New health and safety qualification

The National Examining Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) is probably the world's leading awarding body in health and safety qualifications. Its courses set the standard for anyone who is concerned with health and safety at work, and those who hold NEBOSH qualifications can be confident that they have achieved the benchmark for success at any chosen level.

Building on many years of success with its General Certificate, NEBOSH recently introduced the international version of this valuable qualification. The syllabus covers a range of workplace hazards and methods of control, and includes international standards for safety and health management.

Local laws and cultural factors are also taken into account during the study programme. Malta's Institute of Health and Safety is now accredited to offer the International Certificate, and its next course will start in mid-April.

The course is organised over 13 days, delivered in half-day sessions on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Candidates are assessed by two written examinations and a practical assessment.

Any training provider wishing to run these courses must undergo rigorous vetting, and meet the high standards set by NEBOSH before accreditation is granted. It is therefore with some pride that the Institute of Health and Safety (IHS) can announce that it is a NEBOSH accredited centre.

The International General Certificate is ideal for managers, supervisors, worker representatives and others who require a knowledge and understanding of health and safety principles and practices.

It provides a sound basis for evaluating risks and hazards in any country, and in any business. It is also suitable for those embarking on a career in health and safety, providing a valuable foundation for further professional study.

Organisations will benefit greatly from having NEBOSH-qualified staff in strategic positions to promote appropriate standards and monitor progress in health and safety at work.

The Institute is holding an information and advice surgery for anyone interested on Tuesday between 4 and 6 p.m. For more information, phone Stefan Salomone on 2136-6966 for details.