IOSH Managing Safely is a highly respected and globally recognised health and safety course designed and certified by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH)—the leading chartered body for health and safety professionals worldwide. This course is tailored specifically for managers, supervisors, and team leaders across all industries and sectors, regardless of previous health and safety experience. Its main objective is to provide participants with a clear understanding of their health and safety responsibilities and to equip them with the knowledge and practical tools necessary to manage workplace risks effectively.
The course covers a broad range of fundamental topics essential for safe and efficient operations within any organisation. Key modules include an introduction to managing safely, understanding and assessing risks, risk control strategies, understanding health and safety responsibilities, identifying common workplace hazards, investigating accidents and incidents, and measuring performance. These modules are designed to help participants not only understand the importance of health and safety but also apply this knowledge to real-world situations within their specific work environments.
One of the standout features of the IOSH Managing Safely course is its focus on practicality and engagement. Rather than relying heavily on theoretical lectures, the course uses a range of interactive methods, including case studies, group discussions, quizzes, and practical exercises. This approach ensures that learners remain engaged throughout the training and are able to retain and apply what they learn. At the end of the course, participants must complete a multiple-choice test and a risk assessment project to demonstrate their understanding and application of the course content.
The course typically runs over three days (approximately 21 hours), but it can be delivered in a flexible format—either in-person, online, or through blended learning options—depending on the needs of the learners or organisation. Upon successful completion, learners receive an IOSH Managing Safely certificate, which is widely recognised by employers and industry professionals worldwide. Holding this certification not only enhances an individual’s professional credibility but also demonstrates a proactive commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.
For organisations, having staff trained in IOSH Managing Safely helps ensure legal compliance, reduces the risk of workplace accidents, improves employee morale, and contributes to a stronger safety culture. For individuals, it provides valuable skills and a qualification that can open doors to further professional development in health and safety. Whether you’re new to health and safety responsibilities or looking to formalise your knowledge, IOSH Managing Safely is an ideal first step into the world of safety leadership.
IOSH Managing Safely
The Study Units of IOSH Managing Safely are as :
| Sr# | Unit Title |
| 1 | Introducing managing safely |
| 2 | Assessing risks |
| 3 | Controlling risks |
| 4 | Identifying hazards |
| 5 | Investigating incidents |
| 6 | Measuring performance |
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on their studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
By the end of the IOSH Managing Safely, learners will be able to:
1. Introducing Managing Safely
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the importance of managing health and safety in the workplace.
- Recognise the role of managers and supervisors in ensuring health and safety compliance.
- Understand the moral, legal, and financial reasons for proactive health and safety management.
- Appreciate the impact of poor health and safety practices on individuals and organisations.
2. Assessing Risks
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the key terms associated with risk assessment, including “hazard”, “risk”, and “risk assessment”.
- Learn how to identify hazards in the workplace effectively.
- Understand how to assess the level of risk associated with different hazards using a structured approach.
- Gain practical knowledge on how to carry out a basic risk assessment.
3. Controlling Risks
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the principles of controlling risk in the workplace.
- Learn about the hierarchy of risk control measures.
- Identify suitable control measures based on the level and nature of risk.
- Apply proportionate risk control strategies to reduce risks to an acceptable level.
4. Identifying Hazards
Learning Outcomes:
- Recognise common workplace hazards across different environments (e.g., mechanical, physical, chemical, biological, organisational).
- Understand how hazards can cause harm and who may be affected.
- Learn methods to spot and document hazards effectively.
- Understand the importance of routine inspections and ongoing hazard monitoring.
5. Investigating Incidents
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the purpose and importance of incident and accident investigation.
- Learn the steps involved in conducting an effective investigation.
- Identify immediate, underlying, and root causes of incidents.
- Understand how to record findings and take corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
6. Measuring Performance
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the key components of monitoring and measuring health and safety performance.
- Learn the difference between active and reactive monitoring.
- Use performance indicators to track safety improvements and identify areas of concern.
- Understand how audits and inspections contribute to continuous safety improvement.
These learning outcomes help ensure that participants not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop practical skills for applying health and safety principles in real workplace situations.
Here are the key benefits of the IOSH Managing Safely course, both for individuals and organisations:
Benefits for Individuals
- Recognised Qualification
- Receive an internationally respected certificate from IOSH, boosting your professional profile and credibility.
- Essential Health & Safety Skills
- Gain practical knowledge on risk assessment, hazard identification, incident investigation, and legal responsibilities.
- Improved Confidence in Management
- Feel more confident in handling health and safety responsibilities within your team or department.
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Enhances your CV and opens doors to further health and safety qualifications or promotions within your organisation.
- Real-World Application
- The course is designed to be highly practical, allowing you to apply what you learn immediately in your workplace.
- Legal and Ethical Awareness
- Understand the moral, legal, and financial reasons for maintaining a safe working environment.
Benefits for Employers & Organisations
- Stronger Safety Culture
- Equipping managers with safety knowledge promotes a proactive, responsible workplace safety culture.
- Reduced Workplace Incidents
- Fewer accidents and injuries mean less downtime, reduced legal exposure, and lower insurance premiums.
- Legal Compliance
- Helps ensure that your organisation meets health and safety regulations, reducing the risk of enforcement action.
- Improved Morale & Productivity
- A safer workplace increases employee confidence, satisfaction, and overall productivity.
- Cost Savings
- Preventing accidents reduces the direct and indirect costs associated with injury, absence, and equipment damage.
- Reputation Enhancement
- Being seen as a responsible employer improves your brand image and can give you a competitive edge in the market.
IOSH Managing Safely offers practical, career-boosting knowledge for individuals and delivers measurable safety, legal, and financial benefits for organisations.
The IOSH Managing Safely course is specifically designed for individuals in managerial, supervisory, or team leadership roles across all industries and sectors. It is ideal for anyone responsible for overseeing the safety and well-being of employees, operations, or workplace environments—regardless of previous health and safety training or experience.
This course is suitable for:
- Managers and Supervisors
Who need to understand their responsibilities for health and safety within their teams or departments. - Team Leaders and Foremen
Who play an active role in daily operations and must ensure safe working practices on the ground. - Small Business Owners and Employers
Who are looking to build a compliant, safe, and legally sound work environment. - Project Managers and Site Coordinators
Who need to manage risks and ensure health and safety protocols are followed during various phases of work. - HR Professionals and Safety Representatives
Who contribute to policy-making, training, and staff welfare. - Anyone looking to begin a career in Health and Safety
As this course provides an excellent foundation for further professional development in the field.
Industry Sectors Covered
This course is not limited to a specific industry. It applies across a wide range of sectors, including but not limited to:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Engineering
- Education
- Transport & Logistics
- Retail and Hospitality
- Facilities Management
- Oil & Gas
- Local Authorities and Public Services
Whether you’re new to managing health and safety or need a formal qualification to strengthen your role, IOSH Managing Safely offers the knowledge, confidence, and credentials to manage risks responsibly and effectively.
