Introduction

At Forus Training, we offer multiple QQI courses related to safety at the workplace. The level 5 Safety and Health at Work and level 6 Safety Management are two such courses. They focus on implementing a safe workplace environment and averting workplace health concerns. By contrasting their course material, assessment briefs, and progression routes, we explore below which of the two modules would be best for you if you’re interested in expanding your knowledge and abilities linked to workplace safety.

5N1794 Safety and Health at Work

The Safety and Health at Work course is designed to provide you with detailed knowledge on the role and responsibilities of the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work 2005 Act. It is suitable for those who would like to begin a rewarding career in health or social care. It is also suitable to those wishing to upskill in the area of Health and Safety. You will have an understanding of health and safety legislation upon completion of this course. Furthermore, you will be able to identify and apply the requirements of the legislation to the workplace. Lastly, you will be able to recognise the factors that influence health, safety and welfare.

6N1782 Safety Management

The Safety Management course is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skill and competence to design safety and risk management strategies, supervise implementation and to evaluate workplace safety policies. Upon successful completion of this award you will have the knowledge and information necessary to effectively implement and manage a safe working environment for staff, users and other people.

Safety and Health at Work

This course focuses on the duties of employers and employees as specified in current Safety, Health and Welfare at work legislation. It explores the significance of communication and training in the promotion and provision of health and safety in the workplace. Additionally, it outlines the principles and procedures of good housekeeping in the workplace. Other topics discussed in this programme include:

• Fire Safety Procedures
• Hazards and Risks of Working with Equipment
• Health Issues
• First Aid Kits
• Issues Related to Infection Control
• Manual Handling
• Assessing and Controlling Risks
• Function of the Safety Statemen

Safety Management

This course evaluates the influence of a range of factors in the creation of a safe workplace environment. It also appraises current health and safety legislation in relation to the role and key responsibilities of stakeholders, at all levels of an organisation. It details the principles of risk management and characteristics of a safety statement. You will also learn to design an induction training programme in relation to safety awareness at work. Other topics discussed in this programme include:

• The Legal Responsibilities of Stakeholders
• Safety and Risk Management
• Ergonomics
• Training
• Hazards and Control Strategies
• PPE
• Signage
• Behaviour Modification
• Audits
• Administrative System

The course 5N1794 Safety and Health at Work is assessed in the following ways;

• Assignment 60%
• Examination 40%

The course 6N1782 Safety Management is assessed in the following ways;

• Project 70%
• Examination 30%

Learners who hold a Level 4 Certificate / Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) or who have relevant life experience are eligible to apply for 5N1794 Safety and Health at Work.

Learners who hold a Level 5 Certificate, Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) or who have relevant life experience are eligible to apply for 6N1782 Safety Management.

Completion of 5N1794 Safety and Health at Work leads to a level 5 award on the National Framework of Qualifications, whereas completion of 6N1782 Safety Management leads to a level 6 award on the NFQ.

Students who successfully complete these programmes may use their credits towards completing a higher level of study in the area of Health and Social Care. They can also use the Certificate as the basis for entry into selected courses in Third Level Colleges and Universities.