CSCS Cards are useful tools commonly held by construction workers – but what are CSCS cards? Do you need one? What are CSCS care actually for? If you’ve ever found yourself faced these questions and are looking for some answers, you’re in the right place!
We’ve put together this handy blog to help answer all of your frequently asked questions about CSCS cards, including how you can earn your CSCS cards with Access Training, and how having a CSCS card will advance your career in construction.
What is a CSCS card?
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is a training and qualification scheme within the UK construction industry.
A CSCS card is a form of certification from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The CSCS card is available to all construction workers within the UK, and it proves that the worker has the correct qualifications and training to safely carry out construction work to a high standard.
Put simply, it's a document which allows employers or site managers to recognise the skills and experience of a construction worker.
CSCS Card FAQs:
Do I need a CSCS card to be a construction worker?
There is no legal requirement for a construction worker to obtain a CSCS card, but it is up to the discretion of the company or contractor that they are working for whether or not it is needed to be on site.
It is very common for contractors or employers to check whether construction workers have a CSCS card before allowing them on site.
Whilst it isn't required, it is still recommended to get a CSCS card as it can open up more job opportunities, and it means you won't get stuck in a difficult situation if you need one to complete a job at the contractor's discretion! It is becoming very common to hold, or to be asked for, a CSCS card as a construction worker, so it's definitely worth getting hold of one.
Why should I get a CSCS card?
There are many benefits to getting a CSCS card for your construction career. For example:
- You'll be able to take on more tasks (depending on the requirements of the contractor/employer).
- It shows your competence and skill as a construction worker.
- It is a widely recognised form of certification.
- It contributes to improving safety standards on UK construction sites.
How do I get a CSCS card?
If you've found yourself wondering 'how do I get a CSCS card?'. you're in the right place. To get a CSCS card, you will need to pay £22.50 to take the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test.
This test is also known as the CSCS test, as you will need to pass it to obtain your CSCS card. In this test, you will be given multiple choice questions about health and safety in regard to the construction industry. This will demonstrate your knowledge and skill, allowing you to achieve CSCS card status as a construction worker.
In addition to passing the test, applicants must also hold at least one of the following:
- An RQF Level 1/SCQF Level 4 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment.
- An SCQF Level 5 REHIS Elementary Health and Safety Certificate.
- The NOCN/CSkills Awards Construction Health and Safety (F/618/0738) unit
- A CSCS approved alternative qualification.
Click the buttons below to explore our NVQ Construction Qualifications, which will provide you with a Level 2 NVQ qualification.
Plastering NVQ Level 2 Carpentry NVQ Level 2
Is there more than one type of CSCS card?
There are different levels and types of CSCS card. Read on to find out more about each type of CSCS card.
The labourer's card (also know as the 'construction green card' or 'green labourer's card', is a card for those that carry out labouring duties on a construction site. To obtain this card, you will need a Level 1 Award or a similar alternative.
If you have achieved a Level 2 NVQ, you can obtain a blue skilled worker CSCS card.
If you have a Level 3 NVQ, you can obtain a gold CSCS card which shows your skilled worker status.
- Academically Qualified Person Card
If you have a construction-related degree or diploma, you can obtain the AQP card.
- Professionally Qualified Person Card
You will need to acquire a CSCS Card before you can apply for a PQP card.
Become a Construction Worker
If you'd like to become a construction worker, then we have all the resources you could ever need. Including a friendly and supportive environment, flexible monthly payment options, and career support long after the completion of your chosen course.
We have a range of construction courses available for those looking to get into construction work, including:
Gain industry-recognised construction qualifications and grow the industry by becoming a construction worker today! Contact us for any further information or queries.
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