Updates to the IOSH Membership Structure
IOSH have announced a range of changes to their membership programme which will come into effect later this year. These updates include changes to the names of membership levels and how individuals can acquire and progress to higher membership levels. In this blog we’ll go through each of the changes and how they affect progression through IOSH membership.
What is IOSH?
IOSH, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, is a chartered health and safety organisation which designs courses for employees at various levels of an organisation. Their courses run in over 130 countries, and they also advise governments and organisations on the development of safety policy and legislation. IOSH has the most members of any health and safety membership organisation in the world thanks to the many benefits membership offers, as well as the international recognition of the organisation.
Changes to IOSH Membership
Later this year, IOSH Membership will be going through some structural changes, which includes the renaming of some membership levels and changes to how some membership levels are achieved.
We’ll cover all the changes in the post below. To find out more detailed information about each membership level, take a look at our breakdown of IOSH Membership here.
Student Membership
As opposed to studying any health and safety course, student membership will now only be obtainable by individuals studying an IOSH approved qualification, such as IOSH Managing Safely or the NEBOSH General Certificate.
Affiliate Membership
Affiliate Membership will not be changing drastically, with it remaining the entry level of IOSH membership.
Associate Membership will be combining with Affiliate Membership however, so all existing Associate members will transition to this level. As this level is suitable for those not studying a qualification, and is open to anyone with an interest in the health and safety industry, this will mean few practical changes for members.
Technical Membership (TechIOSH)
As before, members can progress to Technical Membership if they possess an eligible level 3 qualification, which is equivalent to a GCSE, such as the NEBOSH General Certificate. The NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety and Construction Certificate do not qualify for this membership level. In addition to this they will also need a minimum of one year relevant industry experience to advance to Technical Membership.
Certified Membership (CertIOSH)
This level was previously known as Graduate Membership (GradIOSH), and apart from the name, it won’t be changing. To achieve it, a recognised level 6 qualification is needed, such as the NEBOSH Diploma. Members also need to possess 2 years of industry experience, which is a new requirement coming with the membership update.
Chartered Membership (CMIOSH)
Remaining unchanged, members can progress to Chartered status following completion of the IPD (Initial Professional Development) Scheme. Chartered members and Fellowship members are also required to complete the OSH Ethical Practice e-Learning and Assessment programme.
Chartered Fellowship Membership (CFIOSH)
Only awarded to members who have been chartered for 5 years or more following an application process, Chartered Fellowship is the highest membership level attainable at IOSH, and is remaining unchanged when the membership system updates.
The new Experiential Route
Along with the changes comes a new method of progressing through IOSH membership. Through the Experiential Route, individuals can progress to Certified or Chartered Membership based on industry experience in a safety leadership role. Most individuals will possess 5 to 10 years’ experience when applying, and applications will be reviewed, with interviews included in the process for those applying for Chartered membership. The cost to join through the experiential route is £1080.
Qualifications for IOSH Membership
Although some years of experience will be required for IOSH Membership once the changes to its structure are live, the backbone of acquiring membership and the necessary experience is health and safety qualifications. Especially since studying an eligible qualification such as the NEBOSH General Certificate can qualify you for Student Membership.
Acquiring a recognised qualification and joining IOSH as a member is a brilliant way to begin your safety career. With networking opportunities, mentor schemes and a range of other benefits for those just starting out, it can help you begin to develop your skills and expertise.
Courses for Technical Membership
To achieve Technical Membership with IOSH, you need to possess an eligible level 3, or GCSE equivalent, qualification, such as:
NEBOSH General Certificate
As the industry standard for foundational health and safety courses, the GCSE equivalent, level 3 NEBOSH General Certificate is the first-choice qualification for many when embarking on their safety journey. Across its 9-day duration it covers the fundamentals of occupational safety and health, preparing you for a career in the industry. It can be studied both as a National and International qualification.
NEBOSH Construction Certificate
A GCSE equivalent qualification like the General Certificate, the NEBOSH Construction Certificate provides a similar foundational knowledge of occupational safety and health across 9 days. However, where it differs is in covering safety content relevant to the construction industry, such as excavation and demolition safety. If you’re considering a career in construction safety specifically, this course will be more beneficial than the General Certificate. The Construction Certificate can be studied both as a National and International qualification.
Courses for Certified Membership
To achieve Certified Membership, a level 6 or degree equivalent eligible qualification is required. These include:
NEBOSH Diploma
As the gold standard for health and safety qualifications, the NEBOSH Diploma is the go-to degree level qualification for those pursuing careers in health and safety. It provides a comprehensive understanding of occupational health and safety over six weeks, effectively preparing students for a career in the safety industry.
NVQ Level 6
Suitable for individuals already in health and safety positions looking to acquire a degree level qualification, the NVQ Level 6 is a vocational qualification completed in your workplace. The course provides opportunity for individuals to evidence their health and safety expertise, demonstrating their knowledge and skillset in a range of areas. The qualification can lead to promotions and salary increases, as it demonstrates your competence and safety expertise.
Benefits of IOSH Membership
All members of IOSH also benefit from the following, making it a must have membership for health and safety professionals:
Access to research materials and IOSH learning resources, as well as newsletters and magazines, keeping you up to date on everything health and safety
Networking opportunities with fellow members at a range of events and conferences held at local IOSH branches.
Recognition as an industry professional
Use of the CPD (continual professional development) program to further your skills and expertise, as well as advance your career
Discounts on all IOSH events
The cost for your first year of IOSH Membership is £208, which includes a joining fee. When you are promoted to Certified (previously Graduate Membership) you’ll pay a one-time fee of £160 to join the IPD (Initial Professional Development) scheme, which will help you on your journey towards Chartered Membership. The annual fee for membership depends on your membership level, ranging from £147.00 a year to £203.00.
You can book a NEBOSH course or NVQ today and begin your journey towards IOSH membership today, or, if you have any questions about our courses, speak to a member of the team.