Process safety addresses the reduction in the risk from catastrophic accidents posed by facilities that handle hazardous materials.  Audits of process safety and risk management programs provide critical assurance that such programs have been designed and implemented correctly.  Consequently, it is essential that individuals who perform such audits meet a standard for competence.

This certification is intended for a process safety professional who routinely leads process safety audits that are more complex.  An Expert has a minimum of ten years of relevant experience and conducts studies frequently. This professional has advanced knowledge of process safety elements.

Primacert expects that a Certified Audit Expert using the designation CAE^℠ can demonstrate competency by meeting the following requirements:

• A degree from an accredited university or college in a relevant technical discipline.  At a minimum, degree includes three years relevant, full-time tertiary education.

• A minimum of ten years of recent and relevant work experience.
• Relevant work experience must include leading a minimum of four process safety audits within the last year.

• The protocol that was used during a process safety audit conducted by the applicant within the last year must be submitted.

• In addition to the training required for the practitioner and specialist levels, successful completion within the last three years of an additional 5 days of training that provides an advanced understanding of process safety elements.

• Two references from supervisor / manager / peer who can attest to academic qualifications, work experience, professional ethics, and responsibility for work products.
• Additionally, two references from individuals who were members of an audit team for which the applicant was a member or leader within the last year who can rate auditing skills.

• Successful completion of the Primacert examination for CAE^℠.
• For a list of examination topics, see Audit Exam Topics.

• Certification is valid for three years.
• For recertification requirements, see Recertification Requirements for CAE^℠.