“Everything started to click”

Shane works for Biocomposites as a health and safety coordinator. It’s a role, he says, that spans a wide range of responsibilities.

“We operate across manufacturing, laboratories, offices, warehousing and logistics, which presents a variety of challenges and learning opportunities. I also oversee fire safety for the company.”

To equip himself better for his job, Shane needed a qualification that covered many different aspects of health and safety practice. He found out about the IOSH Level 3 qualification and saw that it matched his needs.

Initial challenges and turning point

At the start of the course, there were some difficulties that Shane faced and had to overcome. “I really doubted myself. After the first day, I felt overwhelmed – I couldn’t recall anything I’d learned, which made me question whether I’d be able to pass the exams.”

But Shane stuck to his task. Tony, a trainer from ADL Health and Safety (one of IOSH’s approved study centres for the Level 3 Certificate), delivered the content in a clear and engaging way. In the end, Shane found that he needn’t have worried. “Once I got past that initial hurdle, everything started to click, especially with how the scenarios were presented and how our learning was reinforced.”

Support from the employer

Shane is grateful for the support that he has received from his employer. With the company’s full backing, he was allowed to attend the 10-day course in Liverpool without needing to juggle work responsibilities. “This made a huge difference, as I could fully focus on the course and absorb the material.”

Shane’s manager, David Hill, speaks highly of the difference the qualification has made to Shane. “Since achieving his Level 3 IOSH qualification, Shane has gone from strength to strength in his role as health and safety coordinator. I’ve seen a transformation not only in his technical ability but also in his confidence within role.

“Shane has taken on new challenges with real enthusiasm. He’s now delivering training sessions to small groups across various departments, showing an ability to engage and educate staff at all levels. His communication skills have grown significantly, and it’s clear he’s gaining the respect of his colleagues in his new role.

“He’s currently working on developing a robust safety system for the business and his commitment to continuous improvement is evident in everything he does. One of his recent projects has been the creation of an induction booklet for visitors – a great example of his initiative and attention to detail.”

What the qualification provides

Shane believes that he has benefitted hugely by studying and gaining the qualification. “It has truly broadened my perspective on health and safety. Before the course, like many people, I only saw the basics – accidents involving machinery or falls from height. I didn’t even know about DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations) until I studied it. The course opened my eyes to the depth and complexity of occupational safety and health.”

Applying what has been learned

IOSH’s qualifications place great emphasis on the practice (rather than merely the theory) of workplace safety and health. It’s important, with any training, that the learning is put into action, otherwise it is easily forgotten or left unused.

“One of the first things I implemented after returning to work was a young-person risk assessment. We had a 16-year-old apprentice, and no one had realised that a specific assessment was required. Thanks to the course, I was able to identify and address this gap immediately.” This outcome was of benefit to the business straight away.

Looking ahead

Since gaining the Certificate, Shane has upgraded his membership status to TechIOSH. Now he is setting his sights on learning more. “My focus is on building real-world experience,” he says. “I see this as the beginning of my journey – learning how to apply health and safety principles effectively in the workplace. In the future, I aim to pursue the IOSH Level 6 Diploma and ultimately work toward Chartered status.”

Final thoughts

Shane has a strong message for anyone considering the IOSH Level 3 qualification. Simply, he says, “go for it. It’s well-structured, content-rich and incredibly valuable for both personal and professional development.”