NEBOSH has refreshed its Health and Safety at Work Award, introducing updates aimed at strengthening its position as an accessible entry point into occupational safety training.
Designed as a short, introductory qualification, the course can be completed in around three days and equips learners with the practical skills needed to identify common workplace hazards, assess risks and support safer working environments across a range of industries. The programme also aims to build confidence in applying core safety principles in real-world settings.
The revised 2026 version includes a more structured syllabus, offering clearer guidance on learning outcomes. It also introduces content on mental ill-health, reflecting a broader understanding of workplace risks, and aligns more closely with NEBOSH’s higher-level qualifications to support progression.
Feedback from previous participants has been strong, with the qualification achieving a 93% recommendation rate. Many learners reported that the course helped them better manage everyday risks, prevent incidents and improve overall safety practices within their organisations.
Janet Dawson, who led the redevelopment, said the qualification remains a practical starting point for those entering the field. “The Health and Safety at Work Award provides learners with essential knowledge to make immediate improvements in their workplaces and reduce the likelihood of incidents,” she said. “Because the assessment is based on the learner’s own working environment, it allows them to deliver real value to their organisation while studying.”
Learners have also highlighted the qualification’s role in supporting career development. Akram Ali Khan, who completed the award before progressing to more advanced certifications, said: “It gave me a solid grounding in key areas such as risk assessment, hazard control and the importance of building a strong safety culture.”
The qualification is available in both English and Arabic through NEBOSH’s global network of learning partners, making it accessible to a wide audience seeking to build foundational knowledge in health and safety.
