The principal qualification at the Intermediate level is the International Occupational Hygiene Certificate

The International Occupational Hygiene Certificate

The certificate demonstrates technical knowledge and practical skills in identifying health hazards, assessing occupational exposure and testing control measures. It is suitable for technicians and technologists who carry out measurements and testing in workplaces.The qualification has been designed so that it can be recognised by national associations as contributing to their own requirements for accreditation.

Studying for the Intermediate level

You can work towards the International Certificate by studying OHTA Intermediate modules.  These are designed as 5-day taught courses that provide practical, hands-on training. Students are taught in small groups by Approved Training Providers and the courses are very interactive with workshops and exercises. On completion of each module, you will receive an Award of Successful Course Completion for that module.

To obtain the International Certificate, you must complete six modules, including four core subjects and two others chosen from three options:

Core subjects

• W501 Measurement of Hazardous Substances
• W503 Noise - Measurement and its Effects
• W505 Control of Hazardous Substances
• W507 Health Effects of Hazardous Substances

Optional subjects

• W502 Thermal Environment
• W504 Asbestos and Other Fibres
• W506 Ergonomics Essentials

We anticipate that further optional modules will be developed (see the OHTA Community pages for more detail.)

Once you have completed six modules, you can progress to the award by completing a Personal Learning Portfolio. During the courses you are required to demonstrate that you can carry out basic practical assessments under the supervision of course tutors. To meet the aims of the intermediate level courses and for you to reach the required level of technical and practical skill you will continue to develop those skills through practical experience in the work environment. You will need to collect evidence which demonstrates you have applied your knowledge in practical situations. This will be documented in your Personal Learning Portfolio. Full details on completing your Personal Learning Portfolio can be found in the Student Guide. You should start compiling your portfolio as early as possible after completing your first OHlearning course. Once you have completed your portfolio you can apply for your intermediate level interview for the award of the International Certificate.

The Student Guide and editable copies of the Registration Form, PLP front cover, PLP experience record and PLP further learning record can downloaded from the Downloads section of this page.

Note: You must complete and return a Personal Learning Portfolio registration form to your Examining Body as soon as you start compiling your portfolio. A copy of the registration form can be found in Appendix 2 of the Student Guide.

Other routes to the International Certificate

For students with different needs, there are alternative ways to achieve the International Certificate:

• By taking an approved university degree course which provides exemption from studying the modules. Normally the student will still need to complete the Personal Learning Portfolio.
• By personal application with evidence of other qualifications that are shown to have the same learning outcomes as the intermediate level international courses. The student will need to complete a Personal Learning Portfolio and may be asked to attend an interview.

Prior learning

Anyone without prior training or experience of occupational hygiene is strongly advised to study the Foundation level before attempting the Intermediate modules.  To help with your decision, we suggest you review the syllabus and student manual for the Principles course.

What should I do next?

Downloads

• Student Guide (pdf file)
• PLP Registration Form (MS Word file)
• PLP Front Cover (MS Word file)
• PLP Experience Record Sheet (MS Word File)
• PLP Further Learning Record Sheet (MS Word file)

How to start your PLP 

1. Complete the PLP Registration form and return it to your local Examining Body. A list of participating Examining Bodies can be found here - Participating Examining Bodies.
2. Read the Student Guide for advice on completing your Experience and Further Learning record sheets. 
3. Start compiling your PLP.