This Level 5 Diploma has replaced the old NVQ Level 4. The NVQs have become increasingly popular within the safety industry. A salary survey in 2010 identified that NVQ holders earned more than the NEBOSH Diploma holders, proving that competence in the workplace is essential to the job selection process.

The new NVQ 5 is on a par with the NEBOSH Diploma level 6. IOSH holds both qualifications at entrance level for Grad. IOSH membership. Students studying for Level 5 Diploma ideally should have undertaken a Level 3 or 4 H&S qualification (such as the NEBOSH International Certificate, NVQ level 3 in Health and Safety or Certificate in Environmental Health (CIEH) L4 in H&S) and be undertaking a substantial H&S role within the organisation.