Diploma offered by M2Y Global Academy. Make sure the provider is listed under the BCSP’s approved list.
2. Complete the Diploma
Engage in the learning process, finish assignments and assessments, and obtain your certificate. Most programs take 6–12 months and are designed to fit around full-time work.
3. Apply for TSP Designation on BCSP Portal
After graduation, submit your diploma to BCSP via their online portal. You will need to:
Create a BCSP profile
Upload your qualification proof
Submit a TSP application
4. Receive TSP Approval
Once approved, you’ll officially become a TSP (Transitional Safety Practitioner). Congratulations—you’ve now skipped the ASP exam!
5. Prepare for CSP Exam
Now focus your efforts on studying for the CSP exam, which evaluates core safety principles, risk management, safety program development, and advanced hazard control.
6. Pass the CSP Exam and Become Certified
Once you pass the CSP exam, you will be awarded the Certified Safety Professional credential—among the most recognized designations in the world of occupational safety.
Benefits of Taking the TSP Pathway
By choosing the TSP route instead of sitting for the ASP exam, you gain multiple advantages:
✅ Saves time – Skip a major exam stage
✅ Cost-effective – No ASP study material or exam fees
✅ Less stress – One less high-stakes exam to prepare for
✅ Strategic career move – Focus directly on the higher-level CSP
✅ Globally recognized education – Programs like IOSH Level 6 hold international weight
Real-World Example: CSP Without ASP via M2Y Academy
Arun, a safety officer from Chennai, wanted to pursue CSP but was intimidated by the ASP exam. Through M2Y Global Academy, he enrolled in the IOSH Level 6 Diploma. After successful completion, he applied for the TSP designation, was approved, and is now preparing for the CSP exam—skipping the ASP entirely.
His advice?
“Go with a recognized institute that offers proper support. M2Y helped me every step of the way.”
Why Choose M2Y Global Academy?
At M2Y Global Academy, we make it simple and achievable for professionals like you to:
Get internationally recognized safety qualifications
Skip unnecessary exams
Advance your career with confidence
We provide:
Expert trainers with real-world CSP experience
Flexible online classes
Affordable course fees
Guidance on applying for TSP and CSP
CSP Course Fee at M2Y:
🇦🇪 AED: 1,500
🇮🇳 INR: ₹35,000
🇺🇸 USD: ~$410
✅ FAQs:
TSP stands for Transitional Safety Practitioner. It is a designation by BCSP that allows qualified individuals to bypass the ASP exam and apply directly for the CSP certification.
Yes. The IOSH Level 6 Diploma is recognized by BCSP for the TSP designation, enabling you to skip the ASP and apply for CSP certification directly.
Eligibility depends on completing a BCSP Qualified Equivalent Program (QEP), such as the IOSH Level 6 Diploma or other accredited safety diplomas listed on the BCSP’s official site.
The TSP designation fulfills the CSP exam eligibility requirement, eliminating the need to pass the ASP exam and accelerating your path to becoming a Certified Safety Professional.
Final Thoughts
The path to becoming a Certified Safety Professional no longer has to be filled with unnecessary hurdles. By choosing the TSP pathway, you can bypass the ASP exam completely and focus your time, money, and energy on what really matters—becoming a top-tier safety expert.
Take control of your future. Enroll in a TSP-approved program like the IOSH Level 6 Diploma today, and start your CSP journey with M2Y Global Academy.
