The CIEH Foundation Certificate in Health and Safety in the Workplace has now been replaced by the CIEH Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace. This new qualification, which is suitable for all employees, has been developed to address the revised national occupational standards in health and safety.
National occupational what?
National occupational standards are statements of knowledge and understanding expected from employees by employers and industry. They are developed by the Employment National Training Organisation (ENTO) to address the health and safety requirements of every employment sector in the UK.
Is that the only reason?
Not quite. As you may be aware, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health prides itself on being at the forefront of accredited qualifications in health and safety and food safety qualifications for the workplace. Based on the CIEH Foundation Certificate in Health and Safety in the Workplace, this qualification has been completely revised with new and updated content. It is complemented by the second edition of the Health and Safety: First principles course book and brand new Trainers' Notes.
How does it differ from the old qualification?
The key changes are new sections on transport and vehicles in the workplace, noise and vibration and working at heights.
Can the new qualification be tailored for my customers?
This qualification, as with all CIEH qualifications, can be customised to meet both business and individual needs in order to make the learning experience relevant and fit for purpose.
Will I be registered to deliver this new qualification automatically?
No, you will need to register using the appropriate forms. As of the 1st of January 2007, the standard fees now apply for this application. On successful registration, all centres will receive a free copy of the new training pack.
This all sounds expensive – how much will it cost?
If you act before 31 December 2006 and are already registered for the CIEH Foundation Certificate in Health and Safety in the Workplace, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. Furthermore all centres will receive a FREE copy of the new training pack.
What is ‘Level 2’?
As an awarding body, the CIEH develops a wide range of vocationally related qualifications that are accredited within the QCA national qualifications framework at various skills levels. Learning at Level 2 involves building knowledge and skills in relation to an area of work.
Level 2 qualifications are appropriate for many job roles and suitable for individuals who perform varied tasks with some guidance or supervision. In the case of health and safety, that means every employee in the organisation.
Can I still offer the old Foundation Certificate?
The Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace superseded the Foundation Certificate in Health and Safety on 31 of March 2007 and is now the recommended qualification. Candidates who hold a Foundation Certificate in Health and Safety taken in the last three years do not need to retake the examination.
What next?
Complete and return the appropriate application forms. As soon as these have been processed, you are free to start delivering the new qualification. Download the forms or contact Customer Services on 020 7827 5800 (option 1) for further advice and assistance.