ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH
The ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) is a UK-aligned qualification designed to give learners practical knowledge of how to manage hazardous substances safely in the workplace. It is suitable for individuals who already have basic health and safety awareness and want to develop a deeper understanding of chemical safety and risk control.
This course helps learners understand how COSHH regulations are applied in real working environments. It focuses on identifying hazardous substances, assessing risks, and applying appropriate control measures to protect workers’ health. It is especially relevant for industries such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, laboratories, cleaning, and maintenance where exposure to harmful substances may occur.
The qualification also introduces learners to important topics such as safety data sheets, safe handling and storage of chemicals, and workplace exposure limits. It combines theory with practical understanding, helping learners apply COSHH principles effectively in daily work situations.
By completing the ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH, learners can improve their workplace safety skills and support compliance with UK health and safety standards. It also provides a strong foundation for progressing to higher-level COSHH or health and safety qualifications and advancing in safety-related career roles.
Level 2 Award in COSHH
To enroll in the ICTQual AB Level 2 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 English is necessary to follow course materials, understand safety instructions, and complete assessments.
- Experience: While prior experience is not mandatory, it is recommended that learners have either completed a Level 1 COSHH or health and safety qualification, or have some practical experience in environments where hazardous substances are handled.
- Language Proficiency:Learners should have basic English skills (CEFR Level A2 or equivalent) to understand training materials, safety instructions, and complete assessments.
These requirements are designed to make the course accessible while ensuring that learners are adequately prepared to meet the course’s learning objectives.
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH, consists of 5 mandatory units.
- Legal Framework and Employer/Employee Duties under COSHH
- Classification, Labelling, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Risk Assessment for Hazardous Substances
- Implementation of Control Measures and Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Emergency Procedures, Spill Response, and Incident Reporting
Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:
Legal Framework and Employer/Employee Duties under COSHH
- Understand the key legal requirements of COSHH regulations in the workplace
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of employers and employees in ensuring chemical safety
- Explain the importance of compliance with national and workplace COSHH procedures
- Recognise the consequences of failing to meet COSHH legal duties
Classification, Labelling, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Interpret hazard symbols and labelling according to current classification systems
- Understand the purpose and structure of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Identify key information on an SDS related to safe use, storage, and handling
- Use classification and labelling to determine appropriate control measures
Risk Assessment for Hazardous Substances
- Understand the steps involved in a COSHH-specific risk assessment
- Identify hazardous substances and assess their potential impact on health
- Recommend appropriate control strategies based on assessment findings
- Review and revise risk assessments as needed to reflect changes in use or environment
Implementation of Control Measures and Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Apply suitable control measures to reduce or eliminate chemical risks
- Select and use the appropriate PPE for different types of hazardous substances
- Understand the limitations, maintenance, and correct storage of PPE
- Monitor the effectiveness of control measures and adjust as necessary
Emergency Procedures, Spill Response, and Incident Reporting
- Respond appropriately to chemical spills and accidental exposure
- Implement workplace emergency procedures in accordance with COSHH requirements
- Report and record incidents accurately using internal reporting systems
- Contribute to post-incident review and improvement of safety procedures
The ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH equips learners with the practical skills and regulatory understanding needed to manage hazardous substances safely and effectively. As workplace safety standards continue to rise across industries, this qualification enhances a learner’s potential for career advancement and further professional development.
With this recognized Level 2 qualification, learners are better prepared to take on supervisory responsibilities, support workplace compliance, and contribute to a safer working environment. It also serves as a solid foundation for further study in occupational health and safety.
Progression Pathways:
- Advancing to the ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in COSHH, focusing on safety leadership, policy development, and performance auditing
- Progressing to higher-level health and safety qualifications that cover broader risk management strategies
- Undertaking industry-specific safety training, such as environmental safety, chemical handling protocols, or hazardous waste management
- Moving into supervisory or compliance support roles, particularly in manufacturing, healthcare, laboratories, and facilities management
- Gaining eligibility for roles such as COSHH coordinator, safety officer, or health and safety team lead
- Continuing with professional development programme that strengthen leadership in workplace safety
By building on the knowledge and competencies gained from the ICTQual AB Level 2 Award in COSHH, learners can take meaningful steps toward a career focused on safety, compliance, and responsible chemical management.