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NVQ Level 3 Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety

ProQual Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety Practice (RQF)

Qualification Number: 601/4766/0

Course Overview

The ProQual Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety Practice (RQF) is a nationally recognised, work-based qualification awarded by ProQual and regulated by Ofqual.

This qualification is designed for individuals responsible for maintaining and improving health, safety, and welfare standards within their organisation. It develops the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence required to manage everyday workplace safety responsibilities effectively.

Unlike traditional classroom-based courses, the Level 3 NVQ is assessed entirely through real work activities. There are no written exams. Assessment is based on evidence generated from your day-to-day job role, supported by an experienced NVQ assessor.

Relevant workplace evidence from the last two years can be used toward the qualification, helping learners save time and avoid duplicating work.

This qualification strengthens occupational health and safety competence, improves organisational compliance, and provides a recognised professional route into safety management roles.

Why Choose This Qualification?

  • Ofqual regulated (Qualification No. 601/4766/0)

  • 100% work-based assessment – no exams

  • Suitable for learners worldwide

  • Flexible online or on-site assessment options

  • Ongoing 1-to-1 support from qualified assessors

  • Use existing workplace evidence to fast-track completion

  • Recognised across multiple industries and professional pathways

This NVQ is particularly valuable for those looking to formalise practical health and safety experience with a regulated qualification.

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification is ideal for individuals with responsibility for workplace health and safety, including:

  • Health & Safety Officers or Advisors

  • Site Supervisors and Managers

  • Facilities, Operations, or Compliance Managers

  • Team Leaders with safety responsibilities

  • Individuals progressing into occupational health and safety careers

The qualification applies across all industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, education, retail, hospitality, and more.

Course Structure

To achieve the qualification, learners must complete:

  • 6 Mandatory Units

  • 1 Optional Unit

Mandatory Units

  1. Investigate and evaluate health and safety incidents and complaints

  2. Ensure responsibility for actions to reduce risks to health and safety

  3. Develop procedures to safely control work operations

  4. Monitor procedures to safely control work operations

  5. Promote a culture of health and safety in the workplace

  6. Conduct a health and safety risk assessment of the workplace

Optional Units (Select One)

  • Ensure actions in the workplace protect the environment

  • Review health and safety procedures in the workplace

  • Supervise the health, safety and welfare of a learner in the workplace

Practical & Flexible Completion

You can continue working in your current role while completing the qualification.

Evidence is submitted electronically through an online NVQ portfolio system, with guidance and structured support from your assessor throughout the process.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal academic entry requirements.

However, learners must be in a job role that allows them to demonstrate responsibility for workplace health and safety through practical evidence.

Assessment Method

Assessment is competence-based and includes:

  • Workplace documentation

  • Risk assessments

  • Incident investigations

  • Method statements and procedures

  • Professional discussions

  • Witness testimonies

  • Reflective accounts

There are no classroom sessions or written examinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to complete?

Most learners complete the NVQ within 3–6 months, depending on how quickly evidence is gathered and submitted. Fast-track options may be available.

2. Do I need to attend classes or sit exams?

No. The NVQ is 100% evidence-based and assessed entirely through your real workplace activities. Assessment can be completed remotely.

3. Can I use previous workplace documents?

Yes. Relevant evidence from the last two years can be included in your portfolio, subject to assessor approval.

4. What can I do after completing this qualification?

Learners often progress to:

  • Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice

  • Professional membership pathways such as Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH)

  • Roles including Safety Manager, Health & Safety Advisor, or Compliance Lead

This qualification provides a strong foundation for further professional development in occupational health and safety management.


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