Is the OHS Level 3 NVQ Difficult?
The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Level 3 NVQ is a well-recognised qualification designed for professionals responsible for workplace safety. It’s often seen as a stepping stone for those looking to advance in the health and safety field, but one common concern among prospective candidates is whether the NVQ, and Level 3 NVQs in general, are difficult. While the Level 3 OHS NVQ does require dedication and commitment, it’s designed to be a practical, work-based qualification that assesses competency, compared to traditional qualifications that would test your theoretical knowledge through exams. In today’s blog we’ll be looking into the structure of the qualification, its challenges, and why the majority of candidates that take NVQs find them to be both manageable, and rewarding.
Understanding the Structure of the OHS Level 3 NVQ
One of the key reasons the OHS Level 3 NVQ is typically considered more accessible than traditional academic qualifications is its work-based nature. Instead of sitting formal exams, candidates build an online portfolio of evidence based on their real-world workplace activities in the job they’re already in. This allows them to demonstrate their competency in managing health and safety risks, without needing to memorise large amounts of theoretical content.
The NVQ is structured around key units that cover essential health and safety topics, such as:
- Conducting risk assessments
- Investigating and reporting workplace incidents
- Promoting a positive health and safety culture
- Understanding and applying relevant legislation
- Implementing control measures to manage workplace hazards
Since candidates are assessed on their practical skills and their ability to apply health and safety principles in their current job, the difficulty level largely depends on the experience they’ve gained thus far in their career. If you have multiple years of OHS experience, for example, you might find the NVQ process smoother because you’ll need less guidance from your assigned assessor.
Work-Based Learning Makes the NVQ More Manageable
Unlike classroom-based courses, the Level 3 NVQ is completed in your workplace. This means there’s no need to take time off work or attend scheduled classes. Instead, candidates demonstrate their health and safety knowledge through tasks they already perform in their daily role.
Time Commitment for the OHS Level 3 NVQ
The time it takes to complete the NVQ will vary depending on the individual circumstances of the professional undertaking it. With CST Training, candidates can complete the qualification within 4 to 8 weeks, if they are proactive in gathering evidence and submitting it to their online portfolio
However, the flexible nature of the NVQ means that learners can progress at their own pace, making it easier to balance work and study commitments.
Conclusion: Is the OHS Level 3 NVQ Difficult?
The Level 3 NVQ in Occupational Health and Safety isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does require commitment, organisation, and the ability to apply health and safety principles in a real-world setting. The work-based approach makes it a practical and achievable qualification for those who are already working in safety-related roles.
If you still have any questions regarding the NVQ, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
