NEBOSH IGC Full Details: Eligibility, Admission Process, Syllabus, Duration, Exam Pattern, Fees, Passing Marks, Closing Interview, Sample Questions & More
Introduction to NEBOSH IGC
Thinking about a career in health and safety? NEBOSH IGC (International General Certificate) is the first big step. Recognized globally and highly respected in industries like oil & gas, construction, and manufacturing, the NEBOSH IGC prepares you to manage workplace risks and ensure safety standards. Whether you’re looking to change careers or boost your current one, this certificate opens the right doors.
What is NEBOSH IGC?
Full form and importance
NEBOSH stands for National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health. The IGC is one of its most popular qualifications, offering in-depth knowledge of international health and safety standards. It equips learners with the practical skills to manage workplace risks.
Recognition worldwide
The NEBOSH IGC is recognized by:
- IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) – eligibility for Tech IOSH
- IIRSM (International Institute of Risk and Safety Management)
- Many multinational companies across the UK, Middle East, and Asia
Who Should Take the NEBOSH IGC?
Ideal candidates
- Aspiring safety officers or HSE professionals
- Supervisors and managers in hazardous industries
- Engineers and project managers
- Anyone transitioning into health and safety roles
Career advantages
- Higher job prospects in safety-related roles
- Eligibility for advanced NEBOSH diplomas
- Salary increments and promotions
Eligibility for NEBOSH IGC
Educational qualification
There’s no formal educational requirement, but a basic understanding of occupational safety and workplace management is beneficial.
Language requirements
Since the course and exam are in English, candidates should ideally have an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent English proficiency.
Admission Process for NEBOSH IGC
How to apply
- Choose an accredited course provider (online or classroom-based)
- Submit the application with personal and professional details
- Pay the course fee to confirm registration
Documents required
- ID proof (passport or national ID)
- Educational qualifications (if asked)
- Passport-sized photograph
Mode of learning (online/offline)
- Online (eLearning): Flexible and self-paced
- Offline (Classroom): Structured and interactive
- Blended: Combination of both
NEBOSH IGC Syllabus (2025 Updated)
The IGC syllabus is split into two units:
- IG1 – Management of Health and Safety
- IG2 – Risk Assessment
Unit IG1: Management of Health and Safety
Element 1: Why we should manage workplace health and safety
- Moral, legal, and financial reasons
- Impact of poor safety standards
Element 2: How health and safety management systems work and what they look like
- Plan-Do-Check-Act model
- Policy creation, organization, planning, and monitoring
Element 3: Managing risk – understanding people and processes
- Risk assessment steps
- Types of hazards
- Human behavior and safety culture
Element 4: Health and safety monitoring and measuring
- Active and reactive monitoring
- Audits and inspections
- Accident investigations
Unit IG2: Risk Assessment
How to complete a practical risk assessment
- Choose a realistic workplace scenario
- Identify hazards, assess risks, and suggest control measures
- Create a report based on NEBOSH guidance
Element 5: Physical and Psychological Health
This element covers:
- Noise
- Vibration
- Radiation
- Stress at work
- Fatigue
- Violence at the workplace
- Bullying and harassment
👉 You’ll need to identify these hazards and evaluate how they affect employees’ physical and mental well-being.
Element 6: Musculoskeletal Health
This includes:
- Manual handling
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Awkward postures
- Display screen equipment (DSE) risks
- Ergonomics in the workplace
👉 You’re expected to spot poor practices and suggest ergonomic improvements or mechanical aids.
Element 7: Chemical and Biological Agents
Covers:
- Exposure to harmful chemicals (gases, vapors, dust, fumes)
- COSHH regulations
- Routes of entry into the body
- Biological hazards (e.g., bacteria, viruses)
- Health surveillance and safe storage
👉 Risk assessment should include proper labeling, PPE, and safe handling procedures.
Element 8: General Workplace Issues
Focuses on:
- Housekeeping
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Working at height
- Welfare facilities
- Lighting and ventilation
- Temperature control
👉 Observations should be made about walkways, stairs, storage areas, and cleanliness.
Element 9: Work Equipment
Includes:
- Hazards from machinery and equipment
- Guarding mechanisms
- Safe use of hand tools and portable appliances
- LOTO (Lock Out Tag Out) procedures
- Maintenance routines and operator training
👉 Make sure equipment is inspected, properly maintained, and safe to use.
Element 10: Fire
Fire risk assessment includes:
- Sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen (fire triangle)
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Escape routes and emergency plans
- Firefighting equipment (extinguishers, sprinklers)
- Training and evacuation drills
👉 You must assess the adequacy of fire precautions and suggest improvements.
Element 11: Electricity
Electrical safety focuses on:
- Electric shock hazards
- Overloaded circuits
- Use of extension leads
- PAT testing
- Earthing and insulation
- Isolation of electrical equipment
👉 Highlight risks of electrocution, fire, or damage due to faulty electrical systems.
Duration of NEBOSH IGC
Typical course duration
- Standard pace: 6–8 weeks
- Fast-track: 2–3 weeks (intensive classes)
Fast-track vs regular schedule
Choose fast-track only if you can dedicate full-time attention. Regular schedule is ideal for working professionals.
NEBOSH IGC Exam Pattern
Open Book Exam Format
- IG1 is a scenario-based, open book exam
- Can be taken from home with access to resources
IG1 – Scenario-based assessment
- You’ll receive a workplace scenario
- Asked to respond to tasks/questions based on the scenario
IG2 – Practical risk assessment
- Conduct a real-world risk assessment
- Submit your findings using the NEBOSH risk assessment template
Closing interview process
- 15–30 minute virtual interview
- Purpose: Verify authenticity and understanding
- Conducted after you submit IG1 and IG2
NEBOSH IGC Passing Marks
Minimum score required
- IG1: 45 marks out of 100 (pass)
- IG2: Pass/fail based on practical completion
How results are calculated
- NEBOSH uses a grading system:
- Pass: 45–64
- Credit: 65–74
- Distinction: 75+
NEBOSH IGC Course Fees
Average global pricing
- UK/Europe: £450–£700
- Middle East/India: $400–$650 (INR 35,000–55,000)
Country-wise fee comparison
Fees vary depending on location and course provider. Online courses may be cheaper.
Inclusions and exclusions
Check whether fees include:
- Study materials
- Registration
- Exam fees
- Tutor support
NEBOSH IGC Closing Interview
What to expect
- Held on Zoom or similar platform
- Duration: 15–30 minutes
- Questions based on your exam answers and workplace
How to prepare
- Be honest and review your answers beforehand
- Stay confident and clear
Tips to Pass the NEBOSH IGC Exam
Study strategies
- Break the syllabus into chunks
- Use NEBOSH-approved textbooks
- Practice past questions
Time management
- Don’t rush through the open book exam
- Allocate time for reading, planning, and writing
Avoiding common mistakes
- Don’t copy-paste from books or internet
- Avoid vague, generic answers
10 Sample NEBOSH IGC Questions and Answers
Sample IG1 Questions
- Q: What are the three main reasons for managing health and safety?
A: Moral, legal, and financial reasons. - Q: Define ‘hazard’ and give two examples.
A: A hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm. Examples: slippery floors, faulty wiring. - Q: What is the purpose of active monitoring?
A: To check if the safety system is working before incidents occur. - Q: What is meant by ‘safety culture’?
A: Shared attitudes, beliefs, and values towards health and safety in an organization. - Q: Explain the term ‘risk assessment’.
A: It’s the process of identifying hazards and evaluating risks to determine appropriate controls.
Sample IG2 Questions
- Q: What steps should you follow in a risk assessment?
A: Identify hazards, evaluate risks, record findings, implement controls. - Q: How do you determine who might be harmed?
A: Consider workers, visitors, contractors, and vulnerable groups. - Q: What are control measures?
A: Actions to eliminate or reduce risks, like using PPE or machine guards. - Q: What should a risk assessment report include?
A: Description of task, identified hazards, people at risk, and control measures. - Q: Why is reviewing the assessment important?
A: To ensure controls remain effective and up to date.
1. Question:
Explain why it is important for an organization to consult with workers on health and safety matters. (10 marks)
Answer:
Worker consultation is essential for several reasons:
- Legal Requirement: In many jurisdictions, including under the ILO conventions and national laws, consulting workers is a legal obligation.
- Improved Risk Identification: Workers often understand operational risks better since they perform the tasks regularly.
- Enhanced Compliance: When workers are involved, they are more likely to comply with safety procedures because they had input in developing them.
- Boosts Morale and Engagement: Employees feel valued when their opinions are considered, increasing job satisfaction and productivity.
- Early Detection of Issues: Frontline workers can identify hazards before they escalate, allowing preventive action.
- Better Communication: It fosters an open dialogue, reducing resistance to changes in safety policies or procedures.
- Cultural Development: Involving employees helps build a positive health and safety culture where everyone is responsible for safety.
2. Question:
Outline the principles of the hierarchy of control and provide one example of each level. (10 marks)
Answer:
The hierarchy of control prioritizes risk control methods from most to least effective:
- Elimination (Most Effective): Completely remove the hazard.
- Example: Replace a solvent-based paint with a water-based alternative.
- Substitution: Replace the hazard with a less dangerous one.
- Example: Substitute a toxic chemical with a non-toxic or less hazardous one.
- Engineering Controls: Isolate people from the hazard.
- Example: Use guardrails to prevent falls from heights.
- Administrative Controls: Change the way people work.
- Example: Implement job rotation to reduce repetitive strain injuries.
- Personal Protective Equipment (Least Effective): Protect the worker with PPE.
- Example: Use of gloves, goggles, or hearing protection.
Each control level should be considered in order, and multiple controls may be used in combination for effective risk reduction.
3. Question:
Explain why health and safety management systems are important in the workplace. (10 marks)
Answer:
Health and safety management systems are vital because they:
- Provide Structure: Establish policies, procedures, and responsibilities for managing risks.
- Legal Compliance: Help ensure the organization meets its legal duties under health and safety laws.
- Incident Reduction: Reduce accidents and ill-health through proactive hazard identification and risk management.
- Continuous Improvement: Enable ongoing performance monitoring, audits, and review for better outcomes.
- Reputation Management: Prevents costly fines, prosecution, and damage to corporate image.
- Worker Involvement: Encourages employee participation, boosting safety culture.
- Operational Efficiency: Minimizes downtime and insurance costs by preventing accidents and injuries.
Standards such as ISO 45001 provide a framework for these systems.
4. Question:
Identify common causes of workplace fires and suggest appropriate control measures. (10 marks)
Answer:
Common Causes of Fires:
- Electrical faults: Overloaded circuits, damaged cables.
- Hot work activities: Welding, cutting.
- Flammable substances: Improper storage or handling.
- Smoking materials: Discarded cigarette butts.
- Poor housekeeping: Waste accumulation near ignition sources.
Control Measures:
- PAT Testing and Inspections: Regularly check and maintain electrical equipment.
- Hot Work Permits: Ensure proper supervision and controls like fire blankets and extinguishers.
- Safe Storage: Store flammables in fire-resistant containers and cabinets.
- Smoking Policies: Provide designated areas with safe disposal bins.
- Housekeeping: Keep areas clean, especially near heat sources.
- Training and Drills: Regular fire training and evacuation drills.
- Detection Systems: Install smoke alarms and sprinkler systems.
5. Question:
Discuss the impact that poor health and safety standards can have on an organization. (10 marks)
Answer:
Poor standards lead to serious consequences:
- Increased Accidents and Illnesses: Leading to injuries, fatalities, and lost work time.
- Legal Penalties: Prosecutions, fines, or imprisonment for breaches of legislation.
- Financial Losses: Due to downtime, compensation claims, and increased insurance premiums.
- Damage to Reputation: Negative media attention affects customer trust and business relationships.
- Low Employee Morale: Unsafe conditions lead to dissatisfaction, absenteeism, and high staff turnover.
- Operational Disruptions: Investigations and closures by enforcement agencies.
- Productivity Decline: Accidents disrupt workflows and reduce efficiency.
A proactive safety culture protects people and profits.
6. Question:
Outline the key features of an effective emergency evacuation plan. (10 marks)
Answer:
An effective plan should include:
- Clear Responsibilities: Assign fire marshals and evacuation coordinators.
- Alarm System: Audible and visible alarms to warn all occupants.
- Escape Routes: Clearly marked, well-lit, unobstructed paths to exits.
- Assembly Point: A safe location where staff regroup and are accounted for.
- Disabled Access: Consideration for people with mobility challenges.
- Training and Drills: Regular fire drills to reinforce procedures.
- Emergency Contacts: Clear display of contact details for fire services.
- Shutdown Procedures: Safe shutdown of equipment if necessary.
- Emergency Kit: Fire extinguishers, first aid, and high-vis vests for marshals.
- Review: Regular reviews and updates based on changes or lessons learned.
7. Question:
Explain why reporting and investigating near-miss incidents is important. (10 marks)
Answer:
Near-miss reporting is a proactive tool:
- Prevention of Accidents: Identifies underlying hazards before they result in harm.
- Root Cause Analysis: Helps determine weaknesses in systems, training, or equipment.
- Continuous Improvement: Feeds into management reviews to enhance safety controls.
- Legal Defense: Demonstrates a proactive safety culture in case of future incidents.
- Employee Engagement: Involving staff in safety builds ownership and vigilance.
- Cost Savings: Prevents costly injuries or damage by addressing early warnings.
- Trends and Patterns: Helps spot recurring issues that require long-term solutions.
Encouraging a no-blame culture ensures workers report freely.
8. Question:
Identify and explain the steps of a risk assessment process. (10 marks)
Answer:
The 5-step risk assessment process includes:
- Identify Hazards: Observe tasks, equipment, and substances to spot anything with potential to cause harm.
- Decide Who Might Be Harmed and How: Include employees, contractors, visitors, and vulnerable groups.
- Evaluate Risks and Decide on Precautions: Assess likelihood and severity, and implement controls based on the hierarchy.
- Record Findings and Implement Them: Document significant findings and ensure control measures are followed.
- Review and Update: Regularly revisit assessments, especially after incidents or changes in work conditions.
Proper documentation demonstrates due diligence.
9. Question:
Outline the factors that could affect the health and safety culture within an organization. (10 marks)
Answer:
Factors include:
- Leadership Commitment: Management behavior directly influences employee attitudes.
- Communication: Clear and open channels ensure everyone understands safety expectations.
- Employee Involvement: Workers are more committed when they contribute to safety decisions.
- Training and Competence: Well-trained staff are confident and capable in following procedures.
- Incident Reporting: Encouraging openness without fear of blame builds trust.
- Visible Enforcement: Consistent discipline for rule-breaking reinforces accountability.
- Workload and Pressure: Unrealistic deadlines can cause shortcuts and increased risks.
- Resources: Budget allocation for PPE, training, and equipment maintenance shows safety is valued.
Culture shapes behavior, which shapes safety outcomes.
10. Question:
Explain the duties of an employer under the ILO Convention 155. (10 marks)
Answer:
Under ILO Convention 155, employers are required to:
- Provide a Safe Workplace: Ensure the working environment does not pose risks to health and safety.
- Inform and Train Employees: Provide clear instructions and health and safety training.
- Establish Policies: Develop and implement a safety policy, reviewed regularly.
- Consult with Workers: Engage employees or their representatives on safety matters.
- Provide PPE: Supply suitable protective gear where risks can’t be eliminated.
- Monitor Health and Safety: Maintain surveillance systems to detect hazards.
- Maintain Equipment: Ensure all machinery and tools are safe to use.
- Take Preventive Measures: Eliminate risks at the source where possible.
- Record Keeping: Maintain records of accidents, exposures, and safety inspections.
- Report Incidents: Notify authorities about major incidents as per legal obligations.
These duties create a foundation for national occupational health and safety systems.
Career Opportunities After NEBOSH IGC
Industries hiring NEBOSH holders
- Oil & Gas
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Government bodies
Job roles available
- HSE Officer
- Safety Auditor
- Site Safety Supervisor
- Health & Safety Manager
Benefits of NEBOSH IGC Certification
Professional recognition
- Eligible for memberships like Tech IOSH and AIIRSM
Safety leadership boost
- Enhances your skills to lead safety culture within an organization
Conclusion
The NEBOSH IGC is more than just a certificate—it’s a gateway to a fulfilling, respected, and global career in health and safety. Whether you’re starting out or leveling up, this qualification provides you the tools to make a real difference. With the 2025 syllabus, open-book exams, and risk-based learning, it’s never been more accessible. So, are you ready to become the next safety hero in your workplace?
Best HSE Certifications for Career Growth (NEBOSH, IOSH, OSHA)
FAQs
1. What is the validity of NEBOSH IGC?
The certificate does not expire, but staying updated with industry trends is advisable.
2. Can I take NEBOSH IGC without experience?
Yes, prior experience is not mandatory.
3. Is NEBOSH IGC tough to pass?
With proper preparation, it’s manageable. The open-book format also helps.
4. Can I do NEBOSH IGC online?
Yes, many accredited centers offer full online training and exams.
5. How long does it take to get NEBOSH results?
Results are typically released within 50 working days after the exam.
