The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Occupational Health and Safety Practitioner. An Occupational Health and Safety Practitioners serve as a facilitator and advisor to employees and management regarding safety and health aspects in the workplace including the monitoring and inspecting of the workplace and the recording and investigation of incidents and accidents. They also implement and maintain Occupational Health and Safety systems to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.
Occupational Health and Safety is a core element for the success of all enterprises globally. The right to work in a safe and healthy environment is entrenched in the South African Constitution. The accountability for Occupational Health and safety is shared by all stakeholders and there are well established global practices and processes for ensuring Occupational Health and Safety. Over the years the development and implementation of these systems have become a science on its own. Line managers are trained in these processes and a cadre of specialised employees has been established to develop, implement and monitor the effective use of these global best practices.
This qualification is aimed at building the competence levels of this cadre of employees. The qualification also covers the work that will be done by the legislated Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) representatives. This qualification meets a critical need in the industry. It is aligned with the National Development Strategy, and it will enable employees from the different technical work areas to embark on a career path in Occupational Health and Safety Management. All organisations in South Africa require the services of at least one Occupational Health and Safety Practitioner. The training for this cadre of employees is currently fragmented and done through a series of short courses. This qualification will standardise the training and will enhance the levels of compliance in this area.