Saturday, November 23, 2013

Employers looking for qualifications in certain industries


by Marge Jenkins


The health and safety (H&S) industry has experienced a growth rate over the last 10 years. A lot more positions are currently available. New research indicates that another area has experienced a large growth rate also; applicants without the pre-requisite job qualifications. Employers recognise this trend and no longer grant interviews to non-qualified applicants.

H&S employers know the credentials that potential employees need to perform their duties. They have improved their hiring practices to the level that only three in 100 nationally advertised vacancies do not specify necessary qualifications for the positions. This increased awareness is supported by a 2011 National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) Job Barometer.

A two week 2011 examination, March 23rd to April 6th, of 100 H&S job advertisements for managers and advisors was performed by NEBOSH personnel. They found 93 of the 100 announcements specified a requirement for a NEBOSH qualification and/or a Technician level or higher membership in the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Within those 93, at least one NEBOSH qualification was mentioned on 66 job advertisements

There are three levels of IOSH membership, Tech IOSH, Grad IOSH and Charter Membership (CMIOSH). All three membership levels require accredited qualifications. Of the 100 advertisements examined 48 mentioned qualifications involving various levels of IOSH membership. Tech IOSH was referenced in five positions, Grad IOSH was specified for 17 positions and the remaining 26 positions specified CMIOSH.

Of the 100 announcements, the average top salary was £45,000 per year. The job vacancies were diversified regarding employment work locations. The top two geographical work areas were in London and in the Home Counties and South East, being 29% and 28% respectively. 39% were spread across the rest of the country. The remaining 4% were flexible on a precise employment site. The majority of the jobs had travel requirements that covered the UK and overseas locations. Vast employment opportunities in so many locations indicate good prospects for individuals with suitable qualifications.

Anyone seeking an H&S job in the UK without qualifications will have a tough time. Serious candidates can improve their skills by getting NEBOSH qualified from an accredited training facility. Employers will find there is always a need to enhance the skills of their workers. They can upgrade employee skills by sending them for advanced training.

The 2011 NEBOSH Job Barometer revealed additional H&S occupationally desired skills. Environmental management responsibilities were in 62% of the announcements, a 7% increase from Aril 2010. Job titles referring to environment saw a one year increase of 11% to 53% in 2011. Other job titles and responsibilities listed quality, facilities, risk management, assurance, and well-being.

The 100 job advertisements examined in the 2011 study was small but detailed. The results were a good representation of the current H&S workplace. There is increased awareness of the need to have the right qualifications. Employers are ensuring they have qualified personnel to perform risk assessments. Individuals in this career field need to understand what different certificates are needed, what certificates they personally need and where to acquire those certificates of training.




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