What qualifications do I need to be an Occupational Health Technician?
Up until recently the standard route to becoming an occupational health technician was a three day course, unregulated by an awarding body, but could be CPD (continued professional development) accredited. However, the new Level 3 Certificate for Occupational Health Technicians is the only regulated qualification and as it becomes more widely known, employers will likely value any job seekers who hold this qualification.
How long does Occupational Health Technician Training take?
Total qualification time for the Level 3 Certificate for Occupational Health Technicians is 150 hours. Realistically, this equates to a 10 day comprehensive course with some additional online assignments that can be done from home, and a workplace observation to ensure competence. Whilst new entrants to this industry will have to complete the course in full, experienced technicians who can evidence up to date spirometry and audiometry training can apply to enrol on a condensed version of this course.
Why is the Level 3 Certificate for Occupational Health Technicians Important?
The Level 3 Certificate for Occupational Health Technicians (Accredited by Open Awards) is the first, Ofqual regulated qualification for Occupational Health Technicians, developed in association with the Society of Occupational Medicine (SoM), Public Health Wales and Occupational Health Specialists. An accredited qualification recognises learning to a nationally recognised standard, bringing prestige and gravitas to it’s achievement.
What should I look for when choosing an Occupational Health Technician training course?
Some signs of a great training provider are:
- Flexible learning options i.e. they allow you the choice to attend sessions either online or in person.
- Experienced tutors who are transparent with their qualifications.
- They allow you to try out their online learning platform before making any commitments.
- They take an interest in the development of the industry, such as taking part in working groups.
- They allow opportunities for peer networking with other Occupational Health Technicians, actively helping to combat common issues with isolation and loneliness amongst OHTs, and in turn fostering standardisation across the industry.
Should I choose eLearning or a blended classroom learning option?
Whilst eLearning is a sufficient option if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, a blended classroom course whether attended in person or virtually will always be superior for the following reasons.
- Tutor support in real-time. No waiting around for answers to questions, develop a professional relationship with your tutor and get the most from their teaching and experience.
- Peer networking. A classroom course gives you the opportunity to meet and network with occupational health technicians from other backgrounds and industries, which provides added value to broadening your horizons.
- Dedicated learning time. With a structured classroom course, it is easier to manage your schedule and requires less self discipline than self guided eLearning.
How can I enrol on the Level 3 Certificate for Occupational Health Technicians?
To enrol with Compass, simply book yourself on one of our upcoming course dates or get in touch with us at info@compass-ms.co.uk.
