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What Next After IOSH Managing Safely?

Completing the IOSH Managing Safely course provides the essential skills needed to manage workplace risks. For many, it also serves as the first step toward a dedicated career in health and safety and/or construction.

If you are looking to build on this foundation, the next step involves moving from general safety management to professional-level qualifications. In this guide, we’ll be taking a look at the most effective progression routes.

The (General) Next Step: NEBOSH National General Certificate

For those with the goal of transitioning from managing safety to becoming a dedicated health and safety professional, the NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety is the industry-recognised next step.

While IOSH provides a solid foundation for managers, the NEBOSH Certificate offers a much deeper dive into health and safety management systems, UK legislation, and the practical application of risk control.

What is Involved?

The course is a comprehensive 10-day programme, typically spread over several weeks to allow for study time. It is equivalent to an NVQ Level 3 or A-Level and is split into two key units:

  • NG1 (Management of Health and Safety): Covers the “how” and “why” of safety management, including legal frameworks and monitoring performance. This is assessed via a one-day open-book examination.
  • NG2 (Risk Assessment): A practical unit where you apply your learning to a real-world workplace. You will submit a detailed risk assessment and action plan as your assessment.

Why Choose this Route?

Achieving this qualification significantly boosts your career prospects and makes you eligible for Technical Membership of IOSH (TechIOSH). It is often the minimum requirement listed for full-time health and safety officer or advisor roles.

How to Apply

At 3B Training, we provide several flexible ways to complete your NEBOSH General Certificate, ensuring the training fits around your professional commitments and preferred learning style.

Public Classroom

If you prefer face-to-face interaction and the structure of a traditional learning environment, we offer public courses at training venues across the country.

These sessions are scheduled throughout the year, offering plenty of options for different locations. Your course fee includes the first sitting of your assessments, so there are no hidden costs.

Online Classroom (Zoom)

Our virtual classroom option allows you to join live, interactive sessions via Zoom from any location.

You will receive the same high-quality instruction from a qualified trainer as you would in a physical classroom, with the ability to engage via video or webchat. This is an ideal choice for those who want real-time learning without the need for travel.

eLearning

For total flexibility, our NEBOSH General Certificate eLearning course allows you to study at your own pace.

You will receive login details to our online portal, where you can work through the modules whenever it suits you. Once completed, you will earn the same respected qualification as those who attend live sessions.

In-house Training

If your organisation has a team (up to 20 delegates) that needs to progress together, we can deliver the training in-house at your premises or one of our venues.

This format is particularly effective as it allows the trainer to tailor discussions specifically to your company’s safety procedures and workplace culture.

View upcoming NEBOSH General Certificate dates and book your place here.

Individuals in NEBOSH jobs completing health and safety checks after a NEBOSH course

Specialising in Construction? Opt for the NEBOSH Health & Safety Management for Construction Certificate

If your career is based in the construction sector, the NEBOSH Health and Safety Management for Construction is the most relevant progression route after IOSH.

As of 2023, this qualification is considered a Level 7, making it a high-level credential for site managers, supervisors, and CDM-responsible professionals.

One of its most significant benefits is that it meets the criteria for the CSCS Academically Qualified Person (AQP) card, or the White Card, which is essential for many senior roles on-site.

What is Involved?

The course spans 10 days and focuses specifically on construction-related hazards, such as demolition, excavation, and working at height. 

Unlike the General Certificate, this course consists of a single unit (CN1: Managing Construction Safely).

The assessment is also different; it is completed via a 48-hour Open Book Examination held remotely. There is no separate practical risk assessment submission, though a short closing interview is conducted after the exam to verify your work.

How to Apply

We offer this construction-specific qualification through several delivery methods to ensure it fits your project schedule:

Public Classroom

Attend the 10-day course in person at one of our nationwide training venues. This is a great way to network with other construction professionals and learn through face-to-face interaction with our expert trainers.

Online Classroom (Zoom)

Join our live virtual classroom sessions from your site office or home. This interactive format provides the same level of support as the classroom but removes the need for travel. We offer both block-release (two weeks) and day-release (one day a week) options to suit your workload.

eLearning

For those who need to fit their studies around a busy site schedule, our self-paced NEBOSH Construction eLearning option allows you to access the course materials 24/7. You can work through the modules at your own speed before sitting the scheduled 48-hour remote exam.

In-house Training

For construction firms looking to upskill their management teams, we can deliver this course in-house. This allows for tailored discussions regarding your specific site safety procedures and company culture.

View upcoming NEBOSH Construction Certificate dates and book your place here.

Specialising in Fire Safety: NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety

If your role involves managing complex buildings, overseeing facilities, or acting as a fire safety lead, the NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety is a powerful next step.

While IOSH Managing Safely introduces basic fire hazards, this qualification provides the technical depth required to conduct thorough fire risk assessments and ensure full legal compliance.

NEBOSH Fire Safety Trained individual defusing a fire

What is involved?

This course is delivered over 4.5 days plus assessments. It is designed to help you protect people, property, and your organisation’s reputation by mastering fire safety management.

  • Focus: You will learn about fire risk assessment, fire safety management systems, and the legal requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
  • Assessment: The qualification is achieved by passing an open-book examination and completing a practical fire risk assessment in your workplace.
  • Cost: The course fee is £775, which includes the first sitting of your assessments.

How to Apply

We offer this specialist training through delivery methods that prioritise interaction and expert guidance:

Online Classroom (Zoom)

Our live, virtual classroom sessions are the most popular way to achieve this certificate. Led by an expert trainer via Zoom, you will engage in real-time discussions and group exercises, ensuring you are fully prepared for the practical risk assessment.

In-house Training

For organisations looking to train multiple managers or fire safety leads, we can deliver this course in-house. This allows your team to focus specifically on the fire safety challenges and evacuation procedures unique to your premises.

View upcoming NEBOSH Fire Safety Certificate dates and book your place here.

Professional Recognition and Long-Term Career Goals

Advancing your qualifications after IOSH Managing Safely isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about your professional standing in the industry. Moving onto a NEBOSH qualification changes how you are perceived by employers and professional bodies.

Achieving TechIOSH Status

One of the most immediate benefits of completing the NEBOSH General Certificate or the NEBOSH Construction Certificate is that it meets the academic requirements for Technical Membership of IOSH (TechIOSH).

This post-nominal after your name is a globally recognised mark of competence. It proves to employers and clients that you have a high level of technical safety knowledge and are committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

The Path to Senior Management: NEBOSH Diploma

For those aiming for strategic, senior-level roles or health and safety consultancy, the ultimate goal is often the NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma.

This is a degree-equivalent qualification that provides the deep technical and legal expertise required to lead safety departments in large organisations.

It is also the primary route to becoming a Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH), the highest tier of professional recognition in the field.

Why Progress with 3B Training?

Choosing where to take your next step is as important as the qualification itself. 3B Training is a NEBOSH Gold Partner, a status awarded only to providers who greatly exceed NEBOSH’s six Learning Excellence Principles.

When you choose one of our NEBOSH training courses, you benefit from:

  • Expert Instruction: Trainers with real-world industry experience.
  • Flexible Learning: Options for classroom, Zoom, or self-paced eLearning.
  • Ongoing Support: We assist with everything from exam registration to technical support during open-book exams.

Take the Next Step in Your Career

The transition from managing safety as a task to managing it as a profession starts with the right qualification. Whether you choose the General, Construction, or Fire route, 3B Training is here to support your development every step of the way.

Ready to advance? Browse our full range of NEBOSH courses and upcoming dates here.

Career Progression After IOSH FAQs

Do I have to complete IOSH Managing Safely before starting a NEBOSH course?

No, there are no formal prerequisites for the NEBOSH General or Construction certificates. However, we highly recommend completing IOSH Managing Safely first.

It provides the essential terminology and foundational concepts that make the transition to the more technical NEBOSH syllabus much smoother.

What is the main difference between IOSH and NEBOSH?

The primary difference is the intended audience and depth of study. IOSH Managing Safely is designed for managers in any department who need to oversee safety as part of their broader role.

NEBOSH qualifications are more academically rigorous and are designed for those building a full-time career as a health and safety professional.

Which NEBOSH course is right for me?

Can I get a CSCS card with a NEBOSH qualification?

Yes. As of 2023, the NEBOSH Health and Safety Management for Construction is a Level 7 qualification. It meets the criteria for the CSCS Academically Qualified Person (AQP) card, which is a significant advantage for managers working on UK construction sites.

Does a NEBOSH Certificate expire?

No. Unlike the IOSH Managing Safely certificate, which requires an IOSH Refresher every three years to stay current, NEBOSH certificates are lifetime qualifications and do not expire.

How difficult is the NEBOSH General Certificate compared to IOSH?

The NEBOSH General Certificate is a step up in terms of depth and workload. While IOSH is an entry-level management course, NEBOSH is equivalent to an NVQ Level 3 (A-Level).

It requires more independent study and a deeper understanding of UK health and safety legislation.

What does it mean that 3B Training is a “NEBOSH Gold Partner”?

NEBOSH Gold Partner status is the highest level of accreditation a training provider can achieve.

It means that 3B Training has been independently verified to greatly exceed NEBOSH’s six Learning Excellence Principles, ensuring you receive the highest quality materials, expert tutors, and student support.

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