How to qualify for ISO 45001 Lead Auditor. Qualifying for the ISO 45001 Lead Auditor course isn’t complicated, but there are a few important steps and recommended prerequisites to ensure you succeed and get the most value out of the certification.
How to Qualify for ISO 45001 Lead Auditor Certification
Meet Recommended Prerequisites
While there are no strict academic requirements, the following background is highly recommended:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Knowledge of ISO 45001:2018 | You should understand the structure and purpose of the ISO 45001 standard. Many people take an ISO 45001: Awareness or Internal Auditor course first. |
| Basic Health & Safety Understanding | Courses like NEBOSH IGC, OSHA 30-Hour, or work experience in HSE roles are ideal. |
| English Proficiency | The course, materials, and exam are typically in English. Good reading and writing skills are important. |
Choose an Accredited Training Provider
Make sure the course is certified by a recognized accreditation body like:
- IRCA (International Register of CeHow to qualify for ISO 45001 Lead Auditorrtificated Auditors)
- Exemplar Global
- PECB
- BSI, SGS, TÜV, etc.
These providers offer in-person, live virtual, or self-paced online options.
Complete the 5-Day Training Course
The training covers:
| Module | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Clause-by-Clause of ISO 45001 | Deep understanding of the standard’s structure and requirements. |
| Auditing Techniques | Interviewing, evidence collection, audit planning. |
| Writing Audit Reports | Documenting non-conformities, recommendations. |
| Leading an Audit Team | Roles, conflict handling, leadership skills. |
| Final Exam & Assessment | Usually a 2-hour written test + group exercises. |
Duration: Typically 5 consecutive days (with an exam on the final day).
Pass the Exam
- Multiple-choice or short-answer questions based on ISO 45001 and audit scenarios.
- Some providers include practical exercises or group projects.
- After passing, you’ll get a Lead Auditor Certificate, which qualifies you to conduct third-party audits.
What You Can Do With It
After certification, you can:
- Work as an ISO 45001 Lead Auditor in companies or certification bodies.
- Conduct internal or external audits of OHSMS.
- Add huge value in compliance, risk, and HSE management roles.
- Pair it with ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 for Integrated Management Systems (IMS) roles.
Bonus: What to Do Next?
- Log audit hours to become a registered auditor with IRCA or Exemplar Global.
- Combine with certifications like NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001, or ISO 14001.
- Apply for roles with companies like NEOM, ARAMCO, SABIC, or global HSE consulting firms.
