NEBOSH IGC Exam: Key Questions and Sample Answers to Ace Your Certification

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Sample Question Categories
3. Define the purpose of a Health and Safety Management System (HSMS).
4. What are the key components of a Health and Safety Policy, and why are they important?
5. Explain the concept of ‘reasonably practicable’ in health and safety law.
6. What is the purpose of a risk assessment in health and safety?
7. List and describe the five steps of a risk assessment.
8. What are the key differences between proactive and reactive health and safety monitoring?
9. What is the hierarchy of risk control, and why is it important?
10. What role does safety culture play in the success of health and safety management systems?
11. Describe the term ‘ALARP’ and its relevance to risk management.
12. Explain the process and importance of incident investigation in the workplace.
13. What is the purpose of a Permit to Work (PTW) system, and in which situations is it used?
14. What are the key responsibilities of employers under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA)?
15. Explain the concept of ‘hazardous substance’ and give examples of control measures that can be applied.
16. What is the role of a health and safety audit, and how does it differ from an inspection?
17. Describe the key components of an emergency plan in the workplace.
18. What is the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in risk control, and what are its limitations?
19. What is a ‘near miss’ and why is it important to report them?
20. Explain the purpose of health surveillance and give examples of when it might be necessary.
21. What are the main types of fire extinguishers, and what types of fires are they suitable for?
22. Describe the key steps involved in controlling exposure to noise in the workplace.
23. What are the main causes of slips, trips, and falls in the workplace, and how can they be prevented?
24. What are the legal duties of employees under health and safety legislation?
25. What is the purpose of occupational health and safety regulations, and how do they impact employers?
26. Explain the concept of ‘ergonomics’ and its significance in workplace safety.
27. Describe the factors that should be considered when selecting personal protective equipment (PPE).
28. What is the purpose of an accident investigation, and what steps should be taken to conduct one?
29. Explain the difference between qualitative and quantitative risk assessment methods.
30. What is the purpose of safety signs in the workplace, and what types of safety signs are commonly used?
31. What is the role of leadership in promoting a positive health and safety culture?
32. What are the key components of a successful manual handling program?

Introduction: Earning the NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) is a major step for professionals in occupational health and safety. To help you succeed, we’ve compiled key questions and sample answers to give you a clearer idea of what to expect and how to frame your responses in the exam.

Sample Question Categories:

You can organize the questions into categories, such as:

1. Health and Safety Management Systems
2. Risk Assessment and Control
3. Incident Investigation
4. Legal Framework

1. Health and Safety Management Systems

Sample Question:

Explain the importance of implementing a Health and Safety Management System in an organization.

Sample Answer:

A Health and Safety Management System (HSMS) helps an organization systematically manage risks and ensure a safe working environment. It provides clear procedures for risk assessment, incident reporting, and compliance with regulations. Businesses can not only meet legal obligations but also enhance worker morale and productivity, ultimately reducing the likelihood of accidents by integrating HSMS into daily operations.

2. Risk Assessment and Control

Sample Question:

Describe the key steps involved in a risk assessment process.

Sample Answer:

Risk assessment is a critical component of workplace safety. The steps typically include:

• Identifying hazards: Examine the work environment and identify potential hazards.
• Determining who might be harmed and how: Assess which employees or contractors might be exposed to the hazards.
• Evaluating risks: Analyze the severity of the hazard and the likelihood of harm occurring.
• Implementing controls: Put measures in place to reduce or eliminate the risk.
• Reviewing and updating: Regularly review the risk assessment to ensure its effectiveness and update it as needed.

3. Incident Investigation

Sample Question:

What are the main objectives of an incident investigation?

Sample Answer:

The primary objective of an incident investigation is to prevent future incidents by identifying the root causes of the current one. The investigation aims to:

• Determine what happened: Collect facts related to the incident.
• Understand why it happened: Identify underlying factors that contributed to the incident.
• Recommend corrective actions: Suggest changes to prevent a recurrence. A thorough investigation not only helps improve safety but also reinforces the organization’s commitment to worker protection.

4. Legal Framework

Sample Question:

Discuss the significance of health and safety legislation for an organization.

Sample Answer:

Health and safety legislation sets the minimum standards that all organizations must follow to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. Compliance with the law helps prevent accidents, reduces liability, and protects an organization from legal consequences. Moreover, adhering to legislation promotes a culture of safety, which can positively impact an organization’s reputation and employee morale.

KEY QUESTIONS FOR NEBOSH IGC

1. Define the purpose of a Health and Safety Management System (HSMS).

Answer:
The purpose of a Health and Safety Management System (HSMS) is to provide a structured approach to managing health and safety risks within an organization. It ensures compliance with legislation, promotes a proactive safety culture, and minimizes the potential for incidents and accidents by establishing clear processes for identifying, assessing, and controlling workplace hazards.

2. What are the key components of a Health and Safety Policy, and why are they important?

Answer:
A Health and Safety Policy typically includes:

• Statement of Intent: A declaration of the organization’s commitment to health and safety.
• Roles and Responsibilities: Details of who is responsible for specific aspects of health and safety.
• Arrangements: The procedures and actions that ensure the policy is implemented effectively.

These components are important as they provide a framework for ensuring health and safety is managed in a systematic and transparent way, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to protecting its employees.

3. Explain the concept of ‘reasonably practicable’ in health and safety law.

Answer:
‘Reasonably practicable’ is a legal concept that requires employers to balance the level of risk against the time, effort, and cost required to reduce that risk. It means that employers must take appropriate measures to mitigate risks, but they are not required to take action if the cost of doing so is grossly disproportionate to the level of risk reduction.

4. What is the purpose of a risk assessment in health and safety?

Answer:
The purpose of a risk assessment is to systematically identify hazards, evaluate the associated risks, and implement control measures to minimize or eliminate the risks. This process helps to ensure the safety of employees and compliance with legal obligations, while also reducing the likelihood of accidents or incidents.

5. List and describe the five steps of a risk assessment.

Answer:

1. Identify Hazards: Look for anything that may cause harm.
2. Determine Who Might Be Harmed and How: Identify the people who could be affected and how they might be harmed.
3. Evaluate the Risks: Assess the severity and likelihood of the risks, and decide on control measures.
4. Implement Control Measures: Put measures in place to reduce the risks to an acceptable level.
5. Review the Assessment: Regularly review the risk assessment to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

6. What are the key differences between proactive and reactive health and safety monitoring?

Answer:
Proactive monitoring involves identifying and controlling risks before incidents occur, through activities such as safety inspections, audits, and risk assessments. Reactive monitoring, on the other hand, focuses on learning from incidents that have already happened, such as investigating accidents or near-misses to prevent recurrence.

7. What is the hierarchy of risk control, and why is it important?

Answer:
The hierarchy of risk control is a framework for managing risks, ordered from most to least effective:

1. Elimination: Completely remove the hazard.
2. Substitution: Replace the hazard with something less dangerous.
3. Engineering Controls: Isolate people from the hazard.
4. Administrative Controls: Change work practices or procedures.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide PPE to reduce exposure to the hazard.

It is important because it prioritizes the most effective methods of risk reduction, aiming to eliminate or reduce risks at the source rather than relying on less effective measures such as PPE.

8. What role does safety culture play in the success of health and safety management systems?

Answer:
Safety culture refers to the attitudes, values, and behaviors of an organization regarding health and safety. A positive safety culture is critical to the success of health and safety management systems, as it encourages employees to actively engage in safety practices, report hazards, and comply with safety policies. It fosters an environment where safety is seen as a shared responsibility.

9. Describe the term ‘ALARP’ and its relevance to risk management.

Answer:
ALARP stands for “As Low As Reasonably Practicable” and is a principle used in risk management to reduce risks to the lowest possible level, considering the balance between the risk and the effort required to mitigate it. The aim is to ensure that any risk remaining is acceptable in the context of current legal, technological, and social standards.

10. Explain the process and importance of incident investigation in the workplace.

Answer:
Incident investigation involves analyzing the causes of workplace incidents, such as accidents or near-misses, to prevent them from recurring. The process typically includes gathering evidence, identifying immediate and root causes, and implementing corrective actions. Incident investigations are crucial as they help organizations learn from past events, improve safety procedures, and reduce the likelihood of future incidents.

11. What is the purpose of a Permit to Work (PTW) system, and in which situations is it used?

Answer:
A Permit to Work (PTW) system is a formal, written system used to control hazardous activities that require strict safety measures. It ensures that risks are properly assessed, authorized personnel are involved, and the necessary precautions are in place before work begins. PTWs are typically used for high-risk activities such as confined space entry, hot work, electrical work, and working at heights.

12. What are the key responsibilities of employers under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA)?

Answer:
Under the HSWA, employers have the following key responsibilities:

• Provide a safe workplace: Ensure that the work environment is free from hazards.
• Provide training and supervision: Ensure that employees are trained and supervised in safe working practices.
• Conduct risk assessments: Identify and control workplace risks.
• Consult with employees: Engage employees in discussions about health and safety.
• Provide safety equipment: Supply and maintain necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) at no cost to employees.

13. Explain the concept of ‘hazardous substance’ and give examples of control measures that can be applied.

Answer:
A hazardous substance is any material that can cause harm to health if not properly controlled, such as chemicals, dust, fumes, or gases. Control measures to reduce exposure to hazardous substances include:

• Substitution: Replace hazardous substances with less harmful alternatives.
• Engineering controls: Use ventilation systems or enclosed processes to reduce exposure.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide appropriate PPE like gloves, masks, or goggles.
• Training and information: Ensure workers understand the risks and how to handle substances safely.

14. What is the role of a health and safety audit, and how does it differ from an inspection?

Answer:
A health and safety audit is a systematic, independent review of an organization’s health and safety management system to ensure it is working effectively and in compliance with legal requirements. It looks at policies, procedures, and practices across the organization. In contrast, an inspection is more focused on specific aspects of the workplace, such as the condition of machinery or the use of PPE, to identify hazards or unsafe conditions.

15. Describe the key components of an emergency plan in the workplace.

Answer:
An emergency plan typically includes:

• Identification of potential emergencies: Assessing risks such as fires, chemical spills, or natural disasters.
• Roles and responsibilities: Designating staff to manage specific tasks during an emergency.
• Evacuation procedures: Developing safe evacuation routes and assembly points.
• Communication plan: Establishing clear communication channels for alerting staff and contacting emergency services.
• Training and drills: Ensuring employees are trained and regularly practice emergency procedures.

16. What is the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in risk control, and what are its limitations?

Answer:
PPE is used as a last line of defense in controlling risks when other measures (such as elimination or engineering controls) cannot completely remove the hazard. It helps protect workers from exposure to hazards such as chemicals, noise, or flying debris. However, PPE has limitations, including:

• Reliance on correct usage: It must be worn correctly and consistently to be effective.
• Does not eliminate hazards: It only reduces exposure, but the hazard still exists.
• Maintenance required: PPE must be regularly inspected, cleaned, and replaced to ensure effectiveness.

17. What is a ‘near miss’ and why is it important to report them?

Answer:
A near miss is an event that could have resulted in injury or damage but did not, either by chance or through timely intervention. Reporting near misses is crucial because it helps identify potential hazards before they cause harm. By investigating and addressing near misses, organizations can prevent future incidents and improve overall safety performance.

18. Explain the purpose of health surveillance and give examples of when it might be necessary.

Answer:
Health surveillance involves the systematic monitoring of employees’ health to identify potential work-related health issues at an early stage. It is particularly important when employees are exposed to hazards such as noise, vibration, or hazardous substances. For example, health surveillance is necessary for workers exposed to hazardous chemicals like asbestos or for those working in environments with high noise levels that could lead to hearing loss.

19. What are the main types of fire extinguishers, and what types of fires are they suitable for?

Answer:
The main types of fire extinguishers include:

• Water extinguishers: Suitable for Class A fires (solid combustibles like wood and paper).
• Foam extinguishers: Used for Class A and Class B fires (flammable liquids like petrol).
• CO₂ extinguishers: Effective on Class B fires and electrical fires.
• Dry powder extinguishers: Suitable for Class A, B, and C fires (combustible gases).
• Wet chemical extinguishers: Designed for Class F fires (cooking oils and fats).

Using the correct type of extinguisher is crucial to effectively control the fire without causing further damage.

20. Describe the key steps involved in controlling exposure to noise in the workplace.

Answer:
Controlling exposure to noise involves:

1. Eliminating or reducing noise at the source: For example, replacing noisy machinery with quieter alternatives.
2. Engineering controls: Using soundproofing or isolation techniques to reduce noise levels.
3. Administrative controls: Implementing quiet work practices, such as rotating workers to limit their exposure.
4. Hearing protection: Providing earplugs or earmuffs to workers exposed to high noise levels.
5. Health surveillance: Monitoring the hearing of workers exposed to excessive noise to detect any damage early.

21. What are the main causes of slips, trips, and falls in the workplace, and how can they be prevented?

Answer:
The main causes of slips, trips, and falls include:

• Wet or uneven surfaces: Spills, leaks, or poor maintenance can create slippery surfaces.
• Obstructions: Items left in walkways, such as tools, cables, or debris, can cause trips.
• Poor lighting: Inadequate lighting can make it difficult to see potential hazards.

Prevention measures include:

• Good housekeeping: Ensuring that floors are clean, dry, and free from obstructions.
• Proper footwear: Providing workers with appropriate slip-resistant footwear.
• Adequate lighting: Ensuring work areas are well-lit, especially in high-traffic areas.

22. What are the legal duties of employees under health and safety legislation?

Answer:
Employees have several legal duties under health and safety legislation, including:

• Taking reasonable care: Employees must take care of their own health and safety, as well as that of others who may be affected by their actions.
• Following instructions and training: They must follow health and safety procedures, use equipment correctly, and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• Reporting hazards: Employees have a duty to report any hazards or unsafe conditions to their employer.

23. What is the purpose of occupational health and safety regulations, and how do they impact employers?

Answer:
The purpose of occupational health and safety regulations is to provide a legal framework that protects workers by ensuring that employers identify, assess, and control risks. These regulations require employers to implement safety measures, conduct risk assessments, provide training, and maintain safe working conditions. Non-compliance can result in legal penalties, fines, and reputational damage.

24. Explain the concept of ‘ergonomics’ and its significance in workplace safety.

Answer:
Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with their work environment, focusing on designing tasks, tools, and workspaces to fit the worker, rather than forcing the worker to adapt to unsuitable conditions. The goal is to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and improve comfort, productivity, and safety by minimizing strain, awkward postures, and repetitive motions.

25. Describe the factors that should be considered when selecting personal protective equipment (PPE).

Answer:
When selecting PPE, the following factors should be considered:

• Suitability for the task: PPE must protect against the specific hazards associated with the task.
• Fit and comfort: PPE should fit properly and be comfortable to ensure it is worn correctly and consistently.
• Durability and maintenance: The PPE must be durable enough for the task and easy to clean and maintain.
• Compatibility with other PPE: If multiple types of PPE are required, they must be compatible and not interfere with each other’s effectiveness.

26. What is the purpose of an accident investigation, and what steps should be taken to conduct one?

Answer:
The purpose of an accident investigation is to determine the causes of an accident or near-miss, identify what went wrong, and implement measures to prevent recurrence. The key steps in an accident investigation include:

1. Gathering evidence: Collecting information such as witness statements, photographs, and physical evidence.
2. Identifying causes: Determining both the immediate and underlying causes of the accident.
3. Developing corrective actions: Recommending improvements to prevent similar incidents.
4. Reporting: Documenting the investigation findings in a clear and detailed report.

27. Explain the difference between qualitative and quantitative risk assessment methods.

Answer:

• Qualitative risk assessment involves using subjective judgments to evaluate the severity and likelihood of risks. It relies on experience and knowledge to categorize risks as high, medium, or low.
• Quantitative risk assessment, on the other hand, uses numerical data and statistical methods to calculate the exact probability of a risk occurring and the potential severity of its impact. This method provides a more objective measure of risk.

28. What is the purpose of safety signs in the workplace, and what types of safety signs are commonly used?

Answer:
The purpose of safety signs is to communicate important information about hazards, mandatory actions, prohibitions, and emergency procedures. They help prevent accidents by alerting workers to potential dangers and instructing them on how to stay safe. Common types of safety signs include:

• Warning signs: Alert workers to potential hazards (e.g., ‘Caution: Wet Floor’).
• Mandatory signs: Indicate actions that must be taken (e.g., ‘Wear Eye Protection’).
• Prohibition signs: Specify actions that are not allowed (e.g., ‘No Smoking’).
• Emergency signs: Indicate emergency routes and equipment (e.g., ‘Fire Exit’).

29. What is the role of leadership in promoting a positive health and safety culture?

Answer:
Leadership plays a crucial role in promoting a positive health and safety culture by:

• Leading by example: Managers and supervisors must demonstrate a commitment to health and safety through their actions.
• Communicating the importance of safety: Regularly discussing health and safety in meetings and communications reinforces its significance.
• Providing resources and support: Ensuring that employees have the necessary training, equipment, and time to work safely.
• Encouraging reporting and feedback: Leaders should create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting hazards and suggesting improvements without fear of reprisal.

30. What are the key components of a successful manual handling program?

Answer:
A successful manual handling program includes the following components:

• Risk assessment: Identifying tasks that involve manual handling and assessing the risks associated with them.
• Training: Providing workers with training on proper manual handling techniques, such as lifting, carrying, and positioning loads.
• Ergonomic solutions: Implementing engineering controls, such as mechanical lifting aids, to reduce the physical strain on workers.
• Monitoring and reviewing: Regularly reviewing manual handling activities to ensure the program remains effective and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Conclusion

Preparing for the NEBOSH IGC exam demands a strong grasp of essential health and safety principles and the ability to apply this knowledge in practical situations. The questions and answers provided in this guide are tailored to help you focus on critical topics and gain the confidence to excel in the exam.

A deep understanding of risk management, safety culture, and legal responsibilities will empower you to successfully pass the exam and contribute to safer work environments. Stay committed to learning and applying these concepts throughout your professional journey, as they are crucial to protecting the health and safety of workers and communities alike.

Thorough preparation and clarity of understanding are key to achieving your certification and advancing your career in occupational health and safety.