One of the questions I get asked about the CSCS card is, “What are the minimum requirements for CSCS cards in the construction industry?’
Well, the minimum requirement for obtaining a CSCS card are that you have taken and passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test (also known as the touch screen test), and that you have the relevant qualifications for the particular card you’re applying for. For example, for the Green Labourer Card, this would be the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification.
Once you’ve acquired the necessary documents and provided proof of sufficient training and experience, you can easily apply for your desired card on the CSCS website.
Ready to Get Your CSCS Green Card?
What is a CSCS card?
Let’s start by talking about what a CSCS card is.
The acronym CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme, and it’s managed by the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board). Basically, the CSCS card is a way for you to show that you have the necessary qualifications to work on construction sites. Once you’ve obtained the required qualifications and passed the test, you’ll be given a CSCS card.
According to the official CSCS website, the purpose of the card is to:
“provide proof that individuals working on construction sites have the appropriate training and qualifications for the job they do on site. By ensuring the workforce are appropriately qualified the card plays its part in improving standards and safety on UK construction sites.”
With that out of the way, let’s go into the requirements for CSCS Cards.
The Different Types of CSCS Cards
There are different types of CSCS cards. Below are the various types available, each with its color and set of requirements for CSCS Cards:
Green CSCS Card (Labourer)
If you’re new to construction, the key card you’ll need is the Green CSCS Card. This entry-level card is designed for labourers or those just starting in the construction field.
To obtain this card, you’ll need to complete two steps: first, pass the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test (also known as the CITB touch screen test), and second, earn the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification.
If you’ve only completed the CITB test, you’re eligible for a temporary CSCS card, but keep in mind it’s only valid for six months and might not be accepted on all construction sites.
As of 2020, to secure a full CSCS Green card, which lasts for 5 years, you must have both the CITB test and the Level 1 qualification. After passing both, you submit your qualifications to CSCS and pay £36 for the Green Labourer card.
There are other types of CSCS Cards, and you can learn more about them in the infographics below:
Delving Deeper into the Requirements for CSCS Cards
In this section, I will be breaking down in greater detail the requirements for a CSCS Cards mentioned above.
The CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course
The CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course is a one-day training course targeted at new applicants to the construction sector. This course teaches students about health and safety on the job site. It also gives them the legal duties and responsibilities they should know in the construction and civil engineering industries.
This course is a major requirement for all CSCS cards, just like the CITB Touch Screen course is. This is because it provides many benefits, including helping applicants gain their CSCS laborer’s card, which will give them access to construction sites.
After finishing this course, you will have a better understanding on:
- Health and Safety Law
- The need to prevent accidents
- How your current role fits into the overall control and management of the job site
- Risk assessments and method statements
- How to report unsafe actions to provide accidents
- Performing safely and asking for advice
Keep in mind that after passing the course, you should wait at least 24 hours before you start to apply for a CSCS card.
Industry-Specific Qualifications
When applying for a CSCS Card, you must have the proper qualifications first. However, each industry has specific qualifications required for all applicants before they can be approved for certain cards.
The CSCS website features updated qualifications you should look for, and it is quite vital to look into them before you take another step further.
Below are some of them:
NVQs/SVQs
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) measure your competency in a set of frameworks from a particular skill. It has multiple levels, and higher levels would require applicants to demonstrate more complex skills.
Level 2 NVQs are required for blue-skilled CSCS cards, Level 3 NVQs are required for gold cards, and Level 5, 6, and 7 NVQs are required for black cards.
NVQs are typically assessed on a portfolio of evidence from an applicant and on practical assignments. The assessor will observe the applicant while working and will try to question them about the work that they are currently doing.
Then, the assessor will sign off the individual units within the NVQ if the applicant can reach the required standard.
Applicants can do an NVQ via Experienced Worker Practical Assessments (EWPA) or On-Site Assessments (OSAT). These assessments are quicker and cheaper but may also result in the achievement of full NVQs. However, keep in mind that they require applicants to have years of working experience in their current occupation.
In Scotland, however, they use Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) instead of the NVQs, but their qualifications are similar.
Card/s you can apply for with this qualification:
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship is when an employer takes on an apprentice as a paid employee. They will provide them with training and recognized apprenticeship standards as they work. At the end of an apprenticeship, they will be assessed.
Card/s you can apply for with this qualification:
3. Higher National Certificates/Diplomas (HNCs/HNDs)
Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas are the courses higher education colleges provide on technical skills. HNDs are a level higher than HNCs as they take longer to complete. An HNC course typically takes a year (2 if taken part-time), while an HND course takes two years (4 if taken part-time).
Card/s you can apply with this qualification:
4. Postgraduate Certificates/Diplomas and Degrees
Postgraduate certifications, diplomas, and degrees are qualifications awarded by a qualified institution, typically a college or a university.
There are three levels to a degree, including:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Doctorate
However, not all degree levels will get a CSCS card.
Card/s you can apply with this qualification:
5. Membership in a Professional Body
Professional Body Memberships are allowed by the CSCS as a qualification. These professional bodies assess the competency of their members as part of their membership.
Card/s you can apply with this qualification:
6. Historical Qualifications
CSCS recognizes that most construction workers may hold several qualifications that are no longer available, like:
- City & Guilds Craft (Advanced Craft)
- Approved/Indentured/Employer Apprenticeships
Aside from these two, there may be other historical qualifications that the CSCS considered equivalent as a qualification. If you believe that you hold a historical qualification, you can contact the CSCS team directly through their website.
You can upload your document on CSCS Card Finder and select that you can’t find your qualification. A representative should contact you later to confirm your eligibility for a CSCS card.
7. Construction-Related Degrees
This qualification is usually required for Academically Qualified Persons (AQP) CSCS Cards, valid for 5 years. This includes CIOB Certificates, NEBOSH Diplomas, and HNDs and HNCs.
8. Trade-Specific Qualifications
Trade-specific qualifications vary depending on the type of job you plan on applying for.
Please know that this is only a general guide on the industry-specific qualifications, and it’s still better to check out the CSCS website to confirm the details.
How to apply for a CSCS Card
The application for a CSCS card is pretty quick, and you can complete it in less than an hour online. However, make sure that you have met the requirements for CSCS Cards and have all of the valid documents you will need before starting your online application.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick checklist of what to have on hand for your CSCS card application:
- A digital copy of your qualification certificate or proof that you’re signed up for the required qualification.
- Your CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test pass letter, which should have your CITB Testing ID and mention the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment.
- A debit or credit card ready for the fee payment.
If you’ve passed the test within the last two years, you’re all set to apply for your CSCS card. Just a heads-up, though: if you’ve only just passed the test, give it about 24 hours before you start your application to make sure everything’s processed correctly.
To pay the application fee, you’ll need your credit or debit card details at the ready.
Once you’ve got all this sorted, simply log into your CSCS online account and follow the step-by-step instructions to apply. And if you need a little extra help, I’ve attached a video above that’ll walk you through the application process.
How to prepare for the Health, Safety & Environment Test
The Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Test is an important assessment that measures your knowledge and understanding of workplace health, safety, and environmental practices.
This test is typically required for individuals working in industries such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, and other high-risk environments.
To prepare for the HSE Test, here are some steps you can follow:
Access study materials
CITB recommends that you take a relevant training course, and work through all the sample questions in the revision materials provided by the organization conducting the test. These materials are designed to help you understand the relevant regulations and best practices. You can often find these resources on official websites or by contacting the relevant authorities.
Use online resources
Explore online platforms, websites, and forums that offer free or paid practice tests, sample questions, and study materials related to the HSE Test. These resources can help you assess your knowledge and identify areas where you need further study.
Take practice tests
Practice tests are an excellent way to assess your readiness for the HSE Test. They help you become familiar with the question format, time constraints, and the level of difficulty. Analyze your performance on these tests to identify areas where you need improvement.
Choose the right test
Depending on the type of work you’ll be doing on construction sites, there are various CITB Health, Safety & Environment Tests. You should select the test that best fits your job role, such as the Managerial and Professional test or the Operative test.
Take the Test
Maintain a calm and focused mindset during the test, and read each question carefully before selecting your answer. Trust in your preparation and give it your best effort.
FAQS
How long does it take to get a CSCS card?
Once your application is approved and you meet the requirements for CSCS cards, your physical card will be delivered to your address within 3 to 5 days.
According to the information provided on the CSCS website, if the card hasn’t arrived within four weeks, you’re to contact CSCS. However, if 90 days have passed and your card still hasn’t been delivered, your application will be considered closed.
What happens if I don't meet the minimum requirements?
Since the CSCS card serves as proof of training and qualifications for working on construction sites, not meeting the minimum requirements means you won’t be eligible for the card.
And without a CSCS card, likely, you won’t be allowed to work on most construction sites, as many employers and site managers require workers to hold a valid card as a condition of employment.
Can I work in construction without a CSCS card?
In some situations, you can work in construction without a CSCS card, but it might reduce your available opportunities. For instance, if you exclusively work within the domestic sector, the requirements for CSCS cards might not arise frequently.
However, when it comes to larger projects or those commissioned by the government, most contractors and clients prefer workers who have a card. In the end, CSCS cards are a tool, and it’s the employers who decide if they want to use them.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been asking, “what are the minimum requirements for CSCS cards,” I hope this post has provided all the information you need. The process should be quick if you have the qualifications and valid documents required.
Applying for your first CSCS card doesn’t have to be complicated. Take a look at the One Day Health & Safety Course here and tick off one item from your list!
Lastly, don’t hesitate to drop any questions or thoughts you have about CSCS cards in the comment section. We’re happy to help!
