A new Occupational Health Technician (OHT) qualification has been launched offering professional development opportunities for individuals wanting to move into occupational health or OHTs who want to increase their skills.
The Open Awards Level 3 Certificate for Occupational Health Technicians has been developed with the support of SOM, and experienced Occupational Health Professionals, including practicing Occupational Health Practitioners (under whose supervision this role operates).
This qualification enables increased skills and knowledge for OHTs. The qualification focuses on the essential skills and knowledge required to fulfil the role of an OHT, combining both principles and practice, and is mapped to an OHT Training Curriculum.
Janet O’Neill from the National School of Occupational Health said: “It is wonderful to be see this new qualification for OHTs; to raise aspiration and support capacity development in occupational health.”
Nick Pahl, CEO at SOM said: “The new qualification is a game changer in clarifying the core educational needs for OHTs. It enables OHTs to gain theoretical knowledge and reflect on and develop their practice. It is a starting point in terms of working in occupational health as they develop and progress in their OH career.”
Contact Open Awards if you wish to become a provider of this qualification.
This qualification builds on SOM's OHT special interest group which has agreed a scope of practice of Occupational Health Technicians and Career Path of OH Technicians. In 2021, SOM worked with OHTs to define their skills and, following a review by SOM Council 2021, they are invited to self-assess against a matrix here (please review and then get signed off by a supervisor who should ideally be an Occupational Health Adviser or Occupational Medicine Physician). The Group has also agreed a code of conduct and Escalation Criteria.