When it comes to workplace safety, having the right training is crucial, whether you are responsible for managing safety or simply looking to improve your knowledge. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) offers two popular courses: IOSH Managing Safely and IOSH Working Safely. Both are excellent qualifications, but they cater to different roles and needs within an organization. If you're considering which course to take, it’s important to understand the differences and how each can benefit you and your career.
What is IOSH Managing Safely?
The IOSH Managing Safely course is designed for managers and supervisors who have responsibility for managing health and safety within their teams. This qualification is ideal for those in leadership positions or individuals looking to take on a more prominent role in safety management. The course equips learners with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage workplace risks, implement safety systems, and promote a safety culture within their organization.
Key Features of IOSH Managing Safely:
Target Audience: Managers, supervisors, and team leaders across all industries.
Focus: Provides a deeper understanding of the safety management system, including risk assessments, legal responsibilities, and how to measure safety performance.
Course Content: Topics covered include hazard identification, assessing risks, investigating accidents, and understanding legal responsibilities.
Level: Advanced compared to IOSH Working Safely, making it suitable for those with a managerial role or those looking to move into one.
What is IOSH Working Safely?
On the other hand, IOSH Working Safely is an introductory-level course suitable for employees at all levels who are looking to improve their basic understanding of health and safety in the workplace. The course is designed to provide a foundation in safety principles and create awareness of common hazards and safety protocols. It is ideal for workers who need to be aware of health and safety standards but do not have a direct responsibility for managing or implementing them.
Key Features of IOSH Working Safely:
Target Audience: All employees, from new starters to those looking to refresh their safety knowledge.
Focus: Provides a basic understanding of safety, hazards, and how to act safely in the workplace.
Course Content: Topics include hazard recognition, risk assessment basics, and the importance of following workplace safety procedures.
Level: Introductory, perfect for those without formal responsibility for safety management but still wanting to contribute to a safer workplace.
Key Differences Between IOSH Managing Safely and IOSH Working Safely
Target Audience:
IOSH Managing Safely is intended for those in managerial or supervisory roles, while IOSH Working Safely is aimed at all employees, regardless of their job function.
Course Depth:
IOSH Managing Safely goes into greater detail on safety management, risk assessments, legal issues, and the creation of safety systems. It’s designed for those who will take a leadership role in safety.
IOSH Working Safely, in contrast, offers a more basic introduction to health and safety principles. It covers essential concepts but does not delve as deeply into the responsibilities of managers or supervisors.
Skill Level:
The Managing Safely course is more comprehensive and requires a higher level of understanding and application. It prepares professionals to take on managerial responsibilities related to health and safety.
The Working Safely course is more suitable for those who need to have an awareness of health and safety but aren’t responsible for managing it.
Duration:
IOSH Managing Safely typically lasts longer, often around 3 to 5 days, depending on the delivery method. It requires more time to cover the in-depth management and leadership elements.
IOSH Working Safely is a one-day course designed to provide employees with essential safety knowledge quickly.
Which Course is Right for You?
Choose IOSH Managing Safely if:
You are a manager, supervisor, or team leader with responsibility for safety in your workplace.
You want to gain a comprehensive understanding of managing health and safety risks.
You are seeking to implement or improve safety systems and risk management strategies within your organization.
Choose IOSH Working Safely if:
You are an employee who needs to understand the basic principles of health and safety.
You want to build a foundational knowledge of workplace hazards and safety measures.
You are not in a managerial role but want to contribute to a safer working environment.
Both IOSH Managing Safely and IOSH Working Safely offer valuable training for different types of professionals. The Managing Safely course is ideal for those who oversee safety in their organization and need advanced knowledge, while Working Safely is perfect for employees who need an introduction to workplace safety.
If you are in a managerial position or aspire to be, IOSH Managing Safely is the course for you. However, if you are simply looking to boost your awareness of health and safety and create a safer working environment, IOSH Working Safely will be an excellent choice.
Remember, regardless of the course you choose, investing in health and safety training not only protects employees but also helps create a culture of safety that benefits the entire organization. Visit Ahlan Safety today
