What level is the NEBOSH General Certificate?

If you’re considering a career in health and safety, or you’re responsible for training others, you've likely come across NEBOSH qualifications.

UK-based awarding body. Its qualifications are some of the most recognised and respected in the world.

The NEBOSH General Certificate, a level 3 qualification comparable to an A Level, is where most people begin their health and safety journey. NEBOSH courses develop knowledge and confidence at every level, helping learners build a strong foundation in workplace health and safety.

Understanding the different NEBOSH qualification levels will help you choose the course that best suits your experience or training needs.

In this article, we’ll explore what the NEBOSH General Certificate covers as a Level 3 qualification, how it fits within the wider NEBOSH framework, and why that matters when deciding your next qualification.

What is a NEBOSH qualification?

A NEBOSH qualification helps learners build knowledge and practical skills in health and safety. Courses combine theory with real-life examples so learners can manage risk confidently and effectively, while meeting legal requirements.

Approved training providers, such as British Safety Council, which is a NEBOSH Gold Learning Partner, deliver a range of NEBOSH qualifications at different levels. These include the NEBOSH National General Certificate and the NEBOSH National Diploma. For those beginning their workplace health and safety journey, IOSH Managing Safely is often the first step. It provides essential awareness and confidence before progressing to study NEBOSH.

Once learners have a basic understanding of workplace safety, many progress to the NEBOSH National General Certificate, a Level 3 course that helps expand existing health and safety knowledge or builds on practical skills.

What level is the NEBOSH General Certificate?

The UK’s education system classifies the NEBOSH National General Certificate as a Level 3 qualification, making it comparable to an A Level. It’s suitable for people new to health and safety management or anyone looking to formalise their work experience.

The course normally takes two weeks in a classroom setting, while digital learners can study at their own pace. The course content covers key topics including:

Managing health and safety effectively
Identifying and controlling common workplace hazards

Understanding UK legal requirements

Evaluating how well safety is being managed

Achieving the NEBOSH National General Certificate also provides a strong foundation for anyone wanting to pursue higher-level HSE qualifications. This includes the NEBOSH National Diploma, which is for learners aiming for senior or specialist health and safety roles.

NEBOSH qualification levels: from Certificates to Diplomas

NEBOSH qualifications provide a clear progression route for those developing their workplace health and safety skills. For individuals seeking introductory awareness training, IOSH Managing Safely is a widely recognised and practical starting point before progressing to studying NEBOSH.

Next is the NEBOSH National General Certificate (Level 3). This qualification is recognised across industries and equips learners with the core skills needed to manage everyday health and safety responsibilities. The course suits anyone who manages, supervises or has health and safety responsibilities. It’s a solid starting point for those entering the health and safety profession.

From here, learners can progress to the NEBOSH Diploma (Level 6). This provides degree-level learning for experienced professionals who lead on health and safety strategy. These qualifications provide a clear learning path for individuals while supporting stronger health and safety performance across organisations.

Choosing the right NEBOSH qualification

Selecting the right qualification level helps ensure the course aligns with career aspirations and workplace needs.

For individuals, the right level builds confidence and supports career progression. For organisations, it helps focus training where it adds the most value and shows a commitment to developing people.

The NEBOSH National General Certificate (Level 3) is ideal for those who manage teams or have day-to-day responsibility for safety. Suitable roles include site supervisors, facilities managers, HR professionals, or operations leads.

It offers a strong introduction to formal health and safety management and is recognised across a wide range of sectors.

Learners gain practical skills that they can apply straight away. These include how to spot hazards, carry out risk assessments and make sure their teams stay safe. For organisations, this means better in-house health and safety capabilities, fewer accidents and a more capable workforce.

Learn more about the benefits of the NEBOSH National General Certificate on our website.

Those leading on strategy or moving into senior roles, such as health and safety advisors, heads of HSE, or directors responsible for risk, would benefit from the NEBOSH Diploma (Level 6). This course offers advanced knowledge and strategic thinking. It helps learners gain the skills and recognition needed to manage health and safety at an organisational level.

British Safety Council offers flexible learning options, including in-company sessions, virtual classroom, and self-paced online study, so you can pick the format that best suits your needs.

Find out more about our NEBOSH courses or get in touch today with any queries.