Health and Safety

Careers

Today's health and safety professionals are on a mission to protect the workforce by adopting a proactive and preventive stance against issues like injuries, accidents, and equipment failures. Do you possess the qualities to be part of this crucial endeavour?

What’s involved?

A career in health and safety is a natural fit for many individuals transitioning from the Armed Forces, where discipline, risk management, and leadership are core values. Health and safety professionals play a crucial role in protecting lives by ensuring safe working environments and preventing accidents and injuries.

Core Responsibilities: Health and safety roles typically involve developing and implementing policies and procedures to prevent hazardous situations. This often includes:

• Risk Assessment: Identifying potential hazards and evaluating risks in the workplace.
• Compliance: Ensuring adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and standards.
• Training and Education: Providing safety training to employees and raising awareness about safe practices
• Incident Investigation: Investigating accidents to determine causes and prevent future occurrences.
• Environmental Management: Addressing environmental concerns and ensuring sustainable practices are followed.

Career Opportunities: The scope of health and safety careers is broad and versatile. Potential roles include:

• HSE Officer/Advisor: Responsible for implementing safety measures and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Safety Director/Manager: Overseeing the entire safety program within an organisation.
• Environmental Health Officer: Ensuring businesses comply with environmental laws.
• Product Safety Consultant: Ensuring products meet safety standards before entering the market.
• Compliance Investigator: Monitoring adherence to safety regulations within companies.

Legal Obligations: Employers are legally required to appoint 'competent' individuals to manage health and safety responsibilities. Competence is defined by having the necessary experience, training, and knowledge to effectively manage risks. Non-compliance with health and safety laws can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

The day job

A career in health and safety involves a variety of responsibilities aimed at maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. Each day brings new challenges, from conducting thorough inspections to ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. Health and safety professionals are essential in identifying risks, preventing accidents, and promoting a culture of safety across all levels of an organisation.

• Conducting Inspections and Risk Assessments:
  One of the primary duties is to regularly inspect the workplace to identify potential hazards. This includes evaluating equipment, processes, and the work environment to assess risks. The goal is to prevent accidents before they occur by ensuring that all aspects of the workplace meet safety standards.
• Investigating Accidents:
  When incidents do occur, it's crucial to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause. This involves collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analysing what went wrong. The findings are used to implement corrective actions and prevent similar incidents in the future.
• Record-Keeping:
  Accurate and detailed records are vital in the field of health and safety. Professionals must document inspections, risk assessments, and incident reports meticulously. These records not only ensure compliance with legal requirements but also provide a historical account that can be reviewed and analysed for continuous improvement.
• Report Writing:
  Writing clear and concise reports is a critical part of the job. Whether summarising an inspection, detailing the findings of an accident investigation, or recommending safety improvements, these reports must be comprehensive and accessible to all stakeholders, including management and regulatory bodies.
• Advising on Protective Measures:
  Health and safety professionals advise on the appropriate protective measures that should be implemented to mitigate identified risks. This includes recommending personal protective equipment (PPE), implementing safety protocols, and ensuring that safety barriers and signage are in place.
• Equipment Safety:
  Ensuring that all equipment is safe to use is another key responsibility. This includes regular inspections, maintenance checks, and verifying that all machinery complies with safety regulations. Equipment safety is critical to preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth operation of the workplace.
• Hazardous Substance Management:
  Managing hazardous substances involves ensuring that they are stored, handled, and disposed of safely. Professionals must ensure that proper labelling, usage guidelines, and emergency procedures are in place to protect workers from harmful exposure.
• Training Provision:
  Educating and training employees on health and safety practices is an ongoing task. This includes conducting training sessions on the use of PPE, emergency procedures, and specific safety protocols relevant to their roles. Regular training helps to embed a culture of safety within the organisation.
• Staying Informed:
  The field of health and safety is continually evolving, with new regulations, technologies, and best practices emerging regularly. Professionals must stay informed by attending relevant training, participating in professional networks, and keeping up with industry publications to ensure they are applying the most current and effective safety measures.

In summary, the day-to-day work of a health and safety professional is varied and requires a proactive approach to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of everyone in the workplace.

NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

The essential first step to a career in HSE

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Skill up while serving

It's well-known that military personnel often operate in potentially hazardous environments or work with dangerous equipment, making health and safety awareness a critical component of their daily responsibilities. Whether on the front lines, in training, or in support roles, service members routinely engage with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) principles, even if they don’t always explicitly recognise them as such. These experiences build a solid foundation in risk management and safety practices that are directly applicable to civilian careers in health and safety.

For those interested in further developing their HSE expertise while still serving, the military offers a range of modular training courses. These courses can lead to certifications and qualifications that are valuable both within the military and in civilian sectors. The unique skills acquired during military service are highly transferable and can significantly enhance prospects for a successful career in health and safety.

Key Skills Gained in the Armed Forces:

• Risk Assessment Skills: Military personnel are trained to assess and manage risks in a wide variety of challenging environments, from combat zones to technical operations. This experience is highly valued in the health and safety field, where accurate risk assessment is crucial.
• Leadership and Communication: The military places a strong emphasis on leadership and clear communication, both of which are essential in health and safety roles. Effective leadership ensures that safety protocols are followed, while strong communication skills are necessary for training and guiding teams.
• Emergency Response Expertise: Military training includes rigorous preparation for emergency situations. The ability to stay calm under pressure, make quick decisions, and respond effectively to emergencies is a critical skill that translates seamlessly into health and safety positions, particularly in industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
• Adherence to Protocols: The military's focus on strict adherence to protocols and procedures ensures that service members are well-prepared to enforce safety guidelines in civilian roles. This discipline is key to maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations in any workplace.
• Problem-Solving Acumen: Military personnel are often required to think on their feet and solve complex problems with limited resources. This problem-solving ability is vital in health and safety, where professionals must identify potential hazards and develop practical solutions to prevent accidents and injuries.
  
  By recognising and enhancing these skills through targeted training and certification programs, military personnel can not only contribute effectively to the safety and well-being of their comrades during service but also transition into successful civilian careers in health and safety. The skills honed in the military are not just transferable—they are highly sought after in the health and safety profession, making veterans well-suited for these roles.

Finding a Job in Health and Safety 

Pursuing a career in health and safety offers a dynamic and rewarding path, especially for those with a strong commitment to workplace safety and a keen eye for detail. Whether you're transitioning from the Armed Forces or looking to enter the field from another industry, the journey typically begins with obtaining the necessary qualifications and building relevant experience.

Pathways into the Profession:
Aspiring health and safety professionals often enter the field by either completing relevant qualifications, such as NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) certifications, or by studying while already working in a related role. The industry has seen a growing trend where more candidates are entering the profession with degree-level qualifications in occupational health and safety, environmental management, or similar fields, reflecting the increasing professionalisation of the sector.

Key Skills and Qualities:
Employers in health and safety place a high value on interpersonal skills and the ability to manage people effectively. Professionals who can communicate safety procedures clearly and inspire a culture of safety within an organisation are particularly sought after. Additionally, the ability to continuously update and expand one's skill set is crucial. The health and safety landscape is ever-evolving, with new regulations, technologies, and best practices emerging regularly, making lifelong learning a key component of a successful career.

Specialised Skills:
Job seekers who can offer specialised skills, such as in-house training capabilities in areas like manual handling, first aid, or risk assessment, are highly attractive to employers. The demand for 'competent' health and safety professionals, as defined by regulations such as the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, underscores the importance of having the right qualifications and the ability to apply them effectively in the workplace.

Employment Opportunities:
Health and safety roles are diverse and span across various industries. Professionals can find opportunities in small companies where they might be the sole HSE officer, or in larger organisations with dedicated safety teams. Specialised companies that focus on areas like safety audits, engineering surveys, and risk assessments also offer numerous roles. Additionally, the facilities management sector often seeks candidates with health and safety qualifications, recognising the importance of maintaining safe working environments in complex, multi-use facilities.

Training and Development:
Employers increasingly seek health and safety advisers with training qualifications who can assess, design, and deliver comprehensive safety training programs. This capability not only makes candidates more versatile but also enhances their value in a competitive job market.

Opportunities with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE):
For those interested in working with the Health & Safety Executive, recruitment is typically conducted through an online application process. New recruits often undergo extensive training, which may include up to two years in the Field Operations Directorate, with potential for further development within specialised areas like the Hazardous Installations Directorate.

Navigating the job market in health and safety requires a blend of relevant qualifications, strong interpersonal skills, and a dedication to continuous professional development. By staying informed of industry trends and expanding their skill sets, health and safety professionals can position themselves for success in this vital and ever-growing field.

Get qualified!

Transitioning from the British Armed Forces to a career in health and safety is a well-trodden path, as many of the skills acquired during military service are directly applicable to the field. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to qualify for a health and safety career after leaving the forces:

1. Leverage Your Military Experience

• Risk Management: Your experience in risk assessment, hazard identification, and emergency response in various military operations provides a solid foundation for health and safety roles.
• Leadership and Communication: The leadership, communication, and people management skills developed during service are highly valued in health and safety positions, where guiding teams and enforcing safety protocols are key responsibilities.
• Adherence to Protocols: Military personnel are trained to follow strict procedures, a quality that aligns perfectly with the compliance-focused nature of health and safety roles.

2. Obtain Relevant Qualifications

• NEBOSH Qualifications: Consider starting with the NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, which is widely recognised and provides a strong grounding in health and safety management. For more advanced roles, you might pursue the NEBOSH Diploma.
• IOSH Membership: The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) offers membership levels (Affiliate, Associate, Technical, Graduate, and Chartered) that correspond to your experience and qualifications. Completing the IOSH Managing Safely course can also be a good starting point.
• Additional Certifications: Depending on your career goals, consider other certifications like the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, particularly if you aim to work in construction or related industries.

3. Consider ELCAS Funding

• Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC): As a service leaver, you may be eligible for ELCAS funding to cover the cost of health and safety training courses. These credits can be used towards NEBOSH, IOSH, and other relevant qualifications, easing the financial burden of reskilling.

4. Gain Practical Experience

• Work Placements or Internships: While still in service, consider applying for work placements or internships in health and safety to gain practical experience. This hands-on experience is invaluable and can make you more competitive in the job market.
• Volunteering: Engage in volunteering opportunities that involve health and safety responsibilities. This could be in community organisations, local businesses, or even within military events.

5. Network with Industry Professionals

• Attend Industry Events: Engage with health and safety professionals by attending seminars, workshops, and networking events. Organisations like IOSH often host events that can provide insights into the industry and opportunities to meet potential employers.
• Join Professional Bodies: Joining professional bodies like IOSH or the British Safety Council can provide access to resources, job boards, and professional development opportunities.

6. Utilize Career Transition Services

• CTP Assistance: The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) offers workshops, resettlement training, and one-on-one guidance to help you transition into civilian employment, including roles in health and safety. Take advantage of these services to refine your CV, improve your interview skills, and explore job opportunities.
• Networking with Fellow Veterans: Connect with other veterans who have successfully transitioned into health and safety roles. They can offer advice, mentorship, and possibly even job leads.

7. Apply for Jobs

• Tailored CV and Cover Letter: Highlight your military experience, especially your risk management, leadership, and safety-related skills, in your CV and cover letter. Tailor your application to the specific requirements of each job.
• Targeted Job Search: Look for entry-level positions, such as Health and Safety Assistant or Coordinator, to get your foot in the door. Use job boards, recruitment agencies specialising in health and safety, and veteran-focused employment services to find opportunities.

NEBOSH: A Gateway to a Career in Health and Safety
The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) is a globally recognised organisation that provides qualifications in health, safety, and environmental management. Established in 1979, NEBOSH has become one of the most respected and widely sought-after certifications for professionals in the health and safety field, making it a key credential for those looking to advance or start a career in this area.

What is NEBOSH?
NEBOSH offers a range of qualifications that cater to different levels of experience and expertise, from introductory certificates to advanced diplomas. These qualifications are designed to provide learners with the knowledge and skills needed to manage health and safety risks effectively in the workplace, ensure compliance with regulations, and promote a culture of safety.

Key NEBOSH Qualifications

• NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety: This is one of the most popular and widely recognised NEBOSH qualifications. It provides a comprehensive overview of health and safety principles, making it an excellent starting point for those new to the field or those who want to formalise their experience with a recognised credential. The course covers topics such as risk assessment, accident prevention, and the responsibilities of health and safety professionals.
• NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety: This is a more advanced qualification aimed at professionals who wish to progress to a senior role in health and safety management. The diploma covers in-depth topics, including health and safety law, risk management, and occupational health, and it is considered a key qualification for those aspiring to become chartered members of professional bodies such as IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health).
• NEBOSH International General Certificate: Similar to the National General Certificate but with a focus on international standards and practices, this qualification is ideal for professionals working in multinational organisations or in countries outside of the UK.
• NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management: This qualification is designed for those who have fire safety responsibilities in their workplace. It covers the principles of fire risk management, including how to carry out fire risk assessments and ensure that adequate fire safety measures are in place.
• NEBOSH Environmental Management Certificate: For those interested in environmental management alongside health and safety, this qualification provides knowledge on managing environmental risks, implementing effective environmental management systems, and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation.

Why NEBOSH?

• Global Recognition: NEBOSH qualifications are recognised by employers and professional bodies around the world. They are often seen as a benchmark for best practice in health and safety, making them highly valuable for career advancement.
• Career Advancement: Holding a NEBOSH qualification can significantly enhance your employability and open up opportunities for progression in the health and safety field. Many employers require or prefer candidates with NEBOSH qualifications, especially for roles that involve managing health and safety systems or leading teams.
• Professional Development: NEBOSH courses are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge that can be applied in the workplace. They also prepare candidates for further professional development, such as becoming a Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH) or joining other professional bodies.
• Flexible Learning: NEBOSH qualifications can be pursued through various learning methods, including classroom-based courses, online learning, and distance education. This flexibility allows learners to study at their own pace and balance their education with work or other commitments.

NEBOSH for Armed Forces Personnel

For individuals leaving the Armed Forces, NEBOSH qualifications offer an excellent pathway to a civilian career in health and safety. The structured, disciplined approach learned in the military aligns well with the skills needed to succeed in health and safety roles. Furthermore, service members can often utilise funding such as Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) to cover the cost of NEBOSH courses, making it an accessible option for many.

NEBOSH National Diploma for Occupational Health and Safety Management Professionals

Seen as 'the' qualification for aspiring HSE management professionals

IOSH 

IOSH is a chartered body that represents and supports health and safety professionals across all sectors. Its mission is to create a world of work that is safe, healthy, and sustainable. To achieve this, IOSH provides a range of services including membership, training, professional development, and advocacy.

IOSH Membership
IOSH membership is open to individuals at all stages of their health and safety careers, from newcomers to seasoned professionals. There are several membership categories, each reflecting the level of experience and qualifications of the individual:

•  Affiliate Member: Open to anyone with an interest in health and safety, regardless of experience or qualifications. It's an entry-level membership that provides access to IOSH resources and networks.
• Associate Member (AIOSH): For those who have gained some formal qualifications in health and safety, such as the IOSH Managing Safely course, or equivalent.
• Technical Member (Tech IOSH): For professionals who have achieved a recognised health and safety qualification, such as a NEBOSH General Certificate, and have relevant experience in the field.
• Graduate Member (Grad IOSH): For individuals who have completed a degree-level qualification in health and safety or a related field. This is often a stepping stone towards becoming a Chartered Member.
• Chartered Member (CMIOSH): The highest level of IOSH membership, Chartered status is recognised as the gold standard in the profession. It requires significant experience, qualifications, and a commitment to continuing professional development (CPD).
• Chartered Fellow (CFIOSH): This is for those who have been Chartered Members for at least five years and have made a significant contribution to the profession.

IOSH Training and Qualifications

IOSH offers a range of training courses that cater to different levels of experience and areas of interest:

• IOSH Managing Safely: This is one of the most popular IOSH courses and is designed for managers and supervisors in any organization. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to manage health and safety effectively in the workplace.
• IOSH Working Safely: Aimed at all employees, this course covers the essentials of health and safety, helping workers to understand their responsibilities and how to keep themselves and others safe.
• IOSH Leading Safely: This course is designed for senior leaders and executives, providing them with the insights needed to lead on health and safety within their organizations.

These courses are delivered by approved training providers around the world and are recognised by employers as evidence of a commitment to maintaining high standards of health and safety.

IOSH for Armed Forces Personnel
For those transitioning from the Armed Forces, IOSH membership and qualifications can be a valuable asset. The structured, disciplined approach ingrained in military service is highly compatible with the requirements of health and safety roles. Many ex-service personnel find that IOSH courses, particularly IOSH Managing Safely, provide an excellent foundation for a new career in this field. Furthermore, IOSH's network of professionals offers valuable support and opportunities for career development.

Other qualifications

When pursuing a career in health and safety, several key qualifications can significantly enhance your expertise and employability. Beyond NEBOSH and IOSH, the British Safety Council (BSC) offers widely recognised qualifications such as the Level 2 and Level 3 Awards in Health and Safety in the Workplace, which provide a solid foundation for those new to the field. For more advanced professionals, the BSC’s International Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health offers comprehensive training in managing workplace hazards and developing safety policies, making it ideal for those looking to work in senior roles or in international settings.

City & Guilds is another respected provider, known for its practical, vocational qualifications. Their Level 3 Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety is well-suited for individuals looking to develop core skills in managing workplace safety. For those aiming for higher-level positions, the Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice emphasises practical, on-the-job competence, making it highly relevant for those already working in the field.

The Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) offer qualifications that blend health and safety with environmental management. IEMA’s Foundation Certificate and Diploma in Sustainable Business Practice cater to professionals interested in integrating sustainability with safety practices. Meanwhile, CIEH’s qualifications range from basic introductions to advanced awards, preparing professionals for both generalist and specialist roles in environmental health and safety.
NVQ Diplomas in Occupational Health and Safety are particularly valuable for their competency-based approach, allowing professionals to demonstrate their practical abilities in real-world settings. These diplomas, available at various levels, cater to both newcomers and seasoned professionals, offering pathways to advance within the health and safety field by focusing on practical application and workplace performance.

Use your ELC

Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of learning can be taken, provided it is offered by an approved provider listed on the ELC website and is at level 3 or above. For full details of how to make the most of your ELC, refer to the in-depth features elsewhere on this website.

NEBOSH OPEN-BOOK EXAMS

NEBOSH has adopted a new approach to enable its learners to carry out their assessments from a location of their choice. Its National and International General Certificates were the first qualifications to offer remote assessment, and open-book exams have been taking place since August 2020. An open-book examination enables learners to take exams in a safe location of their choosing. The approach also has the added benefit of enabling people in even more countries around the world to study towards and gain a NEBOSH qualification.

Unlike invigilated paper-based exams, NEBOSH’s open-book examinations present learners with a real-life scenario followed by a related series of questions that require them to demonstrate the application of their skills. 

Further information, including a selection of guidance and support resources, is available here.

HEALTH & SAFETY APPRENTICESHIPS
Opportunities available in this sector include the Health, Safety and Environment Technician apprenticeship. Alternatively, use your favourite search engine to discover more options. Or browse the government’s apprenticeship website or Find Apprenticeships, both of which allow you to search for apprenticeship opportunities by area of interest and location.

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