For a long time working in the construction industry was a relatively simple process. A worker could go to a construction site, seek out the foreman, ask about work, and get hired. There was always work to be done and not enough people to do it. Now, however, the situation has changed. Over 80% of contractors and other employers are requiring all workers to have at least a CSCS card. This card documents proof that the potential worker has the qualifications and a full understanding of the health and safety issues concerning construction work.
What is a CSCS Card?
The CSCS Card was introduced by the CITB to provide a means to prove construction site workers were qualified and aware of the health and safety issues related to the job. It quickly became the standard within the industry. Today over 1.3 million construction workers have been issued cards. Without one, a person will find it all but impossible to obtain work on a construction site. The CITB created a colour scheme for the cards to identify the position or job for which a worker was qualified.
The Green CSCS card is issued to those workers who have the basic skills and function as labourers. A person can obtain a Green CSCS card following one of two processes: obtaining a level 1 Construction NVQ, or through an employer’s recommendation/ industry accreditation. The latter process is only open for a limited time period. Regardless of the process the applicant for a Green CSCS card must have passed the Construction Skills health, safety & environment test within two years of application. The test is administered through CITB accredited CSCS Test Centres. If the applicant has also passed the working at heights health, safety & environment test, that too will be endorsed on their card. The Green CSCS card is valid for five years from the date of issue.
NVQ’s and CSCS Cards
NVQ is the abbreviation for National Vocational Qualification. It is a ‘competency-based’ qualification meaning you learn the practical, work-related tasks needed to effectively perform the job. The NVQ can be completed through formal education at a college, through an apprenticeship program, or through work as part of an On-Site Assessment & Training (OSAT). The latter is usually done by experienced workers who do not have the time to attend a more formal program.
Obtaining a Construction NVQ
Applicants are allowed to take their own time to complete the NVQ. There is no time limit to complete the NVQ, once a person has obtained their NVQ and passed the construction skills health, safety & environment test, the CITB will issue the Green CSCS card.
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