In today’s dynamic and fast-paced workplace, ensuring the health and safety of employees is more critical than ever. Employers are legally obligated to provide safe working conditions while complying with UK regulations that protect their workforce. The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety is an Ofqual-regulated qualification designed to help professionals enhance their knowledge and develop the skills required to manage health and safety systems effectively across diverse organisational settings.
This diploma is ideal for individuals aiming to progress their careers in the health and safety sector, including roles such as health and safety officers, advisors, and consultants. Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual), the qualification meets the highest standards of quality and rigor, providing learners with confidence in the credibility and value of their achievement. The course content focuses on practical strategies, risk management, compliance, and organisational safety culture, equipping learners to address real-world challenges in the workplace.
The OTHM Level 6 Diploma is entirely assignment-based, with no formal exams, allowing learners to apply theoretical knowledge directly to practical scenarios. Through carefully structured assignments, learners demonstrate their ability to design, implement, and evaluate effective health and safety management strategies. This approach ensures that graduates not only gain academic understanding but also develop the practical competence needed to make a tangible impact in workplace safety. For professionals committed to advancing their careers and creating safer work environments, this qualification offers an ideal pathway to success.
OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety comprises 7 mandatory units, totaling 60 credits. The qualification requires 600 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT) and 220 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) upon completion.
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Health and Safety Management Principles and Policy | 8 | 80 |
| 2 | Health and Safety Management Practice | 10 | 80 |
| 3 | Risk and Incident Management | 8 | 80 |
| 4 | Promoting a Positive Health and Safety Culture | 6 | 80 |
| 5 | Maintaining a Safe Workplace Environment | 12 | 80 |
| 6 | Health and Safety Law, Regulation and Influence | 8 | 80 |
| 7 | Development of the Health and Safety Practitioner | 8 | 80 |
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 heir 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.
Learning Outcomes of OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
Health and Safety Management Principles and Policy
- Understand the principles of health and safety management and its organisational systems.
- Understand the principles of health and safety policy.
- Be able to conduct a critical review of a health and safety policy in an organisation.
- Be able to assess internal and external factors that influence health and safety practices.
Health and Safety Management Practice
- Understand the process of planning and organising occupational health and safety practices in the workplace.
- Understand the process of leading and controlling health and safety practices in the workplace.
- Understand the process of reviewing the performance of health and safety practices in the workplace.
- Understand the process of monitoring and auditing health and safety practices in the workplace.
- Understand corporate social responsibilities and ethical codes of conduct and their impact on health and safety management.
- Understand the critical factors in the management of occupational health and wellbeing in the workplace.
Risk and Incident Management
- Understand the processes and strategies for identifying hazards and evaluating risk levels when carrying out risk assessments in an organisation.
- Understand the strategies and techniques of risk control.
- Understand the models of loss causation, analysis of loss data and the importance of incident investigation.
- Understand processes and strategies to manage health and safety incidents in an organisation.
Promoting a Positive Health and Safety Culture
- Understand key organisational. factors that influence the health and safety culture in the workplace.
- Understand key human factors that influence health and safety performance and behaviour in the workplace.
- Understand the impact of leadership, structure and consultation on the health and safety culture of an organisation.
- Be able to develop a strategy to improve the health and safety culture of an organisation.
Maintaining a Safe Working Environment
- Understand the range of factors to consider to maintain a safe work environment.
- Understand the hazards, risks and controls applicable to a range of workplace contexts.
- Understand the maintenance of fire safety and protection against explosion.
- Understand safe storage, handling and management of hazardous substances, including biological agents
- Understand safe management of work equipment and machinery
Health and Safety Law, Regulation and Influence
- Understand international frameworks for legislation, regulation and enforcement.
- Understand statutory and regulatory obligations for maintaining health and safety in an organisation.
- Understand the industry and community roles in influencing and promoting local and national positive health and safety outcomes.
Development of the Health and Safety Practitioner
- Understand roles and responsibilities of health and safety practitioners.
- Be able to assess organisational competence and skills requirements for health and safety practitioners.
- Be able to produce a personal and professional development plan in own area of responsibility as a health and safety practitioner.
The OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety offers a range of benefits for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the field of health and safety. Here are some key benefits of the course:
- Professional Development:
- The course provides a comprehensive understanding of key health and safety practices, policies, and legislation, enabling learners to become experts in the field.
- It equips students with the practical knowledge and skills to manage health and safety risks effectively within organizations.
- Industry Recognition:
- The OTHM Level 6 Diploma is a recognized qualification, valued by employers across a variety of industries. It demonstrates a high level of competence in occupational health and safety, opening doors to career advancement.
- The qualification aligns with international standards and helps students become qualified health and safety professionals in their respective regions.
- Improved Career Opportunities:
- This diploma is ideal for individuals who want to progress into senior roles such as Health and Safety Manager, Safety Consultant, or Health and Safety Officer.
- The skills and knowledge gained will significantly improve your employability, providing a competitive edge in the job market.
- Practical Application:
- The course focuses on real-world application, giving students the ability to apply health and safety theory to practical scenarios in various work environments.
- Learners will gain the ability to conduct risk assessments, develop safety management systems, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Comprehensive Curriculum:
- The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including hazard identification, risk assessment, health and safety legislation, emergency preparedness, and accident investigation.
- It provides students with in-depth knowledge on how to create and implement effective health and safety strategies in organizations of all sizes.
- Pathway to Further Qualifications:
- Upon successful completion, students can progress to higher-level qualifications such as the OTHM Level 7 Diploma or other advanced certifications.
- The diploma also serves as a foundation for individuals interested in pursuing Chartered membership with professional bodies such as the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).
- Flexible Learning Options:
- The course can be pursued through various learning methods, including online and part-time study options, making it accessible to professionals with busy schedules.
- This flexibility allows students to balance their work and study commitments effectively.
- Enhancing Organizational Safety Culture:
- By completing this course, individuals can help build a safety-conscious culture within organizations, reducing workplace accidents and improving overall productivity.
- The knowledge gained will allow students to contribute to creating safer work environments that protect employees’ well-being and minimize risks.
- Global Perspective:
- The course is designed to equip students with knowledge that is applicable worldwide, allowing them to pursue health and safety roles in various international settings.
- It provides insights into global health and safety standards, ensuring students are equipped to work in multinational or diverse environments.
This qualification is ideal for anyone looking to build a successful career in Occupational Health and Safety, providing the necessary knowledge and credentials to take on leadership roles in protecting people at work.
The ideal learner for the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety is someone who:
- Has Relevant Experience or Background:
- The course is ideal for individuals with prior experience in health and safety, management, or related fields who are looking to formalize and expand their knowledge.
- It’s also suitable for those working in environments where health and safety are critical, such as construction, manufacturing, or healthcare, and who wish to take on more senior or specialist roles.
- Aspires to Progress in Health and Safety Careers:
- Learners aiming to advance into higher positions such as Health and Safety Manager, Safety Consultant, Risk Assessor, or similar roles will find the course particularly beneficial.
- The course is designed for those looking to enhance their qualifications and gain the skills needed for leadership roles in Occupational Health and Safety.
- Is Motivated and Committed to Professional Growth:
- The ideal learner is someone who is committed to advancing their professional development and is willing to invest the time and effort needed to complete the course.
- A keen interest in health and safety and a desire to make a difference in the workplace safety culture are important traits for success.
- Has Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:
- The course involves conducting risk assessments, identifying hazards, and developing safety strategies. As such, an ideal learner will have good analytical and problem-solving skills, and be able to apply these skills to real-world scenarios.
- Is Able to Work Independently:
- While support is available, this qualification often requires a degree of independent study and self-motivation. The ideal learner will be someone who can manage their time effectively and work well both individually and within a team environment.
- Is Interested in Creating Safe Work Environments:
- This course is ideal for individuals who have a strong sense of responsibility for ensuring workplace safety, health, and well-being, and who are passionate about minimizing risks and improving safety standards.
- Is Seeking Global Career Opportunities:
- Learners with an interest in working internationally or in multinational organizations will benefit from this course, as it provides the knowledge and qualifications needed to work within global health and safety regulations.
- Has a Desire to Meet Regulatory and Legal Standards:
- The course is also perfect for those who want to ensure that their workplace complies with health and safety laws and regulations, thereby safeguarding employees and reducing the risk of legal liabilities for the organization.
Overall, the ideal learner for this course is someone who is proactive, focused on advancing in health and safety management, and is eager to gain the expertise needed to improve the safety and well-being of people at work.
Completing the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety opens up a wide range of career and academic progression opportunities in the health and safety sector. Graduates can advance into senior and managerial roles such as Health and Safety Manager, Occupational Health Advisor, Safety Consultant, or Risk Assessment Specialist. The assignment-based structure equips learners with practical skills that are highly valued by employers across industries including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and corporate sectors.
Career Progression Opportunities
Completing the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety equips learners with the skills and knowledge to advance into senior roles within the health and safety sector. Key career opportunities include:
- Health and Safety Manager
- Occupational Health Advisor
- Safety Consultant
- Risk Assessment Specialist
- Compliance Officer
This qualification is highly valued across industries such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and corporate sectors, giving graduates practical skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
Academic and Professional Advancement
The diploma also provides a strong foundation for further study and professional development. Progression pathways include:
- OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management
- Master’s degrees in Health and Safety, Risk Management, or Environmental Management
- Professional certifications and membership with recognised UK health and safety bodies
This ensures learners can pursue both higher-level qualifications and advanced professional roles.
Impact on Workplace Safety
Graduates are empowered to make a real difference in organisational safety culture. Benefits include:
- Developing and implementing effective health and safety strategies
- Enhancing workplace compliance and reducing incidents
- Preparing for leadership and consultancy roles in occupational health and safety
The OTHM Level 6 Diploma serves as a launchpad for career growth, professional credibility, and making a tangible impact in any organisation.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignments & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignments and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to OTHM External Quality Assurance Versifier (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, OTHM will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety.
FAQs for OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
