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 in order 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.

 Knowledge Modules:
 • Fundamentals of Occupational Health and Safety
 • Fundamentals of Communication
 • Occupational Health and Safety applications
 • Occupational Health and Safety Management
 • Operations Management and Supervision

 Practical Modules:
 • Represent the needs of employees with regard to Occupational Health and Safety 
matters 
• Inspect workplaces, identify hazards and risks and take immediate action to ensure 
health and safety in the workplace
 • Consult with employees and raise their needs and issues
 • Inspect workplaces and environments to identify the occupational health and safety 
hazards and determine the risks associated with the work 
• Coordinate the work activities of occupational, health and safety representatives
 • Develop a risk profile and legal register for a designated work area 
• Establish, maintain and improve the health and safety documentation and reporting 
systems, controls and processes 
• Advise on the establishment maintenance and improvement of emergency response 
and preparedness 
• Manage the effectiveness of operational Occupational Health and Safety systems

 Workplace Module:
 • Exposure to the workplace examination processes
 • Exposure to the processes of representing the occupational health and safety needs 
of employees
 • Exposure to occupational risk management processes
 • Exposure to the processes of selecting, appointing and managing occupational health 
and safety representatives
 • Exposure to the processes of developing and implementing occupational health and 
safety systems
 • Exposure to the processes of monitoring and improving occupational health and 
safety systems

Compulsory National EISA Exam (External Integrated Summative Assessment) The EISA conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The EISA will focus on the exit level outcomes and associated assessment criteria. The learner will write the national exam at an accredited assessment centre.