Posted By ts1 Hi. I have been employed in the insurance industry for a little over 20 years, dealing with liability claims. I investigate claims - primarily injuries to employee and visitors to premises - and prepare detailed reports assessing the circumstances, whether suitable risk assessments have been prepared and acted upon, whether workplace regulations have been complied with, the impact of any breaches, etc and obtain statements for use at court. I have never held a h&s job as such but would be very interested in getting into that area. I would hope that I have transferable skills and experience although my experience is looking at things retrospectively. I am considering studying for the Nebosh national diploma and ideally would like to seek work in the field whilst studying. What I am unsure of is whether there would be any possibility of securing work prior to obtaining the diploma that would pay half-decently (to keep roof over my head!) and where I would be best looking for such employment - are recruitment agencies used heavily in this field, are there many jobs with say local authorities, hse, or the like, etc. Any comments or advice people can give would be great.

Posted By AMelrose Hi I think you might find it difficult to obtain a job in Health and Safety without at least one qualification (such as the Nebosh certificate) relating to the subject. Do you have any qualifications in related topics e.g. ergonomics etc that you could relate to the work you have already undertaken? You'll probably have read that people are starting to find it more difficult to keep / get a job in H&S at the moment (from the other posters on the forum). Employers will likely be looking for experience and qualifications but if you were putting together a really good covering letter you may swing an interview with your experience but they may not be willing to pay out for any course you may require.. Could you stay within the job you are / were doing until you graduate as that way you'd be in a better position and could use case studies (names / locations / dates etc changed) for you studies? Good luck!

Posted By A Campbell ts1 If you have never been directly involved in H&S roles, then the NVQ Level 4 route will be very difficult to achieve. Simply due to the fact it is an evidence based system... where could you gain evidence of requirements/projects if not dealing with H&S issues?

Posted By Raymond Rapp Alternatively you could stay in your present role and still do a qualification in h&s. I completed my first Masters whilst still a train driver. Once I graduated I looked for a good role and with a bona fide qualification it was not so difficult. I believe many of the skills you have learnt will be transferable and I suspect you will prove to be an asset for the right employer.

Posted By Steve M Granger Hi ts -find your local branch (look on the LHS menu for branches)and go along to their meeting. Should be no cost and free tea! You will find a very helpful person called Beda. Mr/Mrs Beda (Branch Education & Development Adviser)should point you towards quals / providers and determine some options for you in your locality. You may also find there are others from your background who you can ask about career paths. Steve