Hi parkers

What sort of Diploma is this?

We often have debates on these Forums between a NEBOSH Diploma (where you wouldn't have to do a "portfolio") and an NVQ (not usually described as a "Diploma", though at the same level) Level 6.

So your question is a bit out of the ordinary and you might get more response if you spell out who runs this particular qualification.

Hi parkers

Thanks for clarifying!

One to discuss with your NVQ Assessor but I would think that the "Qualified Observer" wouldn't need to be a health and safety professional but could equally be someone with a reasonable understanding of the risks associated with what the company does.

There must be plenty of people who are each in an H&S team of one (or even part of one) doing Level 6 NVQs.

Your Assessor might come from a background of say building or manufacture, so wouldn't necessarily be familiar with deciding what are the key risks in YOUR industry. In contrast your MD or line managers should have a good understanding of most of the key problems to be considered including the emerging risks to be considered such as biosecurity risks to the environment.

So, as example, suppose you cut hedges alongside a country lane in Lancashire. Your line managers SHOULD understand there is a risk of operatives being struck by passing traffic. They might not be expert in deciding in exactly what traffic management arrangements to put in place (they ask YOU to advise them on making such decisions) but they should be better placed than a typical Assessor to recognise that particular risk.