Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, our structured training pathway offers everything you need to become a fully qualified health and safety professional. Designed to take learners from beginner to CMIOSH-certified in as little as 2–3 years, this fully remote programme combines industry-recognised qualifications with expert mentor support and access to professional safety software.
The route to CMIOSH
There are generally four routes to achieving chartered status (CMIOSH). When you have secured one of these qualifications, a minimum of a Level 6, you need to contact the IOSH Membership Team at the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health directly to progress through CMIOSH.
As set out below, each route has advantages and disadvantages, depending on your circumstances:
NEBOSH Diploma
This is a classroom based course which takes place over several weeks.
Advantages
- Can be done quite quickly
- Good for people who like classroom learning
- Cheaper than a degree
- You don’t need to be in a Health and Safety role
Disadvantages
- The more expensive option
- If you don’t like exams, this route is not for you!
NVQ Level 6 Diploma
A vocational qualification, completed at your workplace with the help of a mentor.
Advantages
- No examinations
- By far the cheapest (from £1,495 + VAT)
- Completed in your own time (within registration constraints)
Disadvantages
- You will need to be in a Health and Safety role
- You will need to be self-motivated
Undergrad Degree
An undergraduate degree requires a minimum of three years of University study.
Advantages
- Very thorough
- In-depth knowledge of subject
- Good for people who like classroom learning
- You don’t need to be in a Health and Safety role
Disadvantages
- Very expensive (£9,000 per year)
- Not good for people who don’t like exams
- Takes a long time
IOSH Level 6 Diploma
A global professional qualification, built on the IOSH competency framework.
Advantages
- Direct link to IOSH with a guaranteed route to CMIOSH
- No examinations
- Completed in your own time
- Resources provided by IOSH
Disadvantages
- More expensive than NVQ – £1895 +VAT
- Must be a member of IOSH
- Two-year time limit to complete
Working as an Independent Health and Safety Advisor
What is OSHCR and why is it important?
The Occupational Safety and Health Consultants Register (OSHCR) was set up after a Government report in 2010 recommended that all safety consultants should be on a register. As such, the OSHCR allows businesses to be certain that registered independent advisors have reached high and professional standards of competence.
What are the requirements for OSHCR registration?
Registration is renewed annually and requires specific membership in any one of a range of professional bodies.
How do I become OSHCR registered?
The most common route to registration for health and safety professionals is as follows:
- NEBOSH General Certificate (or similar) which allows application for Tech IOSH
- NVQ 6 Diploma or NEBOSH Diploma which allows applications for Chartered Member
- With appropriate experience, application can be made for CMIOSH
- Then you would be allowed to be on the register
We can guide you on your path to achieving the qualifications you need to obtain CMIOSH status. If you would like further information on any of the qualifications we offer, please get in touch.