Construction is one of the most dangerous industries of them all, so prioritising health and safety at all times is a must for everyone involved, from employers and members of staff to subcontractors.
The latest statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that there were 51 fatal injuries to workers between 2023 and 2024, with falls from height making up 52 per cent of all fatal accidents.
Deaths were also caused by something overturning/collapsing, being struck by a moving object, being struck by a moving vehicle and coming into contact with electricity or electrical discharges.
Furthermore, 47,000 workers sustained non-fatal injuries at work between 2021 and 2024.
Everyone has their own personal responsibilities to uphold safety standards in construction environments – which is why it can be particularly beneficial to gain the NEBOSH health and safety management for construction certificate, one of the most respected and in-demand qualifications for the sector.
But what to expect on the course?
All the core construction health and safety issues will be covered, so you’ll leave with all the practical skills and technical knowledge you need to successfully identify risks and hazards, assessing safety and risk management effectively.
All main legal requirements for safe practice on construction sites is included in the course content, focusing on the construction (design management) regulations.
The qualification is made of 13 unique elements, including managing change, working at height, electricity, work equipment, load handling, musculoskeletal health, excavation, demolition, and physical and psychological health.
In terms of study hours, it should take around 118 hours to complete the course, with a minimum of 70 taught hours and around 40 hours of independent study. If you opt for in-house, classroom or virtual classroom learning, it should typically take nine days to complete.
Assessment for the qualification includes an open book exam based on these 13 elements, with a workplace-based scenario provided as reference. Course notes, study books, independent research and the HSE website can all be used during the exam, which is carried out over a timeframe of 48 hours.
Once the exam is over, you will then be expected to complete a short closing interview (over video), which is designed to ensure that you took the exam yourself.
In order to achieve the full NEBOSH construction certificate, this unit must be completed successfully within five years.
Who can benefit?
This NEBOSH certificate is a great choice for contract managers, site managers, site workers with health and safety responsibilities, and health and safety advisors.
Given that many jobs within the health and safety industry require this qualification (or similar) as an essential, you could increase your employability and broaden your horizons quickly if you get this course under your belt.
If you’d like to build your health and safety knowledge further, our NEBOSH General Certificate course is a great place to start. It’s designed for anyone looking to develop practical skills and gain a respected qualification in workplace safety. To find out more, get in touch with the ACT team today.
