NEBOSH IGC Exam Oriented Questions and Answers
The NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) is one of the most respected and in-demand safety certifications globally. If you’re preparing for the exam, then practicing exam-oriented questions is your golden ticket to passing on your first attempt. Let’s dive into real-style questions, smart answering techniques, and mock practice that will help you conquer the NEBOSH challenge with confidence.
Overview of NEBOSH IGC Exam
Structure of IG1 and IG2
The NEBOSH IGC consists of:
- IG1: Management of Health and Safety (Open Book Exam)
- IG2: Risk Assessment (Practical Submission)
Exam Format and Method
The IG1 paper is a scenario-based written exam you complete at home (Open Book). IG2 is a practical risk assessment report based on your workplace or a simulated one.
Passing Criteria
- IG1: Minimum 45 marks out of 100
- IG2: Pass/Refer based on a marking guide
NEBOSH IG1 – Exam Oriented Questions
Element 1 – Why We Should Manage Workplace Health and Safety
Short Answer Question:
Q: Identify four moral reasons for managing health and safety.
A:
- Preventing injury and ill health
- Improving worker morale
- Avoiding human suffering
- Upholding human rights at work
Scenario-Based Question:
Scenario: An employee fell from a ladder due to lack of supervision and training.
Q: Outline four legal reasons for managing health and safety.
A:
- Prevent breaches of local legislation
- Avoid fines and prosecution
- Fulfill legal duty to protect workers
- Maintain organizational reputation
Element 2 – How Health and Safety Management Systems Work
Definition and Example
Q: Define ‘policy’ in a health and safety context. Give an example.
A: A policy is a written statement of intent by an employer to manage health and safety. Example: A company’s H&S policy to prevent workplace injuries.
Application Question
Q: Explain the role of ‘Planning’ in a H&S management system.
A: It ensures risks are identified, controls are planned, responsibilities are assigned, and resources are allocated.
Element 3 – Managing Risk: Understanding People and Processes
Human Factors Question
Q: Outline two human factors that influence behavior at work.
A:
- Competence (skills, training, knowledge)
- Motivation (reward, leadership, communication)
Motivation and Behavior Change
Q: Explain how supervision can reduce unsafe acts.
A: Supervisors model safe behavior, correct unsafe acts in real time, and provide feedback, reinforcing positive actions.
Element 4 – Monitoring, Audit, and Review
Active vs Reactive Monitoring
Q: Explain the difference between active and reactive monitoring.
A:
- Active: Inspections, safety tours, audits
- Reactive: Accident reports, near-miss reports
Audit and Inspection
Q: Identify three purposes of an audit.
A:
- Verify compliance with standards
- Identify gaps and areas for improvement
- Strengthen safety culture
NEBOSH IG2 – Risk Assessment Questions
Understanding Risk Assessment Criteria
Risk Matrix and Prioritization
Q: What factors affect the level of risk?
A:
- Likelihood of harm occurring
- Severity of the potential outcome
Identifying Hazards Effectively
Q: Identify three workplace hazards and one control for each.
A:
- Working at height – Use guardrails
- Electrical tools – PAT testing
- Manual handling – Use trolleys
Practical Application Questions
Sample Hazard and Control Entry (IG2 Format)
| Hazard | Who Might Be Harmed | Controls in Place | Further Controls Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open trenches | Workers, pedestrians | Barriers, signage | Night lighting, watchmen |
Common Errors to Avoid
- Listing generic controls
- Forgetting to mention who is harmed
- Not linking hazards to specific activities
Key Tips to Answer NEBOSH Questions Effectively
- Understand command words (e.g., Identify = list, Explain = give reasons)
- Use headings and bullet points to structure answers clearly
- Refer to the scenario when answering IG1 questions
- Include real-world examples to show applied understanding
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Generic answers not related to the scenario
- Too much theory without real-life context
- Not checking the word count for IG2 entries
- Overuse of copy-paste from guidance documents
Bonus Sample Questions and Answers
IG1 – Scenario-Based Question Example
Scenario: A warehouse has several near-miss incidents involving forklifts and poor lighting.
Q: Recommend suitable control measures to improve safety.
A:
- Install proper lighting in all forklift operating areas
- Separate pedestrian walkways using barriers
- Train operators on safe speed and signaling
- Schedule regular maintenance of forklifts
IG2 – Sample Hazard Entry
| Hazard | Who Might Be Harmed | Existing Controls | Further Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical cords across walkway | Staff, visitors | Warning signs placed | Use cable covers or reroute cords |
Tips from NEBOSH Toppers
- Study one element per day, then revise weekly
- Practice past mock exams under timed conditions
- Create your own flashcards for definitions
- Use NEBOSH’s guidance documents wisely during the open book exam
- Don’t just memorize – understand the logic
Conclusion
Passing the NEBOSH IGC exam is absolutely possible with the right mindset and preparation. By practicing exam-oriented questions, aligning your answers with NEBOSH expectations, and avoiding common mistakes, you can clear both IG1 and IG2 with confidence. Let your learning be guided not just by theory, but by the way you apply safety thinking in real-life situations. Keep pushing, keep practicing—and success will follow!
How To Submit Your NEBOSH Exam PROPERLY (NEBOSH IGC Exam)
Legal Frameworks and International Standards in Health and Safety
Moral, Legal and Financial Reasons for Managing Health and Safety
How to Pass the NEBOSH IGC in Your First Attempt: Study Plan + Resources
NEBOSH IGC Career Guide: Jobs, Salaries & Growth Opportunities (2025)
FAQs
1. What is the best way to prepare for NEBOSH?
Study each element thoroughly, practice exam-style questions, and understand command words.
2. Are NEBOSH exams open book?
Yes, IG1 is now an open book exam. IG2 is a practical risk assessment report.
3. Can I use AI tools in the exam?
NEBOSH warns against unauthorized assistance. You must submit original work.
4. How are NEBOSH papers marked?
IG1 is marked out of 100 with 45 as a pass. IG2 is marked pass/fail based on strict criteria.
5. How long should my IG2 report be?
Aim for 3–5 hazards with detailed entries. Total word count should be around 1000–1200 words.
