Do Employers Acknowledge IOSH Working Safely?
A foundational understanding of health and safety is crucial for every employee, in just about every industry. The IOSH Working Safely course is designed to provide exactly that: a basic, but essential, grasp on fundamental health and safety principles for the workplace. But do employers acknowledge this qualification?
In today’s blog, we’ll look at why employers respect the IOSH, the importance of health and safety training for the workplace, the core content of Working Safely, and more.
The Importance of Foundational Safety Training
Employers recognise that a proactive approach to safety begins with every individual. Foundational safety training ensures that all employees understand their basic responsibilities, common workplace hazards, and how to work safely. This knowledge is critical for preventing accidents, reducing incidents, and fostering a culture where safety is everyone’s concern. It’s the baseline understanding that supports all other safety initiatives within an organisation.
The Wide Recognition of IOSH Working Safely
The IOSH holds wide recognition and respect among employers across various sectors, not just construction. IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) is the world’s largest professional body for health and safety, and their qualifications are synonymous with quality training. Employers value it as clear proof that an individual has received credible, consistent basic safety training.
Enhancing Workplace Safety Culture
Beyond just individual competence, the IOSH contributes significantly to a stronger overall workplace safety culture. If the majority of employees at a particular organisation have completed the course, it means they’ll have a shared understanding of safety protocols, and of their responsibilities to maintain that safety culture. This would ideally lead to better communication when it comes to hazard awareness, and encourage safer work practices.
The Practical Focus of IOSH Working Safely
Employers particularly acknowledge the practical focus of the IOSH. Unlike purely theoretical courses, it emphasises real-world scenarios and teaches delegates how to apply safety principles in their daily tasks. The course covers crucial areas such as hazard spotting, risk assessment basics, and understanding different types of safety signs. This practical relevance means that certified individuals can immediately contribute to a safer environment, demonstrating tangible skills rather than just memorised facts. This hands-on applicability is a key reason for its strong employer endorsement.
A Stepping Stone for Further Development
For individuals, Working Safely serves as an excellent stepping stone for further professional development in health and safety. While a foundational course, it can spark an interest in deeper safety knowledge, potentially leading to more advanced qualifications like the IOSH Managing Safely or even NEBOSH Certificates for those aiming for dedicated safety roles. Employers typically appreciate this commitment to continuous learning.
Conclusion: Do Employers Acknowledge IOSH Working Safely?
Most employers acknowledge, and place great value on, the IOSH qualification. It’s a widely respected qualification that provides essential, foundational health and safety knowledge, for all levels of the workforce. By demonstrating a commitment to understanding the key risks in the workplace, candidates who undertake the IOSH are both enhancing their employability, and contributing to a stronger safety culture, wherever they might work.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
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