OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM)
An advanced, globally recognised qualification equipping professionals with expert knowledge in process safety management, hazard identification, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and emergency response across high-risk industries.
Course Features
The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management is a master's-level qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), comprising 6 mandatory units, 120 credits, and 600 Guided Learning Hours. It is approved and regulated by Ofqual and delivered through blended learning over 6–12 months.
- 6 Mandatory Units covering all key PSM domains
- 120 Credits / 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)
- RQF Level 7 — equivalent to Master's degree standard
- Approved and regulated by Ofqual (UK)
- Blended delivery: Online and Distance Learning
- Globally recognised by employers in oil & gas, chemical, and industrial sectors
About This Course
In today's complex industrial landscape, ensuring the safety of personnel, the environment, and assets is paramount. Industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals face inherent risks associated with their processes. The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM) provides a comprehensive, advanced-level curriculum designed to equip professionals with the expertise to assess, manage, and mitigate these risks in diverse industrial settings.
Globally recognised qualification approved and regulated by Ofqual
Equivalent to master's degree level (RQF Level 7 / 120 credits)
Comprehensive coverage of all core PSM disciplines and frameworks
Practical, assignment-based assessment aligned with real-world industrial challenges
Progression pathway to master's top-up at UK and overseas universities
Applicable across oil & gas, chemical, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical industries
What You'll Learn
The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management develops advanced competencies across all six mandatory units. Upon successful completion, learners will be able to demonstrate mastery of the following official learning outcomes.
Understand the fundamental concepts, principles, and key elements of a process safety management programme and recognise its critical importance in industrial environments
Gain knowledge of process safety management systems (PSMS), understand the function and significance of safety instrumented systems (SIS), and learn how to design, implement, and maintain effective PSMS and SIS
Acquire a comprehensive understanding of process safety engineering principles, identify and assess process safety hazards and risks, and explore engineering controls and strategies for enhancing process safety
Develop skills in emergency planning and response procedures, understand effective emergency preparedness, and learn to develop emergency response plans and coordinate response efforts during incidents
Understand the legal and regulatory framework governing process safety, identify relevant laws, regulations, and standards, and learn to ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements in process safety practice
Recognise the importance of environmental protection in process safety management, understand the potential environmental impacts of industrial processes, and apply strategies for minimising environmental risks and ensuring environmental compliance
Who Should Attend?
The OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management is designed for professionals working in, or aspiring to work in, high-risk industrial sectors where process safety is a critical concern. It is particularly suited to mid-to-senior level practitioners who need advanced knowledge to lead safety initiatives and ensure regulatory compliance.
Process Safety Engineers responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with industrial processes
Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Managers overseeing safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and process safety measures
Risk Assessment Specialists evaluating hazards and recommending risk control measures
Operations Managers responsible for ensuring process safety protocols are followed in industrial facilities
Regulatory Compliance Officers ensuring adherence to laws, regulations, and standards in process safety management
Plant Managers, Safety Consultants, and professionals in oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals seeking internationally recognised credentials
Course Content
Explore the comprehensive OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management (PSM) course content designed to help you master the material through structured modules and lessons.
Unit 2: Process Safety Management Systems (PSMS), Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)
Unit 3: Process Safety Engineering
Unit 4: Emergency Planning and Response
Unit 5: Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Unit 6: Environmental Protection in Process Safety
Course Requirements
Applicants for the OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management are expected to meet the following official entry requirements. Non-native English speakers must provide evidence of language competency in line with OTHM's English Language Expectations.
A bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field such as engineering, chemistry, environmental science, or occupational health and safety
A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in process safety-related industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or petrochemicals
Assessments
All units within the OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management are assessed internally by the approved centre and externally verified by OTHM. The qualifications are criterion-referenced, meaning learners must demonstrate fulfilment of all learning outcomes and meet the standards set by the assessment criteria to achieve a pass.
Internal assessment by the approved OTHM centre through written assignments for each unit
External verification of all units carried out by OTHM Qualifications
Criterion-referenced assessment based on the achievement of all specified learning outcomes
Specific assessment guidance and relevant marking criteria are provided to centres via the official Assignment Brief document
Progression
Successful completion of the OTHM Level 7 International Diploma in Process Safety Management enables learners to progress in their careers and pursue further academic qualifications. As this qualification is approved and regulated by Ofqual, learners are eligible to progress to master's top-up programmes at numerous UK and international universities with advanced standing.
Progress to a Master's top-up degree or MBA programme at UK and overseas universities with advanced standing
Pursue senior professional roles such as Process Safety Manager, Risk Assessment Consultant, or HSE Manager
Advance into specialist positions including Safety Engineer, Process Safety Consultant, or Regulatory Compliance Officer
Explore further academic study in related disciplines, such as Environmental Management or Occupational Health and Safety
Apply Now For This Course
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