A small figure wearing a yellow hard hat and a blue shirt stands on the top step of white stairs, holding a blue clipboard against a red background.

Health & Safety Awards support learners at different stages of their workplace training. The Level 1 Award in Health and Safety Awareness introduces the essential principles of staying safe at work – making it ideal for those who are new to employment or have limited experience of Health & Safety practices. Building on this foundation, the Level 2 Award in Health and Safety within the Workplace provides a deeper understanding of legal responsibilities, common workplace hazards and practical risk-prevention measures.

A woman stands next to a flip chart presentation about 'Health and Safety for Computer Operators', while a man seated in a wheelchair points to the chart during a training session.

Whatever job you’re looking for, employers value candidates who understand how to work safely, follow procedures and reduce risks – because it means they require less training and can be trusted to act responsibly in the workplace.

In sectors such as construction, warehousing, hospitality, retail, manufacturing and care, Health & Safety knowledge is essential. For jobs involving manual work or higher-risk environments, having a Health & Safety qualification is usually a requirement.

“I never realised how many industries value strong health and safety knowledge – it helps me stand out when I apply for jobs.”

The Level 1 Award covers areas such as:

  • The process of risk assessment
  • The definition of hazard, risk and near miss
  • Identification of common hazards
  • Basic control measures such as PPE and signage
  • Finding Health & Safety information in and outside the workplace
Four restaurant staff members in uniform are gathered indoors; one is holding a clipboard and briefing the team.

The Level 2 Award builds on this core knowledge with topics including:

  • Duties and responsibilities of employers and employees
  • Benefits of good Health & Safety in the workplace
  • Risk assessment processes
  • Identifying hazards and control measures
  • Responding to accidents, near misses and ill-health
  • Emergency procedures
  • The importance of recording and reporting accidents, near misses and ill-health incidents.
Three colleagues in a textiles factory are gathered around a desk with plans and a laptop.

After completing either of these Awards, you’ll be equipped and energised to take the next steps across a range of industries. Whether you’re aiming for a job in construction, hospitality, retail, manufacturing, warehousing, education or many other sectors, they can give you a strong advantage.

Our passionate and experienced advisors are here to champion your progress – helping you explore job opportunities and map a career pathways that meets your needs. With dedicated support available at our fully equipped Sefton-based Next Steps Centre and Central Liverpool Job Shop, you’ll have everything you need to move forward with confidence and unlock new opportunities.