A question I often hear from candidates and employers alike is: “does the IOSH Managing Safely certificate expire?”
Candidates want to know if they’ll need to retake the course in a few years or whether their qualifications will stay valid for life.
The short answer is no—the IOSH Managing Safely qualification does not expire. However, there’s more to the story, especially when it comes to keeping your health and safety knowledge up to date.
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The IOSH Managing Safely certificate is valid for life
Once you’ve completed the IOSH Managing Safely course and passed the assessment, your certificate is yours for life. Many certifications out there require renewals, but not IOSH.
This applies to all IOSH qualifications, from the entry-level IOSH Working Safely course to specialized courses like IOSH Fire Safety Awareness. Your IOSH qualification is valid for life from the date of issue.
But the thing is what was considered best practice three years ago might be completely outdated today. Technologies advance. Regulations shift. New research emerges.
That’s why IOSH recommends refreshing your knowledge every three years. It’s so you can keep your safety skills razor-sharp.
Why should you refresh your knowledge?
I remember a time when I was working with a team at an airport. Regulations had changed around hazardous material handling, but a few managers hadn’t kept up. We had to scramble to ensure compliance. That experience taught me two things:
- Knowing the rules isn’t enough—you need to stay updated.
- Regular training can save time, money, and stress in the long run.
Who Benefits from IOSH Refresher Training?
Let’s start with the business side.
At one of my recent training sessions, a logistics manager shared how regular IOSH updates reduced workplace injuries in their warehouse. Not only did they cut down on accidents, but it also boosted team morale. When employees see their managers investing in safety, they feel valued.
For individuals, staying current can mean the difference between landing a new job or watching it go to someone else.
Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate an ongoing commitment to professional development.
What to expect from the IOSH Managing Safely refresher course
The IOSH Managing Safely Refresher is a condensed version of the full course, It’s a completed in one day. It covers:
- Updates on health and safety legislation
- Revisions to best practices and management systems
- New insights into risk assessment and hazard control
- Current approaches to measuring and improving performance
I’ve taught this course countless times, and students always tell me how eye-opening it is. Even seasoned managers walk away with new tools to apply on the job.
It only takes a few hours (2 to 6 hours) to complete, and so won’t take too much time away from your busy work schedule. Plus, because the course is available online, you can complete it from anywhere, at any time.
So, Is the refresher course worth it?
Yes. Your IOSH Managing Safely certificate is yours for life. But your knowledge should never stop growing. IOSH recommends refreshing your skills every three years, and I couldn’t agree more.
We’ve made the refresher course as flexible as possible. Need to fit it around a busy work schedule? No problem. Our online option lets you learn at your own pace, without compromising your responsibilities.
If it’s time for your refresher or you’re considering taking the full IOSH Managing Safely course for the first time, book your IOSH course today with THS.
I’ve trained thousands of professionals through Train in Health and Safety (THS), and I’d love to help you too. Choose from flexible online, in-person, or in-company options, and let’s get started.
📞 Call me, Sam Kerr, at +44(0)20 8059 3633
📧 Email us at [email protected]
