IOSH Courses: Which One Should You Take?

If you work in health and safety, you’ve probably heard of IOSH. It’s one of the most well-known health and safety organisations in the UK, and its courses are recognised across a wide range of industries. Whether you’re an employee who wants to work more safely, a manager who needs to understand health and safety regulations, or a senior leader responsible for workplace safety at a high level, there’s likely an IOSH course that matches your needs… but which one should you take? The answer depends on your role, responsibilities, and career goals. Some IOSH courses are designed for general awareness, while others are more in-depth, focusing on leadership and compliance.

If you’re not sure which course is right for you, today’s blog will be breaking down the different IOSH courses available, and help you to make the best choice for your career.

IOSH Courses

What is IOSH and Why Might it Matter for Your Career?

IOSH stands for the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. It’s a professional body that sets standards for health and safety training. Its courses are very widely recognised, both in the UK and across the rest of the world. They’re designed to help individuals, and entire businesses, maintain safer working environments.

An IOSH qualification doesn’t just help with compliance. It also shows that you take health and safety seriously. Employers value these certifications because they prove that you understand workplace risks and know how to prevent accidents.

If you’re working in construction, manufacturing, or any other industry that’s inherently high-risk, an IOSH course can make a huge difference. It can improve workplace safety, reduce accidents, and even help with career progression. Some employers even make IOSH training mandatory, particularly for managers and supervisors.

But with more than one IOSH course available, it’s not always obvious which one you should choose.

The IOSH Courses Available

The main two IOSH courses that most people consider, both of which are provided by CST Training, include:

The courses are designed for different levels of responsibility.

IOSH Working Safely

If you work in a hands-on role and just need a basic understanding of health and safety, this will probably be the course for you.

It’s designed for employees who don’t have management responsibilities, but who still need to know how to work safely. The course covers key topics like hazard identification, risk assessments, and workplace safety procedures.

It’s a good choice if you’re looking for an entry-level health and safety qualification. It won’t qualify you for a managerial role, but it will show that you understand how to minimise risks in the workplace. Many employers require their staff to complete this course as part of their training.

It’s a short course. It takes just one day to complete. Once you pass, you’ll receive an official IOSH certificate.

IOSH Managing Safely

If you’re a supervisor, manager, or team leader, this is going to be the course you need.

IOSH Managing Safely is one of the most popular health and safety courses in the UK. It’s designed for people in management roles who need to understand their responsibilities when it comes to health and safety.

This course goes beyond basic awareness. It teaches you how to manage risks, conduct safety inspections, and ensure that your team is working in a safe environment. It also covers legal responsibilities, so you know what’s expected of you from a compliance perspective.

If you manage a team, this course will often be a requirement. Many companies make it mandatory for their managers and supervisors.

The course takes just three to four days to complete, and once you pass, you’ll receive an IOSH Managing Safely certificate. This qualification can help with career progression, especially if you’re looking to move into a more senior role.

Which IOSH Course is Best for You?

The right course depends on your job role. If you’re not sure which one to take, here’s a simple breakdown:

If you’re an employee who just needs basic health and safety awareness, take IOSH Working Safely
If you’re a supervisor or manager responsible for workplace safety, take IOSH Managing Safely

Each course is designed for a different level of responsibility. If you choose the right one, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to work safely and confidently in your role.

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How Long Do IOSH Courses Take?

Most IOSH courses are short. Unlike some qualifications that take months to complete, these can be done in a matter of days.

IOSH Working Safely – 1 day
IOSH Managing Safely – 3 to 4 days

Since these courses are designed to be completed quickly, they’re a great option if you need a qualification fast. Many training providers also offer online options, allowing you to complete the course at your own pace.

Are IOSH Courses Recognised Internationally?

Yes. While IOSH is a UK-based organisation, its courses are recognised in many countries. Employers across Europe, the Middle East, and other regions value IOSH qualifications.

If you work in a global company or plan to move abroad, having an IOSH certification can be a big advantage. It proves that you have the necessary health and safety knowledge, no matter where you’re working.

Can You Take IOSH Courses Online?

Yes. Many training providers offer online IOSH courses. This means you can complete your training from home or work, without having to travel to a classroom. Online IOSH courses typically include video lessons, interactive modules, and digital assessments. You’ll still cover all the essential topics, but you won’t need to attend a classroom.

The content is exactly the same as in-person courses- the quality of the course is in no way compromised. You’ll still receive an official IOSH certificate once you pass, and this certificate will be no different in the eyes of employers.

What Happens After You Complete an IOSH Course?

Once you pass your IOSH course, you’ll receive a certificate. This is your official proof that you’ve completed the training.

For some jobs, completing an IOSH course is a requirement. If your employer has asked you to take the course, you may need to provide your certificate as evidence.

If you’re using the qualification to boost your career, it’s a good idea to add it to your CV, and potentially to your LinkedIn profile as well. Many employers look for IOSH-certified candidates when hiring for health and safety-related roles, so make sure it’s clear from your credentials that you’ve obtained this qualification. It could make all the difference when you’re on the job market.

What if You Need to Take a More Advanced Qualification?

While IOSH training is a great starting point, some industries require more in-depth health and safety qualifications. If you’re planning to work in a highly regulated environment, you might need to go beyond IOSH and look at other certifications.

For example, if you work in construction, the CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) might be a better fit. This course is specifically designed for construction managers, and covers industry-specific risks in much greater detail.

If you want to become a health and safety officer or advisor, you might need a NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) qualification. NEBOSH courses go deeper than IOSH courses, and are often required for more senior health and safety roles.

That being said, an IOSH qualification is still a great way to build your knowledge and demonstrate that you take health and safety seriously. Many people start with an IOSH course before moving on to more advanced training.

No matter where you are in your career, having an IOSH certificate on your CV can help. It shows employers that you’re committed to workplace safety, and it can open up new opportunities in your industry.

Do Employers Recognise IOSH Qualifications?

IOSH qualifications are widely recognised across various industries, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and office-based environments. Employers value them because they demonstrate a solid understanding of health and safety principles.

For many roles, having an IOSH certificate can make a real difference. Some companies require employees to hold an IOSH qualification before taking on supervisory or managerial responsibilities. Others see it as a strong addition to a CV, proving that a candidate takes workplace safety seriously.

If you’re looking to boost your job prospects or progress in your career, an IOSH qualification can be a great investment.

Conclusion (IOSH Courses: Which One Should You Take?)

Choosing the right IOSH course depends on your role and responsibilities. Whether you’re an employee, manager, or senior leader, there’s going to be an IOSH qualification that matches your needs.

If you need a simple health and safety awareness course, IOSH Working Safely is the best choice. If you’re responsible for managing risks and ensuring compliance, IOSH Managing Safely is ideal. These courses are widely recognised, easy to complete, and can make a real difference to your career. If you want to improve workplace safety and boost your credentials, taking an IOSH course is a smart move.

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