In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, Process Safety Management (PSM) is more critical than ever. Organizations worldwide are seeking highly qualified professionals to manage safety systems, mitigate risks, and ensure regulatory compliance. The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM) offers a world-class pathway for professionals aiming to specialize in this vital field.
This diploma is not only regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) in the UK, but it is also entirely assignment-based, offering a flexible, accessible, and academically rigorous learning experience.
The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management is more than just a qualification—it’s a strategic investment in your professional future. With its global recognition, practical structure, and OFQUAL accreditation, this diploma empowers safety leaders to thrive in high-stakes environments while promoting a culture of safety and excellence.
OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM)
The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management qualification consists of 6 mandatory units for a combined total of 120 credits and 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the completed qualification.
Mandatory units
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Process Safety Management (PSM) | 10 |
| 2 | Process Safety Management Systems (PSMS), Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) | 30 |
| 3 | Process Safety Engineering | 20 |
| 4 | Emergency Planning and Response | 20 |
| 5 | Legal and Regulatory Compliance | 20 |
| 6 | Environmental Protection in Process Safety | 20 |
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 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM)
1. Introduction to Process Safety Management (PSM)
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and scope of Process Safety Management in high-risk industries.
- Differentiate between occupational safety and process safety, highlighting their respective impacts on organizational risk profiles.
- Evaluate the historical development and significance of PSM through major industrial incidents and case studies.
- Analyze the key elements of a PSM framework and their interrelationships in achieving operational safety and regulatory compliance.
- Critically assess the role of leadership, culture, and organizational structure in the successful implementation of PSM.
2. Process Safety Management Systems (PSMS), Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Analyze the components and architecture of an effective Process Safety Management System (PSMS).
- Evaluate the purpose, design, and performance of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) in mitigating process-related risks.
- Interpret and apply international standards such as IEC 61511 and IEC 61508 related to SIS design and lifecycle.
- Assess the integration of SIS with other layers of protection in a risk management framework.
- Critically review case studies to identify failures in safety systems and recommend improvements.
3. Process Safety Engineering
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Apply advanced engineering principles to identify, analyze, and control process-related hazards.
- Evaluate methods for conducting Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP), Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA), and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA).
- Design preventive and mitigative engineering controls to address process safety risks.
- Analyze the role of asset integrity, human factors, and process control in ensuring safe plant operations.
- Interpret technical drawings and process flow diagrams to identify safety-critical elements.
4. Emergency Planning and Response
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Develop comprehensive emergency response plans aligned with international best practices and regulatory requirements.
- Evaluate different types of industrial emergencies and appropriate response strategies.
- Coordinate the roles and responsibilities of emergency response teams and external agencies.
- Assess the effectiveness of drills, simulations, and crisis management tools in emergency preparedness.
- Review incident case studies to identify gaps in emergency planning and implement lessons learned.
5. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Interpret national and international legal frameworks governing process safety management.
- Analyze the implications of non-compliance with safety laws, standards, and regulations.
- Evaluate the responsibilities of employers and safety managers in maintaining legal compliance.
- Develop strategies to ensure continuous monitoring, documentation, and audit readiness.
- Apply ethical and legal principles to decision-making in complex safety scenarios.
6. Environmental Protection in Process Safety
Upon completion of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Analyze the interrelationship between process safety and environmental protection.
- Evaluate the environmental impact of industrial processes and the risks associated with hazardous releases.
- Develop and implement pollution prevention strategies and sustainability practices.
- Apply international environmental regulations such as EPA, REACH, and SEVESO directives to process operations.
- Assess the role of environmental risk assessments in overall process safety planning.
Pursuing the OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management offers a wide range of professional, academic, and practical benefits, particularly for those working in high-risk industries such as oil & gas, petrochemicals, power generation, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.
1. Globally Recognized, OFQUAL-Regulated Qualification
- The diploma is regulated by Ofqual (UK), ensuring it meets high standards of academic integrity and professional relevance.
- Recognized internationally by employers, academic institutions, and professional bodies.
2. Equivalent to Master’s Level
- The qualification is set at RQF Level 7, equivalent to a Master’s degree, making it ideal for those seeking senior-level positions or further academic progression.
3. 100% Assignment-Based Assessment
- No exams—learners are assessed through practical, workplace-relevant assignments.
- Encourages application of knowledge in real-world scenarios, enhancing retention and job performance.
4. Career Advancement Opportunities
- Enhances your qualifications for roles such as Senior Process Safety Manager, HSE Director, Safety Consultant, or Compliance Auditor.
- Boosts your profile for leadership roles in safety-critical industries.
5. Industry-Relevant Curriculum
- Covers essential and advanced topics including PSM systems, Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), legal compliance, emergency planning, and environmental protection.
- Designed to meet the needs of modern industrial operations and international regulations.
6. Flexible Learning for Working Professionals
- Study at your own pace with flexible schedules, allowing you to balance work, study, and personal commitments.
- Ideal for mid-career professionals looking to upskill without interrupting their career.
7. Pathway to Further Education
- This qualification can serve as a progression route to higher-level academic studies, including MBA, MSc, or Chartered Membership of professional bodies (subject to meeting their requirements).
8. Real-World Skill Development
- Focuses on the development of critical skills such as hazard analysis, emergency response planning, regulatory compliance, and risk management.
- Encourages strategic thinking and problem-solving applicable in high-pressure environments.
9. Contributes to Safer Work Environments
- Empowers professionals to implement effective safety systems and practices, reducing the risk of incidents and enhancing workplace safety culture.
- 10. Enhances Organizational Value
- Employers benefit from staff who are qualified to manage safety systems, reduce operational risks, and ensure compliance with international standards.
The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM) is designed for ambitious, safety-focused professionals who are ready to take on leadership roles in high-risk and complex industrial environments. This qualification is best suited for individuals who are looking to deepen their expertise, improve operational safety, and contribute to strategic risk management initiatives within their organizations.
Who is This Course For?
- Experienced Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Professionals
Individuals currently working in safety roles who wish to specialize in process safety and enhance their qualifications. - Process Engineers and Technical Managers
Engineering professionals responsible for designing, operating, or maintaining process systems who need in-depth knowledge of safety engineering and risk control. - Operations and Plant Managers
Senior-level professionals involved in managing industrial operations where process safety is a key performance driver. - Safety Auditors and Compliance Officers
Professionals responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance and conducting safety audits in line with national and international standards. - Risk Management Consultants
Practitioners offering expert advice to organizations in high-risk sectors, seeking a globally recognized credential to validate their expertise. - Aspiring Safety Leaders
Individuals with a background in engineering, science, or health & safety, aiming to progress into senior or strategic leadership roles in process safety management.
Academic and Professional Background Recommended:
- Motivation to contribute to safer, more sustainable industrial practices
- A relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional qualification
- Work experience in industrial safety, engineering, operations, or risk management is highly desirable
- Strong analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM)
- 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 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM)
