What is NEBOSH?

This blog was updated in August 2023 

NEBOSH (The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) is the leading examining body for the UK health and safety industry. Their globally-recognised qualifications are designed to teach learners the skills and knowledge to manage health, safety and environmental issues in all places of work. Around 50,000 people take a NEBOSH qualification each year, all around the world.

How Many Types of NEBOSH Qualifications Exist?

NEBOSH qualifications range from basic level health and safety awards, to foundation certificates, specialist certificates and higher level diplomas. That means that there is a NEBOSH course to suit all levels of learners; from front line employees, right through to those just starting off in their career and aspiring health and safety practitioners.

NEBOSH National General Certificate

The NEBOSH National General Certificate (NGC) is the most popular health and safety qualification in the UK. As a level 3 qualification, equivalent to A-levels, it provides a solid foundation for managing health and safety within the modern workplace, as well as offering a clear route to higher-level qualifications. Specialist certificates build on the knowledge gained from the NGC and take a more focused approach in a particular industry, including construction, fire, risk management, oil and gas and the environment.

If you work outside the UK find out more about the NEBOSH International General Certificate.

NEBOSH National Diploma

NEBOSH’s flagship qualification, the NEBOSH Diploma, has quickly become established within the industry as the sign of a competent health and safety practitioner. Equivalent to a bachelor degree, it demonstrates the ability to manage risk at a strategic and operational level.

Find out more about the different types of NEBOSH qualifications in our post 'Which NEBOSH Course is right for you?'

Where is NEBOSH Recognised?

NEBOSH qualifications are recognised all over the world as the gold standard in health and safety training, opening up a world of opportunity for those working in multi-national organisations or hoping to work abroad. Learners from over 125 countries registered for a NEBOSH qualification during 2016/17, highlighting the level of influence NEBOSH qualifications have on raising standards in global health, safety and environmental workplace management. 

NEBOSH qualifications are recognised in all industries. In fact, 92% of HSE job advertisements in 2017 requested some form of NEBOSH qualification and/or IOSH membership as an essential requirement, not only highlighting the importance of health and safety in the modern workplace, but the potential job opportunities available for those who hold a NEBOSH qualification.

Professional Membership

NEBOSH qualifications are recognised by professional bodies as a route to entry. Being a member of a recognised health and safety body will help solidify your skills to potential employers as well as support your professional development with CPD and networking opportunities.

Professional Membership is often a key reason why learners study a NEBOSH Qualifications. Discover the many reasons as to why a NEBOSH qualification might be right for you.

Find out more about the different membership options available to you in our post ‘where can your NEBOSH course take you?’

For more information about our range of NEBOSH courses click below!