PERSONNEL DATA PROTECTION SPECIALIST (PDPS) CERTIFICATION
IIM Certifications - The Industry Standard for Professional Competence in Data & Information Management
Introduction
The PDPS certification program is designed to ensure that HR/Personnel professionals are well-equipped to handle the complexities of data protection within their organizations. By focusing on practical skills, regulatory compliance, and ethical considerations, this certification prepares professionals to safeguard employee data effectively. Continuous updates and adherence to evolving data protection standards ensure that certified professionals remain at the forefront of data privacy practices.
Objective: To certify HR/Personnel professionals in effectively managing, processing, and protecting personal data in compliance with global data protection regulations/laws.
Benefits of PDPS Certification:
o Compliance Assurance: Demonstrates adherence to global data protection laws.
o Enhanced Expertise: Specialized knowledge in HR/Personnel-specific data protection practices.
o Career Advancement: Recognized credential for career progression in HR/Personnel and compliance roles.
o Organizational Trust: Instills confidence among stakeholders regarding Personnel/HR's commitment to data privacy.
Certification Requirements:
1. Prerequisites:
o Minimum qualification: Bachelor's degree in HR/Personnel management or related field.
o At least 2 years of experience in HR/Personnel roles involving personal data handling.
2. Training Requirements:
o Completion of an accredited training program covering key aspects of data protection regulations and best practices specific to HR/Personnel operations.
o Certification Training include modules on relevant laws/regulations, focusing on Personnel/HR's role in compliance.
3. Examination:
o Comprehensive exam assessing knowledge of data protection laws, HR/Personnel-specific data management practices, and ethical considerations.
o Practical scenarios to test application of knowledge in real-world HR/Personnel situations.
4. Certification Renewal:
o Biennial renewal requiring completion of continuing professional development (CPDs) or equivalent activities to ensure ongoing competence and awareness of regulatory updates.
Training/Course Outline for Personnel Data Protection Specialist - (PDPS®) Certification
This outline offers a meticulously crafted framework for an internationally recognized certification program designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled HR/Personnel professionals in data protection practices. It ensures that PDPS certification equips HR/Personnel professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively navigate the emerging and complex data protection challenges. Emphasizing practical application through case studies, preparing them to uphold ethical standards while managing sensitive employee data.
Module 1: Introduction to Data Protection
o Overview of data protection principles and regulatory landscape.
o HR's role in data protection and compliance frameworks.
Module 2: Legal Frameworks and Compliance
o Role of Data Protection Laws/Regulations.
o Understanding legal requirements for data collection, processing, and storage.
Module 3: HR/Personnel Data Lifecycle Management
o Data collection and processing practices in HR operations.
o Best practices for data retention, disposal, and managing data breaches.
Module 4: Implementing Data Protection in HR Processes
o Integrating data protection measures into recruitment, payroll, and performance management processes.
o Role-based access controls and encryption techniques.
Module 5: Employee Awareness and Training
o Strategies for promoting a culture of data protection within the organization.
o Conducting effective training sessions and awareness campaigns.
Module 6: Case Studies and Practical Applications
o Analyzing case studies and real-world scenarios in HR/Personnel data protection.
o Practical exercises on conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and managing data incidents.
Module 7: Ethical Considerations and Professional Standards
o Ethical handling of sensitive HR/Personnel data (e.g., health records, disciplinary actions).
o Professional standards for HR/Personnel professionals in data protection.
Module 8: Regulatory Updates and Future Trends
o Keeping abreast of evolving data protection laws and industry trends.
o Strategies for adapting HR/Personnel practices to future regulatory changes.
Personnel Data Protection Specialist - (PDPS®) Certification
Compulsory Stages
The general Personnel Data Protection Specialist program consist of eight (8) modules plus one optional module (Law/Regulation):
* Personnel Data Protection Specialist - 8 Modules
OPTIONAL MODULES
The options for Law/Regulation for candidates pursuing certification as Personnel Data Protection Specialist (PDPS) are as follows:
* NDPA - Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023
* POPIA - Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013
* Ghana Data Protection Act 2018
* GDPR - General Data Protection Regulation
* CCPA - California Consumer Privacy Act