NEBOSH International General Certificate in South Africa
A safety officer course that gives you a full occupational health and safety certificate: the NEBOSH IGC is the entry-level qualification South African employers most often ask for in safety officer and SHE officer roles. Ideal for managers, supervisors and people moving into safety.
- Recognised for safety officer and SHE officer positions
- Internationally recognised qualification
- Online or in-class in Johannesburg
- No prior knowledge required
- Tutor-led exam preparation included
- Flexible study options to fit work
- Admissions support from start to finish
Why study with us
A NEBOSH Gold Learning Partner trusted by 60,000+ safety professionals across 180+ countries.
Recognised worldwide
Trusted by employers in 180+ countries as the standard entry qualification for health and safety.
Built for working pros
Designed for managers, supervisors and team leads taking on safety responsibility.
Practical risk skills
Learn risk assessment, hazard control and workplace safety management you can use immediately.
Is this the right safety officer course for you?
If your goal is to work as a safety officer, SHE officer or health and safety representative, the NEBOSH International General Certificate is the qualification most South African job adverts list as the starting point. It is an occupational health and safety certificate awarded internationally, so it travels with you between employers, sectors and countries.
There are no formal entry requirements — you do not need a previous safety qualification — but the exams and the workplace risk assessment are written in English, so a good standard of written English is essential.
- Suits people moving into a dedicated safety officer role for the first time
- Also suits supervisors and managers who have picked up safety duties alongside their job
- Covers risk assessment, hazard identification and control, incident investigation and safety management systems
- Two units: an open-book examination and closing interview (GIC1) and a practical workplace risk assessment (GIC2)
- Assessed and awarded by NEBOSH; we are a NEBOSH Gold Learning Partner (#1795)
- A common route onwards is the NEBOSH International Diploma for senior safety practitioner roles
Choose your study mode
Tailored learning paths to fit your schedule and career goals.
E-Learning
Self-paced online study with tutor support. Fit learning around work and family.
Virtual Training (Facilitator led via MS Teams)
Live virtual classes via MS Teams with a NEBOSH-qualified tutor.
Classroom
In-person training in Johannesburg with hands-on practical sessions.
Contact us to confirm availability · Corporate group discounts available
Request course fees & speak to admissions
Tell us about your goals and one of our admissions advisors will help you choose the right NEBOSH route, share fees and confirm next intake dates.
- Personalised course recommendation
- Latest fees, payment plans & corporate discounts
- Upcoming intake dates for South Africa
- Guidance on entry requirements & study options
"The tutor support during the IGC was outstanding. I passed first time and secured an HSE role within a month."
Thabo M. — HSE Supervisor, Johannesburg
Frequently asked questions
Is the NEBOSH IGC a safety officer course?
Yes. The IGC is the qualification most commonly requested for safety officer and SHE officer roles. It covers the core duties of the job — risk assessment, hazard control, incident investigation and safety management systems — and is awarded internationally by NEBOSH.
What qualification do I need to become a safety officer in South Africa?
Employers typically ask for a recognised occupational health and safety certificate. The NEBOSH International General Certificate is the most widely requested because it is internationally awarded, while SAMTRAC is a local alternative. NEBOSH sets no formal entry requirements for the IGC.
Who is the NEBOSH IGC for?
Anyone moving into a health and safety role — managers, supervisors, team leads and aspiring safety professionals. No prior qualifications are required.
How long does the IGC take?
Typically 10–12 weeks part-time, depending on the study mode you choose. Intensive options are also available.
How much does the IGC cost?
November offer (until 30 Nov): e-learning R6,000 ex VAT (R6,900 incl. VAT), normally R13,500. From R13,500 for e-learning, R17,990 for Virtual Training (Facilitator led via MS Teams) and R20,990 for in-class in Johannesburg. Speak to admissions for payment plans and corporate rates.
Will I be ready for the exam?
Yes. Exam preparation, practice questions and tutor support are included. Our learners have access to exam preparation and tutor support.