NEBOSH launches three new counter terrorism qualifications

NEBOSH, the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health, has launched three new qualifications designed to help organisations counter terrorist threats and in the UK, prepare for new legislation.

The UK’s new Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as “Martyn’s Law”, places legal duties on certain public premises to consider terrorist threats, take steps to protect against potential attacks and keep people safe should an incident occur.

NEBOSH’s new qualifications are designed to equip responsible individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to help protect people from terrorist threats, as well as helping them to comply with their legal responsibilities under the Act.

The addition of an international qualification will help ensure a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism preparedness worldwide. The qualifications are:

NEBOSH National Certificate in Protecting Standard Duty Premises from Terrorism

A one-day course for those managing publicly accessible premises where between 200 and 799 people may be present at the same time.

NEBOSH National Certificate in Protecting Enhanced Duty Premises and Events from Terrorism

A three-day course for those managing publicly accessible premises and events where between 800 or more people may be present at the same time.

NEBOSH International Certificate in Protecting Premises and Events from Terrorism

A three-day course for those who are involved in ensuring that that their organisation has considered and addressed the threat of terrorism in premises and events open to the public.

Participants will learn to understand the nature of terrorism, assess potential terrorism threats, identify protective procedures and measures and the appropriate emergency response.

The courses also cover risk assessments, investigations and security culture.

Director of Product Development, NEBOSH, Matt Powell-Howard’s statement

Matt Powell-Howard, NEBOSH Director of Product Development, added: “At the heart of these qualifications is a commitment to protecting lives.

“Families, friends and colleagues’ safety and wellbeing depend on effective preparation and response.

“For health and safety professionals, many of the principles we know about risk assessment and control will help us contribute to organisational counter-terrorism preparedness and these qualifications are a great way to learn how to apply those skills in a security context.”

Partner Regulatory- Safety, Health & Environment, DAC Beachcroft, Rhian Greaves’ statement

Rhian Greaves, Partner Regulatory – Safety, Health & Environment at DAC Beachcroft, said: “Martyn’s Law positions the UK as a leader in counterterrorism by requiring a consistent approach to terrorism preparedness.

“It clarifies who is responsible at qualifying premises and events and what they must do. It calls for clear risk understanding, consistent practices and strong collaboration to foster a safety-focused culture.”

NEBOSH launches three new counter terrorism qualifications: Summary

NEBOSH, the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health, has launched three new qualifications designed to help organisations counter terrorist threats and in the UK, prepare for new legislation.

UK qualifications regulator approves new fire sprinkler system course

BAFSA announces new qualification for fire safety professionals

The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) has gained approval from OFQUAL for the ABBE Level 3 Award in Inspection and Commissioning of Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems.

This qualification is tailored for professionals in the fire safety sector, focusing on the inspection and commissioning of commercial fire sprinkler systems in alignment with LPC Rules and BS EN 12845 standards.

Participants in the course will acquire critical skills, including assessing sprinkler designs against various storage configurations and overseeing the installation and maintenance processes.

This marks a significant development in enhancing the competency and capabilities within the fire safety industry.

Course details and industry implications

OFQUAL’s endorsement signifies a crucial step forward in standardized training for fire safety professionals.

The newly named ABBE Level 3 Award will equip individuals with essential knowledge for managing and implementing fire sprinkler systems, a fundamental component of modern commercial building safety protocols.

Ali Perry, Chief Executive of BAFSA, expressed satisfaction with the course’s approval, stating: “I would like to congratulate BAFSA’s Ruth Oliver and Alan Crichton and our partners at ABBE for achieving this milestone in BAFSA’s ongoing commitment to further enhance the competence of those working within our life saving industry.

We will continue to work to deliver approved qualifications for the suite of new courses BAFSA is currently developing.”

Further information and future prospects

The qualification also serves as part of the criteria for obtaining the Industry Skillcard Fire Sprinkler Engineer (Blue Skilled Worker card), which is pivotal for professionals in the sector.

For those interested in enrolling in this course, further details are available on the BAFSA Training Centre website.

As part of its commitment to advancing fire safety education, BAFSA continues to develop and introduce new courses aimed at addressing the evolving needs of the fire safety industry.

These efforts underscore the association’s dedication to fostering a safer working environment through accredited training and qualifications.

IFSJ Comment

The approval of the ABBE Level 3 Award in Inspection and Commissioning of Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems by OFQUAL is a positive step towards standardising qualifications within the fire safety sector.

By setting a benchmark for educational excellence in this field, BAFSA is contributing to the overall enhancement of industry standards and safety.