How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- training through a professional body
University
You can do a degree in a subject, such as:
- occupational safety, health and environment
- environmental health
You might also be able to apply to do a postgraduate qualification in health and safety, if you have a degree related to a particular industry. Examples include construction, engineering or manufacturing.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
More Information
Apprenticeship
You can apply to do a Safety, Health and Environment Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You can also do an Environmental Health Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete and combine on-the-job training and time spent with a learning provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
More Information
Other Routes
You could study for a general health and safety qualification while you're working, or to improve your chances of finding a trainee position.
Topics will include:
- health and safety in the workplace
- monitoring risks
- legal regulations
- carrying out health and safety assessments
Courses are often flexible with options to study part-time or online.
You can take approved health and safety courses through:
More Information
Professional and industry bodies
The Occupational Safety and Health Consultants Register has a list of organisations offering membership, which can help with professional development.
Further information
You can find out more about a career in health and safety from: