IOSH Certificate Verification: Original or Fake?
IOSH certification is one of the most respected qualifications in the field of health and safety. But with rising demand comes misuse — and fake IOSH certificates are becoming a serious problem. Whether you’re an employer, HR professional, or an individual, verifying the authenticity of an IOSH certificate is essential to protect safety and credibility.
What is an IOSH Certificate?
IOSH stands for the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, a UK-based professional organization offering internationally recognized safety courses. The most common certificates include:
- IOSH Managing Safely – for managers and supervisors
- IOSH Working Safely – for employees and frontline workers
- IOSH Leading Safely – for senior executives
These courses equip individuals with practical safety knowledge and are widely required by companies worldwide.
Why IOSH Certificates Are Forged
Some people try to fake IOSH certificates for shortcuts, including:
- Avoiding the course fee and study time
- Gaining employment or promotions unfairly
- Faking credentials for consulting roles
Sadly, fake certificates harm the reputation of real professionals and risk lives in unsafe environments.
Types of IOSH Certificates
- IOSH Managing Safely
- 3 to 4-day course for supervisors and managers
- IOSH Working Safely
- 1-day awareness course for workers
- IOSH Leading Safely
- For top-level executives
Each certificate is issued only by IOSH-approved training providers.
Common Signs of a Fake IOSH Certificate
- Pixelated IOSH logo or blurry print
- No certificate number or serial code
- Incorrect course titles like “IOSH General Safety” (which doesn’t exist)
- No trainer name or missing provider logo
- Grammar mistakes or inconsistent formatting
Step-by-Step Guide to Verify an IOSH Certificate
Step 1 – Check the Certificate Details
Every IOSH certificate includes:
- Candidate name
- Course title
- Completion date
- Training provider details
- Certificate number
Check for accuracy, proper formatting, and spelling.
Step 2 – Verify the Training Provider
Visit the IOSH website and check whether the training center is listed as an approved provider.
If you’re unsure, contact IOSH with the provider’s name.
Step 3 – Email IOSH for Verification
If you need to confirm the certificate’s validity, send an email to:
Include the following:
- Candidate’s full name
- Certificate number (if visible)
- Course name and date
- Name of the training provider
Sample Email Template:
Subject: Request for IOSH Certificate Verification
Dear IOSH Team,
I would like to verify the authenticity of an IOSH certificate. Below are the details:
- Full Name: [Candidate’s Name]
- Course Name: [IOSH Managing Safely]
- Certificate Number: [XXXXXX]
- Training Provider: [Provider Name]
- Completion Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]
Please let me know whether this certificate is genuine.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Using the IOSH Verification System
While IOSH does not have a public online search tool, they respond promptly to email verification requests.
- Most verifications take 3–5 business days
- All requests are treated confidentially
IOSH’s Statement on Fraudulent Certifications
IOSH has made it clear that any attempts to forge certificates will result in:
- Permanent disqualification
- Legal action
- Notification to employers and authorities
They take fake documentation very seriously.
Tips for Employers to Identify Fake IOSH Certificates
- Ask for physical copy, not just email screenshot
- Verify the training provider through IOSH
- Cross-check course details with actual IOSH programs
- Request the certificate number and trainer name
How to Report a Fake IOSH Certificate
If you suspect a fake:
- Don’t accuse without evidence
- Collect details and documents
- Email: [email protected]
- IOSH will investigate discreetly
Real vs Fake IOSH Certificate – Comparison Table
| Feature | Genuine IOSH Certificate | Fake Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Number | Present and traceable | Often missing |
| Logo | High-resolution, branded | Blurry or distorted |
| Provider Name | IOSH-approved only | Unknown or fake |
| Course Name | Official IOSH course | Fake course titles |
| Contact Info | Verifiable | Often absent |
Where to Take a Valid IOSH Course
Only enroll through IOSH-approved providers listed on:
👉 https://www.iosh.com/membership/our-membership-network/
Avoid social media ads or unofficial sites that claim “fast-track” or “guaranteed pass”.
Conclusion
In a world where certifications open doors to safety roles, verifying your IOSH certificate (or someone else’s) is more than due diligence — it’s a responsibility. Don’t rely on assumptions or hearsay. Take action, verify through IOSH, and keep the workplace safe and compliant.
FAQs
1. Can IOSH verify my certificate by email?
Yes, email [email protected] with all the required details for verification.
2. How long does IOSH verification take?
It typically takes 3–5 business days to receive a response.
3. Is there an online tool to verify IOSH certificates?
Not at this time. Verification is done manually via email.
4. What is the cost of verifying an IOSH certificate?
Verification is free of charge for individuals or employers.
5. Can an IOSH certificate be revoked?
Yes, if proven fake or obtained fraudulently, IOSH may revoke it and take legal action.
