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CPD you can do in an hour – or less

Date posted
13 December 2024
Type
News
Author
Ali Barlow
Estimated reading time
2 minute read

Continuing professional development, or CPD, is an investment in yourself. It’s about maintaining and improving your skills and knowledge, ensuring you remain current and effective as a safety and health professional. And it’s relevant throughout your career.

But how do you fit it into a busy schedule? Four of our members share the activities that offer valuable learning opportunities in a shorter space of time.

Members’ tips

Affiliate Member Dr Mohammad Aref believes in the power of an hour. He said: “In just one hour, you can transform your professional growth by engaging with a focused CPD activity. For example, exploring a new industry trend, reviewing a key case study, or reflecting on lessons learned from past projects. 

“Every small step adds value and keeps you ahead in a dynamic field.”

Juliet Lindop TechIOSH is new to CPD but has already found what works for her. She said: “I enjoy reading, which is a bonus, as I can sit down in the evening and read something relevant from IOSH magazine. I also find some of the Health and Safety Executive bulletins are a very useful resource.”

Syed Fraz Hassan Zaidi CertIOSH listens to IOSH podcasts during his commute to work, turning travel time into a learning opportunity. “I encourage everyone to explore various CPD activities,” he said. “You never know which one might inspire you.”

Technical Member Jaci Stewart logs in to the CPD resource library as soon as her CPD cycle begins in November.

“I like to start with Blueprint activities. I choose courses that you can do when you have a few spare minutes, as some are only 15 minutes.”

Activities you may not realise are CPD

There are lots of different ways of doing your CPD – and you’re probably doing many of them without even realising. Here are just 10 of the activities that count:

  • work shadowing
  • coaching
  • discussion with colleagues
  • mentoring
  • writing reports
  • researching/writing articles
  • research on the internet
  • voluntary work
  • informal networking
  • public service.

CPD is a key benefit of IOSH membership – and we can provide help and support to help you get the most out of the programme.

Last updated: 20 December 2024

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