How to Pass the IOSH Managing Safely Exam – 15 Expert Tips for Success
The IOSH Managing Safely course is one of the most recognized safety certifications worldwide, designed for managers, supervisors, and anyone responsible for safety in the workplace. Passing this exam not only boosts your career prospects but also equips you with essential skills to manage health and safety effectively.
In this guide, we will break down how to pass the IOSH Managing Safely exam, including study strategies, exam format details, preparation tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
1. Understanding the IOSH Managing Safely Exam Structure
Before preparing, it’s important to know what to expect:
- Part 1: Knowledge Assessment
- 30 multiple-choice questions
- Each question carries 1 mark
- Passing score: 60% (18 out of 30)
- Part 2: Practical Risk Assessment Project
- Conducted in your workplace or a simulated environment
- You must identify hazards, assess risks, and suggest control measures
- Passing score: 60%
✅ Note: You must pass both parts to get the IOSH Managing Safely certificate.
2. Enroll in an Accredited Training Provider
Choose an IOSH-approved training center. The quality of training can make a huge difference in your preparation.
Look for:
- Experienced instructors
- Practical exercises
- Updated study materials
- Good student reviews
🔗 Official IOSH Training Provider Directory
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Syllabus
The IOSH Managing Safely syllabus includes seven modules:
- Introducing Managing Safely
- Assessing Risks
- Controlling Risks
- Understanding Responsibilities
- Understanding Hazards
- Investigating Incidents
- Measuring Performance
✅ Tip: Make a checklist for each module and tick off topics as you master them.
4. Create a Study Schedule
Don’t cram everything at the last minute. Instead:
- Allocate 1–2 hours daily for study
- Use weekends for mock tests
- Review notes before sleeping to boost memory retention
5. Focus on Key Exam Topics
Some topics appear frequently in the exam:
- Risk Assessment Steps (Identify, Evaluate, Control, Review)
- Hierarchy of Controls
- Incident Investigation Process
- Legal Responsibilities of Employers and Employees
- Types of Hazards (Physical, Chemical, Biological, Ergonomic, Psychosocial)
6. Use Past Papers and Mock Tests
Practicing past IOSH exam questions helps you:
- Get used to question styles
- Improve time management
- Identify weak areas
✅ Ask your trainer for sample papers or practice online quizzes.
7. Learn the Risk Assessment Process by Heart
The practical project is often where students lose marks.
Use this Risk Assessment Formula:
Risk Rating = Likelihood × Consequence
Example:
- Likelihood: 3 (Possible)
- Consequence: 4 (Major Injury)
- Risk Rating: 12 (High)
8. Use Mnemonics to Remember Information
Mnemonics help you recall key points. For example:
- ERICPD for control measures: Eliminate, Reduce, Isolate, Control, PPE, Discipline
- IDEA for incident investigation: Information, Data, Evaluation, Action
9. Practice Writing the Practical Report
The practical project requires:
- Identifying hazards (at least 10)
- Assessing risks with ratings
- Suggesting suitable control measures
- Using clear and professional language
✅ Keep sentences short and clear.
10. Understand Common Hazards in Workplaces
Be prepared to identify:
- Slips, Trips, and Falls
- Fire Risks
- Electrical Hazards
- Manual Handling Risks
- Chemical Hazards
The more examples you know, the easier it is to answer scenario-based questions.
11. Time Management During the Exam
- Spend 30–40 seconds per multiple-choice question
- Leave difficult questions and return to them later
- Keep 10 minutes at the end for review
12. Avoid These Common Mistakes
❌ Skipping the practical project until the last minute
❌ Not reading questions carefully
❌ Writing long, irrelevant answers in the project
❌ Failing to include risk ratings
13. Use IOSH-Approved Study Materials
Some recommended resources:
- IOSH Managing Safely Workbook (provided by your trainer)
- NEBOSH and IOSH Safety Handbooks for extra reading
- Online IOSH mock tests
14. Apply What You Learn in Real Life
During training, try to:
- Conduct a mini risk assessment in your workplace
- Identify hazards during site walks
- Discuss safety measures with your team
This will make the practical part easier.
15. Stay Calm and Confident
Confidence comes from preparation. On exam day:
- Arrive early
- Read each question twice
- Keep your answers clear and relevant
Conclusion
Passing the IOSH Managing Safely exam is completely achievable if you:
- Understand the format
- Study regularly
- Practice with mock tests
- Apply knowledge to real-life scenarios
By following these 15 expert tips, you’ll increase your chances of passing on your first attempt and earning a globally recognized certificate that will boost your safety career.
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