If you’re considering health and safety training, you may be asking: is IOSH a good qualification and which course is right for me? Let’s explore why IOSH is valued across industries and how it can support both career development and your business’s compliance.
Why IOSH qualifications matter
IOSH qualifications are recognised worldwide as a benchmark for health and safety competence. They are designed to:
- Improve safety awareness among employees and managers
- Strengthen compliance with UK legislation and international standards
- Enhance career prospects by demonstrating professional credibility
For organisations, IOSH training shows a clear commitment to protecting staff and meeting legal duties. For individuals, it provides practical skills that are transferable across sectors.
Is IOSH Managing Safely a Level 3 qualification?
No. IOSH Managing Safely is considered a Level 2 qualification within the UK framework. It provides a strong foundation for managers and supervisors who need to take responsibility for health and safety but do not require the depth of a NEBOSH Level 3 qualification.
Think of IOSH Managing Safely as the ideal starting point for leaders who want confidence in managing risks without the complexity of higher‑level study.
Which IOSH course is best?
The best IOSH course depends on your role and responsibilities:
- IOSH Leading Safely® – For directors and senior managers who need to shape organisational strategy.
- IOSH Managing Safely® – For managers and supervisors who oversee day‑to‑day safety.
- IOSH Managing Safely® Refresher – For those who completed Managing Safely and need to update knowledge every three years.
- IOSH Working Safely® – For employees at all levels who need essential safety awareness.
Each course is practical, concise, and tailored to real workplace scenarios. Choosing the right one ensures training is relevant and effective.
Is IOSH a good qualification for career development?
Absolutely. IOSH qualifications are widely recognised by employers and professional bodies. They help individuals:
- Demonstrate competence and credibility in health and safety
- Stand out in job applications and promotions
- Build confidence in managing risks and responsibilities
A practical career example
For many professionals, IOSH Managing Safely is the point where health and safety becomes part of their formal skill set rather than an informal responsibility. For example, a team leader or supervisor who completes the course can confidently take ownership of risk assessments, incident reporting, and safe working practices. This often positions them as a trusted point of contact for health and safety within their team.
From there, IOSH can support progression into more senior roles. Managers with IOSH training are often better prepared for operational leadership roles, project management positions, or responsibilities that involve compliance and people management. For some, IOSH Managing Safely also acts as a stepping stone towards more advanced qualifications, such as NEBOSH, if they choose to specialise further in health and safety. For organisations, IOSH training supports compliance, reduces incidents, and fosters a positive safety culture.
Why choose Ouch for IOSH training?
At Ouch Learning and Development, we deliver IOSH courses that are clear, practical, and expert‑led. Our trainers:
- Provide real‑world examples that make learning relevant
- Ensure content is jargon‑free and easy to apply
- Support your organisation in meeting compliance requirements with confidence
Ready to explore IOSH training for your team? Let’s talk about which course best fits your needs.
References
For further reading and official guidance:
HSE: Health and safety training guidance