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To take ISO certification exams, you must qualify for a single scenario-based test and one multiple-choice knowledge exam, which you must pass. The assessment and the exam are taken online and remotely supervised. 

Remote invigilation is done online through a specialist exam platform and security software. You can take your exams with a reliable internet connection, but they are presented through secure procedures like going into a test centre.

You will be watched online through cameras and shared screens. After booking your exams, you will be given precise directions on preparing and trying out your equipment before the exam. To take the exam, you will require a laptop with a stable internet connection, a webcam, a microphone, speakers, and a smartphone.

IOSH certificates do not have an official expiry date. Once a course taker completes a course, they will be awarded a certificate of completion, which will last a lifetime and show that the individual has completed training in the particular health and safety topic.

However, it should be noted that health and safety industry practices and safety legislation can change over time. Certificate holders are advised to periodically refresh their knowledge, especially if they are continuously employed in jobs involving duties related to health and safety.

Some employers may also require their workers to redo the training after some years to comply with the latest regulations and best practices.

The selection of the suitable IOSH course is based on an individual's job, tasks, workplace, and future ambitions. For instance:

IOSH Working Safely course can be taken up by anyone who wants to learn about basic health and safety principles.

The IOSH Managing Safely course is aimed at team leaders, supervisors, or managers who must ensure that the work is done in a safe and risk-free environment. 

An individual with a low-risk job, such as working in an office, might only require simple awareness training. In contrast, a production, manufacturing or construction manager might want to take a more detailed course. Before enrolling to a course, you must check the course syllabus, learning outcomes, and level of complexity.

Yes, IOSH certifications are accepted across many nations and industries globally. IOSH is a UK-based chartered body of health and safety professionals, but its courses are well received by employers internationally. IOSH courses adhere to global standards and aim to develop core knowledge in workplace safety, hazard perception, and risk reduction. Their common acceptance by these courses makes them beneficial for professionals employed in multinational organisations or even those looking for employment overseas. Furthermore, IOSH collaborates with international bodies and professional institutions to encourage good practice in occupational safety and health.

Both IOSH and NEBOSH are reputed for offering health and safety qualifications, but they target different audiences:

• IOSH courses are generally shorter and more fundamental. They suit members of teams, line managers, or supervisors who form part of day-to-day operations and need to understand safety procedures, although they do not have direct health and safety responsibilities. Firms can leverage such courses to create general awareness among workers.

• NEBOSH courses are more detailed and technical. They target those directly involved in professional health and safety jobs, such as safety officers, advisors, or managers. NEBOSH certifications require you to dedicate more study time. These courses cover health and safety law, risk assessment, and control measures in more depth.