Health and Safety NVQs

These NVQs are assessed online and based entirely on your normal work on site. You’ll take part in practical, structured professional discussions with your assessor over Zoom and provide evidence of the supervision you carry out day to day. There is no written coursework, no exams and no classroom attendance, and most candidates find the process straightforward because it’s built around what you already do in your role.

When you click the “Book Your NVQ Now” button on any NVQ page, you’ll be taken to a short online profiling form so we can confirm the qualification matches your current job role. After you submit it, an assessor will give you a quick call to make sure the NVQ is achievable for you based on your experience and responsibilities.

If everything is suitable, we’ll send over an invoice. The profiling stage is completely non-committal — if you decide not to continue, you can simply ignore the invoice. If you do want to go ahead, you can make payment and start your NVQ the same day.

If everything is suitable, we’ll send over an invoice. The profiling stage is completely non-committal — if you decide not to continue, you can simply ignore the invoice. If you do want to go ahead, you can make payment and start your NVQ the same day.

Your NVQ is based entirely on the work you already do. Evidence normally includes audits, inspections, RAMS, incident investigations, toolbox talks, training delivery, policy review, committee meetings, site documentation and daily health and safety communications.

You will also complete structured professional discussions on Zoom. These allow you to explain your decision making, experience and management responsibilities in a clear and supported way.

Evidence must be recent and show how you manage risk, compliance, safety performance and communication across your organisation.

Most experienced candidates complete their NVQ within 4 to 12 weeks, depending on how quickly evidence is provided and professional discussions are arranged. You will have up to 12 months to finish if you need longer, but most candidates complete well within the first few weeks.

You will have up to 12 months to finish the qualification if you need more time, although most candidates complete much sooner.

Both qualifications are highly respected, but they are very different.

NEBOSH Diploma
• Exam based
• Classroom or self-study
• Lots of written assignments
• Tests knowledge rather than competence
• Takes many months to complete

NVQ Level 6 or 7
• No exams
• No written coursework
• Based entirely on your real job
• Completed through professional discussions and evidence
• Faster for experienced professionals
• A direct route to IOSH membership (CertIOSH or CMIOSH depending on your level)

If you already work in health and safety and have good experience, the NVQ is usually the more practical and faster option.

You will have up to 12 months to finish the qualification if you need more time, although most candidates complete much sooner.

Once you complete your NVQ you can apply directly to IOSH for professional membership. The process is simple and done online.

Step 1: Create an IOSH online account
Visit the IOSH website and register for membership.

Step 2: Upload your CV
IOSH requires an up to date CV that outlines your current role, responsibilities and experience in health and safety.

Step 3: Upload your NVQ certificate
Provide a clear copy of your NVQ Level 6 or Level 7 certificate. Both qualifications are recognised by IOSH as meeting the academic requirement for Technical Membership leading to CertIOSH.

Step 4: Pay the IOSH membership fee
Once your documents are approved, IOSH will confirm your membership grade.