The Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice is designed for health and safety professionals who wish to gain a deeper, more advanced understanding of their role and responsibilities. This qualification provides learners with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to manage and oversee health and safety activities at a strategic level within an organization.

Unlike traditional academic qualifications, the Level 6 NVQ is based on practical, real-world experience. It focuses on the competencies needed to handle complex health and safety challenges and lead organizational efforts to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees. The diploma also helps learners build the confidence and expertise to drive improvements in safety culture, conduct risk assessments, and manage compliance with national and international health and safety regulations.

Course Overview

The Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice is a competence-based qualification. This means that, instead of traditional exams, learners demonstrate their competency through workplace-based assessments, case studies, and practical tasks. The qualification is structured to ensure that learners gain a thorough understanding of OHS management and can apply this knowledge effectively in their roles.

The course is ideal for professionals who are already working in occupational health and safety roles, such as health and safety advisors, managers, or officers, and who are looking to enhance their practical and strategic skills. This qualification is recognized by various industry bodies, including the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), and is often required for senior roles in health and safety management.

Course Study Units

Control Health and Safety Risks Develop and Implement Effective Communication Systems for Health and Safety Information Develop and Implement Health and Safety Emergency Response Systems and Procedures Develop and Implement Health and Safety Induction Processes Develop and Implement Health and Safety Review Systems Develop and Implement the Health and Safety Policy Develop and Maintain Individual and Organisational Competence in Health and Safety Matters Develop, Implement and Monitor Behavioural Safety in the Workplace Develop, Implement and Review Proactive Monitoring Systems for Health and Safety Develop, Implement and Review Reactive Monitoring Systems for Health and Safety Influence and Keep Pace with Improvements in Health and Safety Practice Manage Contractors to Ensure Compliance with Health and Safety Promote a Positive Health and Safety Culture

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of the Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice, learners will have gained a comprehensive understanding of health and safety management and will be able to:

Implement Health and Safety Management Systems: Develop and manage effective health and safety policies, systems, and procedures tailored to the specific needs of the organization. Conduct Risk Assessments: Identify, evaluate, and control hazards in the workplace through thorough risk assessments and hazard control strategies. Ensure Compliance: Advise on and implement compliance with health and safety regulations and standards, ensuring that the organization meets all legal requirements. Accident Investigation: Lead investigations into workplace accidents, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent future incidents. Enhance Safety Culture: Foster a proactive and positive health and safety culture by engaging staff and promoting the importance of safety at all levels of the organization. Respond to Emergencies: Develop and implement effective emergency response plans to ensure employees' safety in various scenarios. Develop Leadership Skills: Take on a strategic leadership role in health and safety management, influencing key decision-makers and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

Who is This Course For?

The Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice is suitable for professionals who already have a foundational understanding of health and safety and are looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in this area. It is particularly well-suited for:

Health and Safety Managers and Officers: Professionals who are responsible for managing health and safety across an organization and who need to develop their competence in strategic safety management. Safety Advisors: Individuals who provide advice and support to organizations in ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. HSE (Health, Safety, and Environmental) Professionals: Those working in industries like construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or logistics, where occupational health and safety are of paramount importance. Risk Managers: Individuals with a focus on identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks within the organization. Those Seeking Career Advancement: Anyone looking to move into more senior or specialized health and safety roles, such as Head of Health and Safety or HSE Director.

Course Future Progression

The Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice opens several pathways for career advancement and further professional development, including:

Senior Health and Safety Roles: This qualification qualifies you to take on senior health and safety roles within an organization, such as Health and Safety Manager, Head of Health and Safety, or Health and Safety Director. It also prepares you for managerial positions where health and safety is a key focus, such as Risk Manager or Environmental Health Officer.

Specialized Health and Safety Qualifications: After completing the NVQ, you can continue your professional development by pursuing advanced qualifications such as the NEBOSH Diploma, which is widely recognized in the health and safety sector. You could also pursue specialized certifications in areas such as Fire Safety, Environmental Management, or Construction Safety.

Professional Membership: Upon successful completion of the Level 6 NVQ, you may be eligible to apply for Graduate Membership (GradIOSH) with the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), a prestigious professional body for health and safety practitioners. This membership can enhance your career prospects and offer networking opportunities with other health and safety professionals.

Consultancy and Training: Experienced professionals may choose to start their own consultancy firm or become health and safety trainers, offering expertise to various organizations and industries.

Teaching and Academia: If you’re interested in education, you could also pursue opportunities in teaching occupational health and safety at further or higher education institutions.

Conclusion

The Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice is a comprehensive qualification for professionals who are looking to take their careers in health and safety to the next level. It provides in-depth knowledge and practical skills for managing occupational health and safety risks and ensuring the well-being of employees at a strategic level.

Whether you are seeking to advance within your current role, move into a senior management position, or enhance your knowledge to better manage workplace safety, this qualification offers the expertise needed to succeed. By completing this course, you will be well-equipped to lead health and safety initiatives, promote a culture of safety, and ensure that your organization meets all necessary compliance requirements.