Hi Martin, You will doubtless get many a response to your question, some of which may be heated. However, as always, the question of whether or not you are competent can only ever be truly answered in court, which of course none of us want. For a fair indicator, try getting some quotes for insurance based on your skill set and what it is you propose to do. If no one will insure you, you will have the best answer your likely to get. And good luck :-)

Martin: To be blunt, what matters most is how you will find work. Being technically competent will not help you in this respect. You can be the most competent practitioner out but if you can't find a way of getting contracts or charging enough to make it financially viable, it's all been for nothing. I've met many qualified practitioners who are well qualified, but can't write a professional report or use a computer efficiently, let alone run a business, deal with PAYE and VAT etc. etc. With your current qualifications, I'm sure you know the limits of your competence, but being a consultant requires much more than just having a CMIOSH. Hope this helps Dave

Hi Martin, What was it they taught us in Nebosh about competence ? SKATE or look no further than a girl called KATE. With your qualifications I think you have a good yardstick to judge if you can SKATE.

Martin The fact that you need to ask the question raises some doubts. One of the attributes of a safety adviser is to know your limits, and not to over step them. In my case, for example, I would be comfortable carrying out fire risk assessments in some premises, but not in others. It sounds as if you have put a lot of work in to gain the necessary underpinnning knowledge. Experience will tell you the rest. I agree with the point about producing articulate, concise reports. I have also thought about going into consultancy, but I'm not sure if the sales and marketing side appeal to me. Do not rely on validation by others, as there is no definitive answer.