OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management
The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management is a globally recognized, advanced qualification tailored for experienced health and safety professionals aiming to operate at a strategic and leadership level within organizations. This diploma is regulated by Ofqual (UK qualifications regulator) and is set at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 7, which is equivalent to a Master’s degree level.
This qualification equips learners with a thorough understanding of strategic risk management, compliance with international health and safety legislation, accident and incident investigation, policy design, and organizational safety culture development. The course is specifically structured to develop the skills needed to lead occupational health and safety systems across complex work environments in sectors such as construction, oil and gas, engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
The diploma is ideal for professionals currently in supervisory, advisory, or managerial roles who are seeking to move into senior-level positions like Health and Safety Director, HSE Manager, or Compliance Consultant. It also supports progression towards Chartered Membership of IOSH and offers eligibility for direct entry into Master’s degree top-up programs, such as an MSc in Health and Safety Management or an MBA.
With a strong emphasis on real-world applications, this course not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also builds the critical thinking, leadership, and decision-making skills necessary for high-level occupational health and safety roles.
Whether you aim to advance your career, increase your earning potential, or make a meaningful impact on workplace safety standards, the OTHM Level 7 Diploma provides the foundation for long-term success and professional growth.
To enroll in the OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management, prospective learners are required to meet the following criteria:
- Possession of a Level 6 qualification, such as the OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety, or an equivalent Level 6 qualification. Alternatively, candidates may hold an honors degree with a minimum classification of 2.2, accompanied by relevant knowledge and experience in the occupational health and safety sector.
- Applicants must be at least 21 years of age at the commencement of the course.
- Individuals with significant professional experience in the field will also be considered for admission, with each case evaluated individually.
Mandatory Units
The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management consists of 6 mandatory units for a combined total of 120 credits, 1200 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) and 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the completed qualification.
Mandatory units
Learning outcomes for OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management
Health and Safety Management Practice
- Understand what contributes to an effective health and safety culture and climate in an organisation.
- Understand reasons for the effective management of health and safety.
- Be able to review organisational structures and practices relating to health and safety.
Effectiveness of Health and Safety Management Systems
- Understand the relationship between traditional and proactive safety management models.
- Be able to evaluate the influence on an organisation’s safety direction from internal and external factors.
- Understand what contributes to being able to present a plan which promotes a health and safety strategy for the organisation.
Factors Affecting Risk and Strategic Risk Intervention
- Understand the principles of implementing and maintaining a sensible risk management programme.
- Be able to assess health and safety risks within the organisation.
- Understand how to develop risk control measures.
Strategic Commitment to Health and Well-Being
- Be able to evaluate the strategy and policy for a business to develop commitment to an integrated health, well-being and safety strategy.
- Be able to champion plans and engage all levels of the business so that the strategy is actioned, monitored, and evaluated.
- Understand the range of occupational health and well-being challenges that effect the safety and welfare of the employees, the reputation and standing of the business and the relative threats.
Sustainability and Ethics in Health and Safety Practice
- Ensure the business reflects in all its undertakings a strategy and implementation plan for sustainability alongside its core health and safety objectives.
- Be able to demonstrate improvements in behaviours at all levels of the business and all working relationships as a result of developing and implementing improved business sustainability and ethical practices.
- Understand the scope for ethical business practices on the part of the health and safety professional and the scope for developing engagement and commitment to ethical behaviours and measures.
Advanced Research Methods
- Be able to develop research approaches
- Be able to critically review literature relevant to a Health and Safety topic.
- Be able to design research methodologies.
- Be able to plan and prepare a research project.
The OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management caters to a diverse range of professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and proficiency in ensuring workplace health and safety. Specifically tailored for individuals currently engaged in or aspiring to roles within occupational health and safety management, this course addresses the evolving complexities of modern workplaces.
- Health and Safety Managers: For professionals already occupying managerial positions in health and safety, this diploma offers an opportunity to refine their skills, stay abreast of industry best practices, and strengthen their leadership capabilities in risk management.
- Occupational Health and Safety Consultants: Consultants play a pivotal role in advising organizations on health and safety matters. This diploma equips consultants with the advanced knowledge and tools necessary to provide expert guidance and solutions to a diverse clientele.
- Health and Safety Officers: As frontline workers responsible for implementing and monitoring safety protocols, health and safety officers benefit from the in-depth training provided by the Level 7 Diploma. They gain a comprehensive understanding of regulatory requirements and strategies for mitigating workplace hazards.
- Related Field Professionals: Individuals working in allied fields, such as human resources, facilities management, or environmental health, can leverage this diploma to specialize in occupational health and safety. By expanding their skill set, they enhance their career prospects and contribute to fostering safer work environments.
- Career Advancers: For those aiming to advance their careers in health and safety management, whether transitioning from other industries or seeking promotion within their current roles, this diploma serves as a pathway to unlocking new opportunities and professional growth.
By catering to the diverse needs of these professionals, the OTHM Level 7 Diploma empowers learners to navigate the multifaceted landscape of occupational health and safety with confidence and expertise.
Future Progression after OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management
Completing the OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management opens a wide range of academic and professional progression opportunities for ambitious health and safety professionals.
Academic Progression
As a Level 7 (RQF) qualification, equivalent to a Master’s degree, this diploma allows learners to:
- Advance to a Master’s Degree Top-Up
Graduates can apply for a Master’s degree top-up in related fields such as:- MSc in Occupational Health and Safety Management
- MSc in Risk and Safety Leadership
- MBA (Master of Business Administration) with advanced standing
These top-up degrees are typically offered by UK universities and can often be completed in 6 to 12 months, depending on the institution and mode of study (online or campus-based).
Professional Progression
This diploma also strengthens eligibility for prestigious professional designations, such as:
- Chartered Membership of IOSH (CMIOSH) – subject to meeting IOSH’s full criteria
- Membership with IIRSM, BSC, and other global HSE bodies
- Lead roles such as:
- Health and Safety Director
- Senior HSE Manager
- Compliance Consultant
- Risk Management Specialist
Professionals holding this qualification are highly sought after in sectors like construction, oil and gas, aviation, logistics, healthcare, energy, and engineering, where advanced safety leadership is crucial.
Global Opportunities
Due to its UK-regulated status and international recognition, the OTHM Level 7 Diploma enhances your employability across the globe, including the UK, Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia.
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