IOSH launches new member grades structure as it seeks to “future-proof” the profession and ensure members are at the forefront of responding to emerging workplace challenges.
The changes are the culmination of a thorough process which has involved IOSH consulting widely with its members, other professional bodies, recruiters, and global organisations.
There is a direct link between the new grades structure and IOSH’s competency framework, which sets the requirements for OSH knowledge and experience at all levels of the profession. Meanwhile, recognition from business and industry will make it easier for members to progress in their careers.
A new outlook
There are changes to some membership grades, while others will experience little or no change.
IOSH has removed the Associate Member grade and replaced it with Affiliate Member. Meanwhile, the Graduate Member level will transition to Certified Member.
Members currently graded as Associate will have the option to upgrade to Technical or Certified with relevant qualifications and experience, or to Certified or Chartered via the experiential route.
The amends to other grades are:
- Student – members must be studying for an IOSH qualification or equivalent IOSH-accredited qualification
- Chartered and Fellow – members must undertake the IOSH Ethical Practice in OSH e-learning and assessment, and continue to maintain CPD in Blueprint at 30 hours a year.
There is no change for the Technical Member grade, with members still expected to keep their CPD up-to-date by recording 30 hours a year in Blueprint.
Meanwhile, a new ‘experiential’ route through member grades is introduced, which means that members can progress to some levels based on their experience even if they don’t have relevant qualifications.
Thorough process
Nicole Rinaldi, IOSH’s Director of Professional Services, said: “The world of work is changing, and we want to ensure our profession responds to that and is able to adapt to future challenges.
“We want to equip, support and inspire our members to be able to achieve their career goals and to ensure they are in a position to lead the way as businesses navigate through such changes and challenges.
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“Our new membership grades structure is the result of a thorough process and is a significant step forward to future-proofing the profession.”
