SACPCMP CHS Officer exam-day guide
SACPCMP CHS Officer · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Original identity document or passport
Bring the original document (not a copy or photo). The name must match your SACPCMP registration/candidate record exactly. If your documents differ in name, resolve it with the council before exam day.
Exam admission or confirmation letter
Print the confirmation the provider issues after you book. If the provider does not issue one, confirm with the provider what proof of booking to bring.
Proof of registration and payment
Carry a copy of your exam booking confirmation and payment receipt in case of a seat or register query at the venue.
Two or more black or blue pens plus a pencil, eraser and sharpener
Bring spare pens. Confirm with the provider whether the paper is answered in pen, pencil, or on a separate answer sheet.
Non-programmable calculator
Only if the provider permits calculators. Confirm with the provider which models are allowed; programmable or smart devices are usually excluded.
Printed directions and a transport plan for the venue
Confirm the exact venue, building entrance, and arrival time with the provider. Plan to arrive well before the start so traffic or parking delays do not cost you marks.
A simple wristwatch
Use a non-smart watch to pace yourself. Confirm with the provider whether wall clocks or time warnings are given during the session.
Your candidate or registration number
Write it down and keep it with your documents so you can complete the answer sheet correctly.
Leave phones and smart devices at home or switched off and packed away
Smartwatches, phones and earphones are generally not allowed at the desk. Confirm with the provider where devices must be stored.
Confirm the exam format, duration, and number of questions
Ask the provider whether the paper is multiple choice, written, or mixed, how long it runs, and whether there is negative marking. Do not rely on hearsay from other candidates.
Revise the legal and technical scope, not new material
Focus on the OHS Act 85 of 1993, the Construction Regulations 2014, and the CHS Officer scope of practice. Use your own summary notes rather than starting a new topic the night before.
Pre-arrange any access or special needs accommodation
Request extra time, a separate venue, or other accommodation from the provider well in advance. Confirm with the provider what evidence they require and by when.
Plan the day
Reconfirm venue, date, start time, and exam format with the provider in writing. Print or download your admission letter and ID copy. Check that your ID is valid and the name matches your registration. Plan your route, travel time, and parking.
Do light, structured revision of your own summaries of the OHS Act, Construction Regulations, and hazard identification and risk assessment basics. Stop adding new material. Protect your sleep.
Pack your bag: ID, admission letter, proof of booking and payment, pens, pencil, eraser, sharpener, permitted calculator, watch, water, and a snack for afterwards. Lay out your clothes. Confirm transport and set two alarms.
Do one short review of headings and definitions only, then stop. Eat properly, avoid alcohol, and go to bed at a normal time. Do not stay up cramming.
Eat a proper breakfast, take your packed bag, and leave earlier than you think you need to. Aim to be at the venue well before the start so you can find the room and settle. Keep your phone off and packed away.
Present your ID and admission letter for verification, find your allocated seat, and place only permitted items on the desk. Listen carefully to the invigilator's instructions and complete all candidate details on the answer sheet before you start writing.
Read the whole paper or the instructions first, then allocate your time by marks per question. Answer the questions you know best first, then return to harder ones. Show your working where marks are awarded for method. Keep an eye on the clock and reserve the last portion of the session to check that every question is answered and your candidate details are correct.
Rules to check
Bring your original identity document. You will generally not be admitted without acceptable identification, and the name must match your registration record. Confirm with the provider which documents they accept.
Arrive before the published start time. The provider sets its own late-arrival and admission cut-off policy; confirm with the provider what happens if you are delayed.
Cellphones, smartwatches, earphones, and any unauthorised notes or materials must be switched off and stored away as instructed. Having them at your desk may be treated as misconduct.
Only use stationery and equipment the provider permits. Confirm with the provider in advance whether calculators, reference legislation, or any open-book materials are allowed.
Raise your hand and wait for the invigilator if you need to leave the room for a restroom break or need help. Do not communicate with other candidates during the session.
Any form of cheating, copying, impersonation, or disruptive behaviour may result in your paper being cancelled and further action by the council. Follow every invigilator instruction.
Marking and pass requirements are set by the provider and the council. Confirm with the provider how the paper is scored, whether there is negative marking, and what the pass mark and result timelines are, rather than assuming.
Keep your answer sheet and question paper in the room until the invigilator collects them. Do not remove any exam material from the venue.