IOSH
Awarding Organisation (AO)
IOSH is recognised by the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual) as an awarding organisation (AO) for occupational safety and health (OSH) qualifications. The AO is a part of the IOSH charity but is managed and administered by a separate team to further IOSH’s charitable objects.
What we do
Being an awarding organisation is part of our vision for a safer and healthier world of work. The main aim is to develop and recognise the excellence and expertise of OSH professionals to improve global standards in the OSH profession, making sure it is fit for the future.
We’re committed to widening the market for OSH learning, reaching a diverse and global group of learners and providing the right choices for everyone. As part of this, we’ve signed the Federation of Awarding Bodies’ equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) pledge.
The Awarding Organisation is accountable to its own committee and to Ofqual. It is responsible for:
- designing, developing and awarding its regulated qualifications
- approving study centres to deliver its qualifications.
“Upholding the highest professional standards, our qualifications meet the needs of learners across a range of employment contexts. They support your journey into IOSH membership. Our network of approved study centres provides choice and flexibility in where and how you’d like to study.”
Mike Smith
- Company
- Head of IOSH Awarding Organisation
Our qualifications
IOSH offers two qualifications globally. They give equal weight to core and behavioural skills, as well as technical knowledge. Assessments are designed to enable professionals to apply this knowledge in a work-related context.
The qualifications align with IOSH’s competency framework. They provide routes into IOSH membership, at Technical and Certified grades. Find out more about progressing through the IOSH membership grades.
The IOSH Level 3 Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health Principles and Practice is designed to provide you an excellent grounding in OSH knowledge and skills. It’s the perfect platform for you at the early stages of your career.
What you learn by studying for the Certificate will equip you to perform confidently in your job.
The IOSH Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health Leadership and Management develops you towards your full potential as an OSH professional.
The Diploma gives you an exceptional basis to improve business performance. When you apply the high levels of OSH competence that you’ll gain, you’ll become an even more valuable asset to your organisation.
Paper certificates
On completion of your qualification, you’ll receive an e-certificate. If you wish, you can request a paper version of your IOSH qualification certificate.
Become a study centre
If you would like to deliver our qualifications, you must first become an IOSH-approved study centre. Find out what this involves and start the process.