Can I work in major sites without a CSCS card? In most instances, you’ll not be allowed to work on a major site without having a CSCS card. While it’s not a legal mandate, most big sites and contractors in the UK require one. They won’t hire you without it.
In my experience as a Health & Safety Manager, I’ve witnessed firsthand how crucial CSCS cards are. It holds massive weight in the construction industry since it shows and proves that a person is well-trained and knowledgeable about the health and safety standards, and precautions at a construction site. That’s why major sites prefer people with a CSCS card since it allows them to create a culture of safety within their construction environment.
So, if you’re aiming for a job on a big site, getting a CSCS card is a smart move. It shows you’re committed to safety and increases your chances of landing the job you want.
What is a CSCS Card?
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme or CSCS Card is a nationally recognized card that can prove you are appropriately trained and qualified for the job you are applying for on the site.
A CSCS card is a widespread scheme established in the UK and set up to help improve safety and health standards in the construction field. So, while not a legal requirement, most major sites today often require their workers or job applicants to have a CSCS card to show they have the proper training to do their jobs safely and efficiently.
There are 13 different types of CSCS cards, ranging from apprentice to manager. If you are a beginner, you should likely aim for the ‘Green Labourer’ or the ‘Red Apprentice’ card, depending on the route you want to take.
Ready to Get Your CSCS Green Card?
Ready to Get Your CSCS Green Card?
The consequences of not having a CSCS card
Do you need a cscs card to work on site? And is it illegal to work on site without a cscs card?
Well, in sites where I’ve worked, I’ve seen people denied access to construction sites unless they could provide their CSCS cards or proof of qualification.
While not imposed by law, know that having a CSCS card is still the industry standard today. You can find a job without a card, but note that there is more struggle and challenges compared to job hunting with one.
The CSCS official website supported this by claiming “most principal contractors and major house builders require construction workers on their sites to hold a valid card.”
While the card is not a legal obligation or requirement, most sites and companies impose them to improve the safety and health standards of their construction environment.
So much so that about 80% of all construction and building sites in the UK operate with a “No Card, No Work” policy. Plus most job adverts looking for workers in the construction sector ask for applicants to already have a CSCS Card before they apply.
Exceptions to the rule
Still wondering if you can work in construction without CSCS Card? Fortunately, not everyone working on a construction site needs a CSCS card.
Unlike construction workers who need a relevant CSCS card to work at a construction site, people entering the site to conduct non-construction-related work do not need one.
The CSCS card official site confirmed: “If you work in a non-construction related role, you do not need a card.” They also clarified that you don’t need a CSCS card if you are on a short-term work or job experience placement for less than 30 days.
Due to the vast array of skills needed on a construction project, there are multiple times when a worker with non-construction-related experience enters and arrives on the site — security guards, cleaners, catering staff, or company officers, for example.
Their safety on site will be the responsibility of the site managers.
How to get a CSCS card
Here is how you can get a CSCS card:
- Workers are required to complete the necessary training for the job. That will vary heavily on the card type they are applying for, but most CSCS cards need you to finish or at least enroll in an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).
- You will also need to take and pass the CITB Health Safety Environment Test and as well as the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course, after a payment of €36. You can easily book that test on CITB’s official website.
- Once you have the results, you can apply for the card on the official website of the CSCS. The page will contain all the requirements you need.
FAQS
Who needs a CSCS card?
Workers actively working and present in a construction site need a CSCS card. You will undoubtedly need one if you manage or carry out work on a construction site. While not imposed by the law, these cards are typically contractual requirements set by the company, employer, or contractor.
How much does a CSCS card cost?
According to the official website of the CSCS, the card cost £36. Note that that amount is only for the card itself. That means there are other fees, like the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test, which costs £22.50, as well as the cost of the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course.
Some organizations also offer CSCS card application services. If you are interested in these services, be ready to pay extra for charges.
How long does it take to get a CSCS card?
Most CSCS cards tend to arrive within 3-5 days of application approval, although there are rare cases where it can take up to 10 days. If your card doesn’t arrive after ten days, contact the CSCS for further assistance.
Can I work while waiting for my CSCS card?
Do you need a cscs card to work on site?As long as you present proof that you passed all the necessary tests and that your card is being processed, you can start working. Most construction sites allow workers at the site while waiting for their CSCS cards to arrive.
So, can you work on construction sites without a CSCS card?
Can I work on major sites without a CSCS card? It’s possible but it can be quite challenging.
The first wall you will undoubtedly hit is finding a principal or major contractor that will allow you to work without the card since most companies and contractors nowadays require them.
CSCS cards are important because they represent your commitment to safety and expertise in construction standards.
We at TrainInHealthAndSafety.com offer relevant and informative courses that can help you prepare for your CSCS card test. Our leading course today, Level 1 Award in Health and Safety within the Construction Environment, should help you safeguard your professional career in the construction industry.
