ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH
The ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) is a vital qualification for anyone working in environments where hazardous substances are used, handled, or stored. This course provides essential knowledge and awareness of the risks associated with chemical exposure and offers practical guidance on how to control those risks in accordance with health and safety legislation in the UK.
Designed to meet industry standards, this qualification introduces learners to the core principles of COSHH and ensures they are prepared to support a safer and more compliant working environment. Whether in healthcare, cleaning, construction, manufacturing, or beauty industries, understanding how to manage hazardous substances is crucial for reducing risk and maintaining workplace safety.
The ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH offers a clear and concise introduction to the safe handling of hazardous substances. It covers legal responsibilities, common substance types, risk assessment, and the importance of control measures such as ventilation, storage protocols, and use of personal protective equipment.
Learners will develop the confidence and competence to recognize potential risks and take appropriate action to reduce exposure, protecting both themselves and others. The course is suitable for those new to COSHH responsibilities or those seeking to reinforce their understanding of workplace chemical safety.
The ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH is ideal for learners working in any environment where hazardous substances are present. From cleaning staff and laboratory technicians to warehouse operatives and salon workers, this course delivers essential training that helps reduce risks and ensure compliance.
Delivered through structured instruction and practical examples, the course is designed to be both accessible and impactful. Learners will leave with a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the knowledge required to work safely with chemicals and hazardous materials.
Level 1 Award in COSHH
To enroll in the ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH, learners must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 16 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- Educational Background: There are no formal academic qualifications required. However, a basic understanding of the English language is necessary to comprehend course materials, safety instructions, and assessment tasks.
- Experience: No prior experience in health and safety or chemical handling is required. This course is designed as an introductory qualification and is suitable for those new to COSHH responsibilities or workplace safety training.
These requirements are intended to make the course widely accessible while maintaining the standards necessary for successful learning and application.
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Introduction to COSHH and Legal Responsibilities
- Recognising Hazardous Substances and Their Health Effects
- Basic Control Measures and Safe Handling Practices
Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:
Introduction to COSHH and Legal Responsibilities
- Understand the purpose and scope of COSHH regulations
- Identify the legal responsibilities of employers and employees under COSHH
- Recognise the importance of complying with chemical safety legislation
- Explain how COSHH fits within overall workplace health and safety practices
Recognising Hazardous Substances and Their Health Effects
- Identify different types of hazardous substances found in various work environments
- Understand routes of exposure and how substances can enter the body
- Recognise short-term and long-term health effects of common hazardous substances
- Interpret hazard symbols and warning labels according to international standards
Basic Control Measures and Safe Handling Practices
- Apply basic control measures to reduce the risk of exposure to hazardous substances
- Demonstrate safe storage, handling, and disposal procedures
- Understand the purpose and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Follow organisational procedures for working safely with chemicals
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 1 Award in COSHH provides learners with a strong foundation in hazardous substance awareness and safe handling practices. This qualification not only supports compliance with UK health and safety regulations but also enhances the professional development of individuals working across multiple industries. It opens the door to further learning and career advancement in health and safety management, chemical handling, and workplace compliance.
By gaining essential knowledge at Level 1, learners are well-positioned to continue their development through higher-level training and specialist courses that strengthen their ability to manage risk and promote safe working environments.
Progression Pathways:
- Advancing to the ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH, which provides deeper understanding of risk assessments, control strategies, and incident response
- Progressing to the ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in COSHH, ideal for supervisory roles and individuals responsible for overseeing hazardous substance compliance
- Pursuing other safety-focused qualifications such as the ICTQual AB Level 2 or 3 Awards in Health & Safety at Workplace
- Exploring industry-specific safety courses such as chemical storage safety, spill response, or environmental risk management
- Developing career paths in roles such as health and safety assistant, compliance support officer, or workplace safety coordinator
By continuing their professional training, learners can increase their value to employers, enhance workplace safety, and contribute meaningfully to a culture of compliance and risk prevention.
