CSCS Cards and construction sites

Almost all of our clients have had experience – good and bad – with the CSCS scheme. It has become a key requirement for any person wishing to enter a construction site and this includes those staff (ourselves included) who only enter to observe others.

The scheme has faced some criticism in the past for the limited number of trade qualifications which it recognises and moves are afoot to address this.  Unfortunately, additional changes will mean that those applying for a basic ‘green card’ will face a requirement for further qualifications, read on to find out more.

The current system

Depending on the level of card required, the individual had to pass a health and safety touch screen test and provide details of trade qualifications.  The touch screen element is relatively straightforward and can be completed at a number of locations around the country – many of them test centres linked to driver licensing and similar – for a list look here; https://www.cscs.uk.com/cscs-cards/health-and-safety-test

The difficulty with the CSCS scheme has always been in recognising qualifications with many highly experienced site managers and other professional not being in possession of the required NVQs and other formal qualifications which the system requires.

CSCS Green Card

Due to this difficulty many people have given up and gone for the simpler option – known as the “construction site operative” version. To get the green card you only need to pass the touch screen test. However, the CSCS has identified that this is being misused and is planning to make obtaining one a lot more difficult.

Changes to the CSCS Scheme

From July 2014, anyone applying for an entry level green card will be required to achieve a knowledge-based qualification, “Health and Safety in a Construction Environment”. There’s also talk that the individual may have to go down the NVQ route as well.

We should stress that this is the current best knowledge position and things could change but its well worth being aware of this change.  If your site staff are currently using green cards you could find that this will cause you an issue.  Some good news is that since 30 September, CSCS will also recognise these additional construction-related qualifications: HNC, HND, degrees, NEBOSH construction certificates and national diplomas, CIOB certificates.

If you’ve got questions or need support on safety in the industrial, contracting or construction sectors please contact us for sensible and proportionate advice on 01453 800 100