What is the NEBOSH Open Book Exam?

Introduction

If you’re preparing for the NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC)Open Book Exam, it’s important to understand its unique format, assessment criteria, and result process. In this blog, I will explain what is open book exam, share effective preparation tips, and offer guidance on succeeding in the mandatory closing interview. Whether it’s your first attempt or a resit, my goal is to help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to succeed. Let’s make your NEBOSH journey a smooth one

What is the NEBOSH Open Book Exam?

The NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) is a globally recognized organization offering qualifications for health, safety, and risk management professionals.

In August 2020, NEBOSH introduced the Open Book Exam (OBE), a 24-hour remote assessment designed to test the practical application of health and safety knowledge. It permanently replaced the traditional invigilated paper-based format for selected units in key NEBOSH courses, including

• NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) – IG1 unit
• NEBOSH National General Certificate – NG1 unit
• NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety – FSC1 unit

NEBOSH IGC Exam Structure…

The NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC) is a globally respected qualification in occupational health and safety. It consists of two units:

• IG1 – Management of Health and Safety (assessed through the Open Book Exam)
• IG2 – Risk Assessment (assessed via a practical assignment)

Guidelines for Taking the NEBOSH IG1 Open Book Exam

• Duration: IG1 is a 24-hour open book exam completed online.
• Location: You can take the exam from a quiet, safe, and comfortable space.
• Time Management: Although 24 hours are given, most candidates complete the exam in 4–5 hours. Use the time to research, structure, and review your responses.
• Scenario-Based Assessment: The exam includes real-world workplace situations. Candidates must apply their knowledge as if acting in the role of a health and safety supervisor.
• Originality Required: All answers must be in your own words. Plagiarism or copying content may result in disqualification.
• Closing Interview: After submitting your exam, you’ll be invited for a short interview to explain and discuss your responses.

What You Must NOT Do During the Exam:

• Contact your tutor or NEBOSH Learning Partner staff regarding exam content.
• Discuss exam questions or answers with other candidates.
• Receive assistance or proofreading from anyone, including friends or family.

What is in the NEBOSH Open Book Exam?

This open book exam is based on a health and safety scenario, which contains information as follows,

• Employees their roles and responsibilities and their challenges
• Conflicts and disagreements between employees in a working relationship
• Physical Features in the Workplace
• Actions taken
• Existing health and safety problems

You may be asked to:

• Prepare arguments for health and safety committee meetings
• Review and work on recommendations from superiors
• Assess and feedback on organizational health and safety culture
• Plan and justify health and safety requirements

The exam questions can cover any topic from the full IGC syllabus, so thorough preparation is essential.

Six Steps to Take NEBOSH OBE Exam at Home

1. Receive your NEBOSH OBE registration confirmation and login credentials from your course provider

2. Access the OBE platform and familiarize yourself with its features via an auto-play tour

3. On exam day, download the exam paper and answer template from your account

4. Complete and upload your answers within the 24-hour window

5. Attend the closing interview without third-party assistance

6. Await your results

Expert Tips: How to Prepare and Pass the NEBOSH OBE

Here are the practical strategies to help you prepare effectively and pass the NEBOSH IGC Open Book Exam with confidence:

• Check your NEBOSH login details early to avoid issues on exam day.
• Practice mock exams with your tutor and improve based on their feedback.
• Pay attention to command words such as “outline,” “explain,” or “describe” to tailor your answers appropriate
• Use only official course guides and notes; avoid unreliable websites.
• Keep your exam day free to focus without distractions.
• Print the exam paper, if possible, to help plan your answers better.
• Save your work frequently to avoid losing progress.
• Attempt every question; partial answers can still earn marks.
• Take short breaks to keep your mind fresh.
• Review your answers before submitting; check for errors or missing details.
• Write answers in your own words to avoid plagiarism.
• Present your answers clearly and logically to assist examiners.

What Next: NEBOSH IGC closing interview

The NEBOSH IGC closing interview is conducted via video call by an HSE professional appointed by your course provider. This mandatory interview verifies the authenticity of your submitted OBE paper. You’ll be asked 3–4 questions based on your paper and topics from the IG1 syllabus. It must be completed within two weeks of exam submission—missing it results in automatic failure.

Preparation Step to follow are,

• Have a valid photo ID ready.
• Choose a quiet, private location with a stable internet connection.
• Use a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone with a working webcam and microphone.
• Review your submitted answers before the interview.
• Attend the interview without third party assistance.

How to check NEBOSH OBE results online?

One can expect the NEBOSH IGC result after 50 UK working days of the exam

• Visit the NEBOSH Learner Login Portal: https://login.nebosh.org.uk
• Use your Learner Number and Password (provided at registration) to log in.
• Once logged in, you’ll see your assessment results under your qualification details.

NEBOSH IGC Pass Mark and Re-sit Policy

One should score 45% to pass the NEBOSH IG1 exam. Successful candidates will receive a certificate by post within 20 working days of the result date.

If one fails NEBOSH OBE, they can re-sit the exam within 5 years from the date of registration; one should contact the course provider to re-sit and register for NEBOSH OBE again and take up the exam.

If your result doesn’t reflect your expectations, you may request a review by submitting an Enquiry About Result (EAR) within 20 days of receiving your result notification.

NEBOSH IGC Training Course in Green World Group

As a proud NEBOSH Learning Partner, Green World Group offers expert virtual live training delivered by industry-specialist HSE tutors. Our comprehensive digital resources—including audio lectures, session recordings, and OBE simulation exercises—help you prepare confidently and succeed.

We focus not just on passing exams but preparing you to become a skilled safety professional. Contact us today….!!

Author’s Note:

As an HSE expert with years of practical experience and a strong commitment to mentoring safety professionals, I have supported many learners through their NEBOSH journey. In this blog, I’ve shared actionable strategies to help you prepare effectively and approach the NEBOSH Open Book Exam with focus and confidence—so you can perform with clarity and achieve the results you aim for.

– Mr. Jayaprakash, HSE Expert, Green World Group