NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

The NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) covers the principles relating to health and safety, identification and control of workplace hazards and the practical application of this knowledge. The IGC syllabus takes a risk management approach based on best practice and international standards, such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) codes of practice. Local laws and cultural factors may form part of the study programme where relevant and appropriate.

The International General Certificate is also suitable for those embarking on a career in health and safety, providing a valuable foundation for further professional study.

No previous health and safety knowledge is required. However it should be noted that the examination is offered, and must be answered, in English, and that the course includes a requirement to write a short report, which must also be in English. NEBOSH recommends that candidates undertaking the NEBOSH International General Certificate should reach the equivalent of a scoring of 6.0 or higher under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

The qualification is divided into three units, each of which is assessed separately:

• Management of international health and safety (IGC1)
• Control of international workplace hazards (IGC2)
• International health and safety practical application (IGC3)

How is it assessed?

Units IGC1 and IGC2 are taught units each assessed by one two-hour written examination. Each written examination consists of ten ‘short-answer’ questions and one ‘long-answer’ question. All questions are compulsory. Candidate scripts are marked by external examiners appointed by NEBOSH.

Unit IGC3 is assessed by one two-hour practical examination carried out in the candidate’s own workplace. The assessment must normally be taken within 14 days of a written examination. The practical examination is internally assessed by the course provider and externally moderated by NEBOSH.