IOSH Approved Behavioural Science for Leadership in Safety
Improving safety performance is not just about procedures and policies — it is about behaviour. The IOSH Approved Behavioural Science for Leadership in Safety course focuses on the science behind why people act the way they do at work, and how leaders can positively influence those behaviours.
Designed for leaders, managers and supervisors across all industries, this programme builds on existing health and safety knowledge and takes it a step further — into practical behavioural change.
By understanding the psychological drivers behind performance, you will be better equipped to shape culture, influence decision-making and improve safety outcomes across your organisation.
Duration
6-8 hours
Entry Requirements
We're committed to ensuring education is available to all. Without any prerequisites, this program is crafted for people at every stage. We suggest learners have completed the NEBOSH General Certificate or equivalent.
Learning options:
IOSH Approved Behavioural Science for Leadership in Safety Explained
Delivered in partnership with Behavioural Safety Services Training (BSST), this course has been developed by performance psychologist Darren Sutton, combining behavioural science expertise with extensive senior leadership experience in health and safety.
Each module is introduced through short, engaging video sessions, creating a more personal and interactive learning experience.
The programme typically takes 6–8 hours to complete and is delivered entirely online, allowing learners to study at their own pace. It can be completed in one sitting or broken into shorter sessions over several days.
Upon successful completion, learners receive an official digital certificate from IOSH.
If you are looking to influence organisational culture, strengthen leadership capability and create lasting behavioural change, this course provides a structured and practical starting point.
Course Overview
Units
Module 1
Safety Leadership
Module 2
Avoiding Failure or Creating Excellence
Module 3
Key Drivers of Behaviour
Module 4
Behavioural Science and Safety Performance
Module 5
ABC Analysis
Module 6
Goal Setting
Assessments
Assessment consists of two elements:
A 40-minute multiple-choice test (12 questions)
Submission of a reflective journal completed during the course
Learners receive an automated provisional result once the multiple-choice test and reflective journal have been submitted. Results are verified within 24 hours.
Course Length
Approximately 6–8 hours of study
12 months access to course materials
The flexible structure allows learners to complete the programme around professional commitments.
frequently asked Questions
FAQs
How Do I Access the Assessment?
The assessment is integrated within the online platform. Once all six modules have been completed, learners are automatically granted access to the final assessment.
Who Is the Course Designed For?
This programme is suitable for leaders, managers and supervisors in any sector who wish to strengthen their ability to influence behaviour and improve safety culture.
It is particularly valuable for those who have already completed formal health and safety training and are ready to focus on performance and behavioural improvement.
Who Is Darren Sutton?
Darren Sutton is a performance psychologist and author of the IOSH Certified Behavioural Science for Leadership in Safety programme. With an MSc in Performance Psychology and significant experience in senior safety leadership roles, he specialises in helping individuals and organisations enhance performance through behavioural insight.
Each module of the course is introduced by Darren through video, adding expert context to the learning experience.
Whats The Best Way For My Staff To Learn?
Dependent on staff availability, location, budget and your company needs, choose from the options:
- Online - Our interactive and multimedia rich courses for staff to fit in around their commitments
- Classroom - Expert tutor-led delivery, hosted in a professional training environment across 6-sites within the UK. Alternatively Classroom training can be delivered On-Site at your premises for multiple learners.
- Virtual - The Virtual Learning Academy is the most modern approach to delivering live-online training without the need to travel
Workplace Training
IOSH Approved Behavioural Science for Leadership in Safety for Your Workforce
Develop your people for a better organisation
By applying the knowledge and skills gained from the IOSH Approved Behavioural Science for Leadership in Safety qualification you will be able to contribute to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.
Our training has been tried and tested by 100,000 health and safety professionals. We offer a range of learning options including virtual classroom, online and on-site classroom courses delivered at a premises and on a day of your choice.
Benefits Of Staff Training At Your Organisation
Cost and time saving benefits for larger number of staff.
Your own dedicated account manager to organise all aspects of your training.
Relevant training for your staff can be tailored to company requests.
Choice and convenience of training delivery options to suit your staff
Support
We're Here to Assist
Need assistance? Visit our support centre to access frequently asked questions, details on scheduling your exams, funding opportunities and much more.
