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A new name - the same respected NEBOSH qualification

Published Feb 23, 2026

From February 2026, NEBOSH is changing the way it names its most popular qualifications.

If you’ve heard of the NEBOSH General Certificate (NGC) or International General Certificate (IGC), you might be wondering what’s happening to them, and whether the qualification you know and trust is being replaced.

The qualifications will continue to be known by their familiar titles, but NEBOSH is retiring the NGC and IGC syllabus codes and introducing clearer qualification names in their place.

This change is designed to make NEBOSH qualifications easier to understand, compare and find, particularly for learners and employers who are new to health and safety training - while maintaining the same gold-standard quality employers value worldwide.

So if you’re asking:

  • Is the NEBOSH General Certificate changing?

  • What replaces NGC and IGC?

  • Will my qualification still be recognised?

You’re in the right place - let’s break it down ?

Unit 1 - The Knowledge-based Exam

Previously:

  • NG1 (National)

  • IG1 (International)

From 2026:

  • GNC1 (National)

  • GIC1 (International)

Despite the new codes, the exam format itself remains unchanged. Learners will still complete the 24-hour, open-book, scenario-based assessment that focuses on applying knowledge to real workplace situations.

Unit 2 - The practical risk assessment

Previously:

  • NG2 / IG2

From 2026:

  • GNC2 / GIC2

This is where the most meaningful changes have been introduced, and they’re very much focused on fairness and clarity.

A fairer, more transparent practical assessment

Historically, the Unit 2 practical assessment was marked on a strict “Met / Not Met” basis. This meant that missing a single element - even a minor one - could result in a referral.

From 2026, NEBOSH is introducing a points-based marking system for the practical assessment:

  • Points-based assessment: Marks are awarded across assessment criteria rather than a single pass / fail judgement

  • Pass mark: 60% overall

  • Clear feedback: Learners will receive a breakdown of their marks, making it easier to understand strengths and areas for improvement

  • Submission process: The practical assessment will be submitted via the NEBOSH online platform after completion of the Unit 1 exam

This change reflects feedback from learners and training providers alike and makes the qualification feel more aligned with real-world competence.

Key dates, results and qualification recognition

If you’re planning your studies, these are the dates that matter:

  • Teaching of the new syllabus begins: 2 February 2026

  • First exams under the new GNC / GIC titles: 4 March 2026

  • Results release: Both Unit 1 and Unit 2 results will be issued together, 60 working days after the Unit 1 exam

Importantly, the status and recognition of the qualification remain unchanged. The NEBOSH General Certificate:

  • Maintains eligibility for IOSH membership (TechIOSH)

  • Remains recognised by IIRSM and employers worldwide

What if you’re already studying?

  • NEBOSH has confirmed transition arrangements to ensure learners are not disadvantaged.

  • Learners who have attempted but not yet passed Unit 2 under the old syllabus will remain on the existing specification, with time to complete it.

  • Learners who have not yet submitted Unit 2 will transition to the new GNC2 or GIC2 assessment.

  • New starters from 2026 will study the updated GNC or GIC syllabus in full.

  • This phased approach ensures continuity while allowing learners to benefit from the improved assessment model.

A positive step forward for learners

Overall, these updates represent a positive evolution of the NEBOSH General Certificate. The revised practical assessment is fairer, more transparent, and better reflects real-world health and safety practice, while the qualification itself retains its strong reputation and professional value.

Training providers are already aligning course materials, learner support, and assessment guidance with the updated syllabus to ensure a smooth transition.

If you’re unsure which version of the qualification applies to you, or you’re considering enrolling and want advice, a learning advisor can confirm the best route and help you plan your next steps with confidence.

To discuss your organisation’s training requirements, visit www.ssg.co.uk or contact the SSG team today on 01752 206161.