CSCS Cards – The Colours, The Costs and What You Need To Do To Get Your CSCS Card Sorted Out
What does CSCS stand for and why do I need a card?
CSCS stands for “Construction Skills Certification Scheme”, originally created in 1995 by the Construction Leadership Council.
The scheme has since been widely adopted across the Construction Sector
The CSCS Card Scheme provides an easy means of ensuring all people working on building sites have a basic understanding of Health & Safety issues and a recognisable level of competence for the trade they are working in.
The card contains personal details of the holder and a photograph. In addition, the holder’s CSCS Registration Number and designation of the card is on the front – with the trade for which the holder is qualified shown on the rear.
The construction sector found the scheme beneficial in that production of a card would signify the worker concerned was competent and aware of general health and safety issues relevant to building sites.
Many employers started to adopt an “all carded” approach so they could be reassured as to the basic knowledge their staff could be expected to have.
Over the years, the CSCS has developed, partly to deliver enhanced benefits to employers and site agents – such as the addition of a “smart” chip so cards may be easily verified – and to drive the construction sector’s migration to a fully qualified workforce.
There are now many ‘Partner’ schemes to the original one, which takes into account the breadth of occupations in the construction sector. An example is the Asbestos Removal Management Institute scheme, for people who undertake the removal of asbestos from buildings.
In 2012, the basic Health & Safety test was enhanced to include environment issues and it is now called the “Health, Safety & Environment” test.
This was in response to the development of the “Considerate Construction” scheme and has broad reaching effects, preventing disturbance to wildlife, unnecessary noise and the risk of pollution of waterways and drains from work taking place nearby.
However, whilst the original scheme was also intended to signify the trade competencies of the holder, the vast majority of cards issued were either Green “Site Operative” or White “Construction Related Occupations” cards – which obviously did not reflect any specific trade skills.
Much of this was due to resistance on the part of the workforce, many of whom objected to having to “be tested for the job they’d been doing for years”.
Additionally, Site Agents under pressure to get work completed were often tempted to turn a blind eye to workers whom they knew could get the work required done.
Clearly, further rigour needed to be applied to the scheme. The first step taken in 2014 was to withdraw and replace the Green “Site Operative” card, which was re-designated “Site Labourer” and which required the holder to undertake a Level 1 Health & Safety in a Construction Environment qualification.
Unsurprisingly, this caused people to seek out a card they could get easily and without the expense of qualifications and there was a rush in applications for “Construction Related Occupations” cards, originally intended for people who were responsible for cleaning finished properties or similar non-trade tasks associated with building.
The CSCS and employers reacted swiftly – the “Construction Related Occupations” card was withdrawn in 2017.
At the same time, the “Visitor” card was also designated for withdrawal and went out of use in August 2020.
What has been less noticed, but very welcome, has been the reduction in both injuries and in particular deaths on construction sites. One death is too many, but in the latter 2000’s hundreds of people were being killed or injured on construction sites every year.
It is fair to say that since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of employers/sites requiring the “right” card for a particular trade has increased substantially.
It’s fair to say the CSCS Card Scheme is now fully embedded and understood within the Construction Sector
Many Sites Won’t Let You Work Without A CSCS Card
It is also the case that the United Kingdom is an outlier amongst similar countries in permitting unqualified people to undertake construction work. Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States require licensing of contractors.
There’s no doubt when the Public Inquiry into the Grenfell Tower disaster of 2017 publishes the report about that tragedies’ circumstances, further pressure will come for the competence of construction workers to be evidenced by qualifications.
Can I get a CSCS Card without an NVQ?
The position now is that more and more sites are “fully carded” and you need a CSCS Card to work on them. The CSCS is working with the industry to avoid people being refused entry to sites when they don’t need to perform a construction related task.
However, you won’t be able to undertake “trade” work without the appropriate card – usually a Blue “Skilled Worker” card.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) recommends “Cards will be required by those working predominantly on construction sites undertaking a recognised construction occupation.“
To get the Blue CSCS Card, you will need a “nationally recognised construction related occupation” for that trade at Level 2.
Sometimes this is misinterpreted to mean the National Vocational Qualification, but that’s not the case – many other qualifications may be recognised, and it is always worth checking with CSCS before spending more money.
You may not need to have a CSCS Card at all – it is fair to say the scheme has been misinterpreted by some people in the construction sector and clarification was issued recently with a list of occupations for which no CSCS card is required being published. You can see that list here.
The CLC also says “Cards will not be issued in respect of non-construction related occupations.”
You do not need a card if you are on a short term (30 days maximum) work placement.
If you have taken the appropriate CITB Health, Safety & Environment test (often called the CSCS Skills Test or CSCS Touch Screen Test) within the past two years and you have the relevant qualification, all you need to do is go online to the CSCS website and make your application.
It’s important you do that directly through the CSCS website, because there are many ‘lookalike’ websites where you will pay (sometimes quite substantial) ‘administration fees’.
Here’s an example of a Google result for ‘CSCS Card Application’ The top two sites charge £65.00
If you have passed the CITB Test in the last two years – you can get a new card without taking it again.
Which CSCS Card do I need?
The easiest way of finding out is by going to the CSCS Card Finder referred to earlier.
Most people will need at least either a “Site Labourer” Green Card or a Blue “Skilled Worker” Card.
However, there are Supervisor, Manager and Professionally Qualified Person cards – always check and you can’t go wrong.
What qualifications do I need to get a CSCS Card?
Once again, the Card Finder is your friend in this regard – just put in your trade and it will generate a response of which card you need and the qualification you must hold to get it.
What if I don’t have a qualification but need a CSCS Card?
Examples Of Temporary CSCS Cards
Within the range of CSCS cards are both Temporary and Provisional Cards.
For example, you can get a card if you are an Experienced Worker but have never held formal qualifications – many people call this “Time Served”.
To get the Red “Experienced Worker” card, you must have a year or more in your trade, be registered for a qualification and will need to send a copy of your registration to the CSCS to get issued with your card.
Provisional CSCS cards are issued to people who are working temporarily – for example someone who is being considered for a full time job, or as a potential Apprentice and who is on work experience.
Temporary cards cannot be renewed – the CSCS have become wise to their potential misuse.
However, they provide a means for people to enter the trades or start work on a “Fully Carded” site – or for an employer to migrate the workforce to fully qualified status.
There is also a CSCS “Trainee” card and one for people undertaking Apprenticeships. Both these are Red and gain access to work on carded sites. Apprenticeship cards are free.
Can I claim “Grandfather Rights”?
To avoid wholesale disruption of the industry, when the CSCS scheme was first introduced, Industry Accreditation, also known as Grandfather Rights, was created so that existing “time served” workers could obtain CSCS cards on the strength of their employers’ recommendation rather than having a recognised qualification.
Whilst people already holding a card are currently able to renew it on the same basis, the Industry Accreditation classification and associated card was closed to new applications in 2010.
There are still about 60,000 people holding these cards, but from January 2020, all cards issued will expire in December 2024 and the card will not be issued for renewal from June 2024.
So if you have “Grandfather Rights” you are OK until the end of 2024, but if you have never applied for them, or have let your card lapse, you will not be able to use this classification to get a card.
How do I get the qualifications I need for a CSCS Card?
Remember the good news – the money you spend on qualifications to get your CSCS Card can be claimed back in your tax return for the year.
This applies even if you are employed, rather than self-employed.
SuperSkills receives many enquiries from people who want to get qualified in order to move on from their present position, or whose employer does not offer training to staff.
Please also bear in mind, that if you (or the company your work for) are registered for VAT, that element of our invoice is fully recoverable.
Many calls we receive start with one of two misconceptions…. “I need my City & Guilds” or “I want my Level 3” so let’s start with those.
“City & Guilds” isn’t a qualification, or a qualification standard. It is an Awarding Organisation, regulated by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).
Historically, they were associated with trade skills and in particular, construction qualifications.
That’s why so many people will have (back in the day) been through apprenticeships or other courses under their brand name.
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) developed their own awarding body Construction Skills, delivering similar qualifications and during the 2000’s joined the City & Guilds in the Construction Awards Alliance.
Subsequently they parted and CSkills Awards was created, an awarding body owned and operated by the CITB. CSkills quickly became the leading awarding body for the construction sector.
Unsurprisingly, having the sector skills council, the awarding body and the card scheme operator under the same roof drew suggestions of a conflict of interest, so the CITB was forced to sell off CSkills Awards, leading to its purchase by the NOCN Group in 2017.
SuperSkills has been around long enough to have worked with the various awarding bodies throughout this time. Whilst we’re looking forward to a period of stability, we are very happy to be delivering NOCN_CSkills Awards qualifications in the knowledge they present the best opportunity for construction workers to get qualified quickly, simply and conveniently.
NOCN_Cskills Awards is the leading awarding body for Construction NVQs
What are NVQ’s?
The letters “NVQ” stand for National Vocational Qualification. In Scotland, Scottish Vocational Qualifications, or SVQ’s. They are equivalent and interchangeable.
Unlike qualifications you get at school or on a training course, vocational qualifications are based on what you can do. NVQ’s need your work to be assessed and set against national standards.
NVQ’s are regulated by the Qualification & Curriculum Authority (QCA). To award the NVQ, the awarding body must get approval for how the programme of learning and assessment is designed from the QCA.
NVQ’s start life with a Sector Skills Council, such as the CITB. Employers work with the Sector Skills Council and set standards for every trade at a particular level.
Why are NVQ’s at different levels?
A Site Carpenter at Level 2 will be required to have a set of skills and competencies, both personal and job related. At Level 3, these will be for more complicated work and supervisory duties.
For example – Level 2 Site Carpenters are assessed “Installing first fixing components in the workplace”, whereas Level 3 assessment involves “Installing bespoke first fixing components in the workplace”.
The supervisory nature of the role is demonstrated – Level 2 “Conforming to productive working practices in the workplace” and at Level 3 “Confirming the occupational method of work in the workplace”.
As a basic rule of thumb, Level 2 qualifications sit with GCSE’s and Level 3 are more equivalent to “A” Levels.
Level 2 qualifications will get you a Blue “Skilled Worker” Card and Level 3 a Gold “Advanced Craft” or “Supervisor” CSCS Card.
“I want my Level 3” – Our first question when a customer asks how to get a Gold CSCS Card is to ask why.
Often, we learn the potential candidate is (quite rightly) demonstrating his or her pride in trade skills gained over decades and wants them to be recognised. They are “Advanced Craft” workers.
But usually all they need is a Blue “Skilled Worker” CSCS card to get on or stay on site. That’s why our advice – always given freely and impartially – is “Level 2 will do”.
Yes it’s great to have a Gold Level 3 card, but the Level 3 qualification is much bigger and more expensive than the Level 2.
Level 2 starts at £775 for a Site Work Assessment and nearly every potential Level 3 candidate will be eligible for that “Fast Track” route to qualification. Level 3 will usually be £1150.
So, we will always find out your reasons for wanting the Level 3 qualification. Otherwise you’re doing the equivalent of putting expensive alloy wheels on your works van. Nice to look at but won’t pay you back.
Your qualification from CSkills Awards gained through SuperSkills will be delivered by On Site Assessment & Training.
I have a Diploma from XXX College or YYY Training Provider, but the CSCS won’t give me a card – why not?
This is a question we get asked too frequently. It is particularly annoying to us because the potential customer on the phone is deeply unimpressed.
They have often spent a lot of time and money getting a Level 2 or 3 Diploma and only now discover it is not the NVQ they originally needed – or indeed asked for. We’ve written about this before.
Public Sector Further Education Colleges are particular offenders in this – and they should know better.
Even if the Administrators in their booking office don’t put somebody on the right course, the Assessors, who after all, have to be tradespeople, should recognise that Harry in his fifties, who’s been painting and decorating since he left school, doesn’t need to do a year or two of evening classes.
Similarly, you can’t go on a six or eight week course and get an NVQ at a training provider. You must be assessed in the workplace.
Whilst many people get their skills doing this, they find afterwards the NVQ assessment element is not available in their area.
Level 2 NVQ’s can be either Certificate or Diploma qualifications and the different names do not necessarily mean anything significant. Generally, a Certificate-level qualification will involve less work by the candidate than a Diploma.
Look for accredited qualifications. CSCS will only accept qualifications that are accredited by a recognised awarding body. These awarding bodies are regulated by Ofqual in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and SQA in Scotland.
Check the expiry date. CSCS cards typically last for five years, so make sure any qualification you’re considering isn’t nearing its expiry date.
How much will it cost to get a CSCS card?
The overall cost of getting a CSCS card will depend on a few factors:
Whether you need a qualification or already have one
The type of card you want- the Level 1 qualification for a Site Labourer card is the cheapest, with Level 2 for a Blue Card and Level 3 for a Gold Card being more expensive
As a rough guide, you can expect to pay somewhere between £150 and £1200 to get a CSCS card up to Level 3.
The cost of taking the CSCS Health, Safety & Environment test.
Is there any financial help available?
There may be financial help available to cover the costs of getting a CSCS card, such as:
Grants from the Construction Industry Training Board – businesses registered with the CITB are eligible for Grants when NVQ’s are achieved by their workers. See the details here.
Government Agency Grants – for example if you are unemployed and in receipt of benefits. You will have a Work Coach who can advise you about getting financial help.
Help from your employer – especially if they are eligible for VAT relief or CITB Grant – although SuperSkills has an Easy Payment Scheme, you may find getting the fee deducted from your pay more suitable if your employer can’t pay on your behalf.
Reimbursement through tax relief – submit our invoice with your self-assessment return.
It’s always worth checking to see if you’re eligible for any financial assistance before you start paying out for qualifications and tests.
A Few More Tips About CSCS Cards
Keep your CSCS card up to date – CSCS cards typically last for five years, so you’ll need to renew it before it expires.
At that point you will need to resit your CITB Health, Safety & Environment test
You will not need to retake your qualification to renew your CSCS Card
Take a scan of your qualification Certificates – we get calls every day from people who’ve lost them
Report a lost or stolen card – If you lose your CSCS card, you’ll need to report it to CSCS as soon as possible.
Conclusion
A CSCS card is as necessary as a set of tools for anyone who wants to work in the construction industry. It demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to work safely on site.
The process of getting a CSCS card can be a bit complex, but hopefully, this guide has helped to explain the steps involved.
You Can Get The NVQ You Need For Your CSCS Card At SuperSkills
CSCS Cards - The Colours, The Costs and What You Need To Do To Get Your CSCS Card Sorted Out
If you have any more questions, or ever need FREE ADVICE about getting your NVQ and CSCS Card, just call SuperSkills Construction Training on 01845 527 445. We're only too happy to help. Read More...
Noise awareness training is essential for organizations to protect employees from the harmful effects of excessive noise exposure in the workplace.
This specialized training educates workers on how to recognize hazardous noise levels, use protective equipment such as earplugs or earmuffs, and understand the importance of regular hearing tests.
By raising awareness about noise-related risks and promoting safe practices, companies can create a healthier and more productive work environment while ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
Workplaces should hum with productivity, not reverberate with a cacophony of noise. Yet, across the UK, many work environments grapple with an invisible menace: excessive noise. It’s a threat that not only affects our well-being but also impacts our ability to thrive. That’s why Noise Awareness Training is so important.
Whilst most employers take care of the obvious safety risks, noise is frequently overlooked, yet poses a threat to health that far outweighs the risk from many other activities that are tightly controlled.
This is particularly relevant in the construction sector – all the plant and nearly all power tools in use generate noise and those above the permitted levels are more common than those below.
So, why should we take workplace noise seriously? Let’s break it down:
Noise is measured in Decibels and their are different levels at which action has to be taken.
80 dB(A): Imagine this as the “action level.” When noise hits this threshold, employers must step in. It’s like a friendly nudge to turn down the volume.
85 dB(A): Now things get serious. At this “exposure action value,” employers must provide hearing protection. Picture a bustling open-plan office or a construction site – that’s the buzz we’re talking about.
87 dB(A): This is the legal limit. Going above it, even with protection, is a big no-no. Think rock concerts – definitely not work-appropriate acoustics!
Key information – The increase in volume is logarithmic, rather than linear, so 85dB(A) is Five Times Greater than 80dB(A).
Beyond the Obvious – Sources Of Workplace Noise
The Usual Suspects: We all know them – plant and machinery, blaring music, noisy printers, and chatty colleagues.
The Sneaky Culprits: Did you know that air conditioning systems, fluorescent lights, and even keyboard clicks contribute to noise pollution? These seemingly innocuous sources add up, creating a low-level buzz that nibbles away at our concentration.
The Architectural Echo Chamber: Open-plan offices, with their hard surfaces and lack of sound barriers, are notorious for amplifying noise. Even a hushed conversation can morph into a distracting echo.
The Downside of the Din
Hearing Loss: This is the most obvious risk. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing damage, leaving us with a diminished ability to appreciate life’s symphony.
Productivity Takes a Hit: Imagine trying to focus on a complex task while surrounded by a symphony of drills, hammering, and machinery. It’s like trying to read a novel during a rock concert – not exactly conducive to productivity. Excessive noise disrupts our concentration, leading to errors, missed details, and decreased efficiency.
Stress and Well-Being: Noise isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a stressor. Our bodies react to constant noise by releasing stress hormones. We become constantly alert to potential danger. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even anxiety. A harmonious work environment, on the other hand, promotes well-being and keeps stress at bay.
Communication Breakdown: Ever tried having a meaningful conversation on a busy site or in a bustling cafeteria? It’s a challenge! Workplace noise hampers effective communication. Misunderstandings occur, instructions get lost in the auditory chaos, and collaboration suffers. Clear communication is essential for safety and productivity. The expression“I can’t hear myself think!” has some truth to it.
Legal Responsibilities: Employers have a legal duty to protect their staff from excessive noise exposure in the workplace. By conducting regular noise assessments, providing hearing protection equipment, and offering noise awareness training, employers can ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Prioritizing the protection of employee’s hearing not only fosters a safe work environment but also reduces the risk of long-term health issues associated with noise-induced hearing loss.
Taking Action
Engineering Controls: Let’s tackle noise at its source. Can we modify the machinery or equipment to reduce noise emissions? Perhaps invest in quieter tools or implement soundproofing measures. Engineers and designers play a crucial role here.
Administrative Measures: Rotating workers away from noisy areas, scheduling noisy tasks during quieter hours, and creating designated quiet zones – these administrative strategies can make a significant difference.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When all else fails, don those ear defenders! High-quality earplugs or earmuffs shield our ears from excessive noise. Remember, PPE isn’t a fashion statement; it’s a shield against the workplace roar. And don’t forget – if you’re using Bluetooth-enabled ear defenders, don’t have your Spotify playlist blasting your ears – you’re rather missing the point!
Let’s Be Proactive
Noise Awareness Training: Educate employees about noise hazards. Make noise awareness training a regular part of workplace safety programs. Teach them how to recognize risky noise levels and encourage reporting of any concerns. SuperSkills has this training available in an online format.
Regular Checks: Monitor noise levels periodically. Are they creeping up? Investigate promptly and take corrective action. Remember, prevention is better than hearing loss cure.
Checks On Individuals: Some occupations carry inherent risks associated with noise. In the early 20th Century, Tinnitus was commonly referred to as ‘Boilermaker’s Ear’ because people engaged in industrial process using rivets presented with the condition – or considerable hearing loss – so frequently. As the condition is progressive, regular hearing checks can identify a problem before the worker becomes disabled
How Can You Measure Noise In A Workplace?
Sound Level Meters
Probably most accurate and reliable method for measuring noise levels. These meters measure the sound pressure level in decibels (dB). They can be set to different weighting scales, such as A-weighting, which accounts for the sensitivity of the human ear to different frequencies.
This small, wearable device measures the noise exposure of an individual worker over a period of time, typically a full work shift. It’s particularly useful for workers who move around throughout the day or are exposed to intermittent bursts of noise.
Again, Noise Dosimeters are very cheap and this one retails at less than £20.00
Smartphone Apps
Where would we be without Smartphone Apps?
Several smartphone apps can measure noise levels, although their accuracy may not be as good as professional equipment. However, they can be a handy tool for quick and easy noise checks, especially in smaller workplaces.
Environmental Noise Monitoring Systems
When smaller noise monitoring arrangements are inadequate, the whole area needs to be covered
For large workplaces over a long period, these systems consist of a network of permanently installed sensors that continuously monitor noise levels throughout the site.
They provide real-time data and can be used to identify areas with high noise levels and track noise reduction efforts over time.
How Often Should Noise Levels Be Monitored?
In a noisy work environment, it’s essential to regularly monitor noise levels to protect workers’ hearing and well-being. Here are some guidelines:
Every Two Years: Generally, you should check whether a review is needed at least every two years. This ensures that noise exposure remains within safe limits and allows for adjustments if necessary.
Initial Health Surveillance: When a worker is exposed to noise levels regularly, health surveillance (hearing checks) should be conducted when the person is recruited.
Annually for the First Two Years: Initially, perform hearing checks annually for the first two years of employment.
Three-Year Intervals: After the initial period, conduct hearing checks at three-year intervals.
More Frequent Checks if Needed: If any hearing issues are detected or if the risk of hearing damage is high, consider more frequent checks.
Adapt to Changes – Noise Levels Can Change Over Time
Monitor Noise Levels Regularly: If there are significant changes in work patterns or equipment, repeat noise measurements.
Ensure the measurements reflect the actual amount of noise the employee is exposed to over the working day.
Here are some additional tips for measuring noise in the workplace
Take measurements at different times of the day and in different areas of the workplace to get a representative picture of the noise exposure.
Be aware of any background noise that could affect your readings.
If you’re using a smartphone app, calibrate it with a professional sound level meter before using it.
Record your findings and keep track of any trends over time.
By following these tips, you can accurately measure noise levels in your workplace and take steps to protect your employees from the harmful effects of noise exposure.
Conclusion: Next time you’re on a construction site or navigating the office buzz, remember that noise isn’t just background chatter. It’s a health issue, a productivity challenge, and a safety concern. Let’s turn down the volume, protect our ears, and create harmonious workplaces where productivity thrives.
Noise awareness training is essential for organizations to protect employees from the harmful effects of excessive noise exposure in the workplace. This specialized training educates workers on how to recognize hazardous noise levels, use protective equipment such as earplugs or earmuffs, and understand the importance of regular hearing tests. By raising awareness about noise-related risks and promoting safe practices, companies can create a healthier and more productive work environment while ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety regulations. Read More...
You might not need to get a CSCS Card at all! These occupations are non-construction related, meaning these workers do not require a card to access sites.
If your occupation is non-construction related and your entry to site is refused because you do not hold a card, please direct the site manager to the CSCS website dealing with this issue.
Alternatively, they should contact CSCS directly via their Contact us page, providing details of your occupation, the main contractor’s name and the site address.
The CSCS will investigate and, if necessary, arrange for the site team to be contacted.
Aftermarket Vehicle Installer
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Automated Material Handling Installations Operative
These non-construction occupations do not require a CSCS card This post should be read with our post about how to get a CSCS Card and the withdrawal of Industry Accreditation (Grandfather Rights). You might not need to get a CSCS Card at all! These occupations are non-construction related, meaning these workers do not require a […] Read More...
What Are ‘Grandfather Rights’ – Also Known As Industry Accreditation?
When the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) was first introduced, there was an obvious need to give people who had been in their trades for years a means to keep on working. This was called ‘Industry Accreditation’.
Under Industry Accreditation,, CSCS Cards were issued to people based on references from employers or other competent people who could certify the person needing the card was capable of doing the job.
This evidence might have relied on the individual’s existing qualifications, or in some cases, just the opinion of the person giving the reference.
Within the Construction Sector, the scheme quickly became known as ‘Grandfather Rights’.
People had a CSCS Card, with their trade on the back and ‘Industry Accreditation’ rather than the qualifications they held.
Some people had the Black ‘Manager’ card, but the vast majority had ‘Skilled Worker’ CSCS Cards, which were blue.
In addition, people who had previously held ‘Advanced Craft’ qualifications, or who were in Supervisory positions, held Gold cards.
Tens of thousands of construction workers still have ‘Grandfather Rights’ CSCS Cards under the Industry Accreditation scheme.
Why Has Industry Accreditation Been Withdrawn?
In 2010, the use of employer references stopped and new CSCS Card applicants had to have the relevant NVQ for their trade, but previously issued Industry Accreditation based cards could still be renewed. (Provided the holder had continuously held the card and kept their CITB Health & Safety Test up to date.)
In 2015, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) decided there should be a single card scheme for the whole industry because with numerous differing schemes in place, it was impossible to maintain consistent standards of training – especially regarding safety on sites.
All cards would need to display the CSCS Logo and would be issued against recognised qualifications (usually NVQ’s/SVQ’s).
Because of problems with fake CSCS Cards, a hologram was introduced and the validity of cards can now be easily checked
In 2019, the CLC decided the industry needed to move to a fully qualified workforce and announced that CSCS Cards issued under the Industry Accreditation would no longer be renewed. (This plan was overtaken by the arrival of the Covid pandemic because CSCS Card renewal periods were extended, but is now applying to people every month as their cards expire.)
The result is that people who have been in their trade for decades are now finding they need to get a qualification in order to renew their CSCS Cards – and unsurprisingly, many don’t know what they need to do. (They’re also deeply unimpressed, because they’ve rightly got a huge amount of pride in their experience and skills, so the last thing they want to do is get the NVQ for a job they know how to do backwards.)
My ‘Grandfather Rights’ (Industry Accreditation) Have Gone – What Do I Need To Do?
Do You Need A CSCS Card?
There’s been quite a lot of confusion over the years about CSCS Cards and who needs them. At one stage, delivery drivers were having to get cards to drop off materials on some sites, which (given the requirements for getting a card, was ridiculous).
So the first thing to know is whether or not you actually need a CSCS Card. If you’re in one of the trades, generally you will, but there are lots of people who work occasionally on sites who do not need cards – See The List Here
You will need to get the NVQ Level 2 for the trade you are in. SuperSkills can help you get this qualification – See Here
You will need to get the NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision. SuperSkills can help you get this qualification – See Here
You will need to get the NVQ Level 3 for the trade you are in. You do not need to get the Level 2 before you take the Level 3. SuperSkills provides a range of Level 3 NVQ’s – See Here
For further information, call 01845 527 445 or fill in our contact form.
Do I Need To Go To College To Get My NVQ For The CSCS Card?
Simple answer – No – and it’s probably not in your interest to do so. Beware the temptation to enrol on a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma programme. For a start, you don’t need any training people have been giving you money to do your job for years. You just need to get your skills assessed and demonstrate you’re working at Level 2/3. Don’t accept ‘reassurances’ that the course you’re being offered is ‘equivalent to an NVQ’. It’s not. NVQ’s have that in their title – for example, the Level 2 Diploma in Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying) is different to the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying) and the major difference from your point of view is you can’t get a CSCS Card with a Diploma that isn’t an NVQ. To obtain a National Vocational Qualification (that’s what NVQ stands for) your work must be assessed in the workplace. So in all probability, you won’t have to be away from work at all.
How Will My Skills Be Assessed?
A combination of:
Photos & videos of you working
Knowledge questions and answers
Witness Testimony (people in the trades confirming your skills)
Professional Discussion (an interview about how you work)
How Much Will The NVQ Assessment Cost?
At SuperSkills, we keep our costs to a minimum and pass the savings on to our customers, so Level 2 NVQ’s are generally £775, and Level 3 NVQ’s £1150. Occupational Work Supervision Level 3 NVQ’s are £975. There’s an ‘Easy Payment Scheme’ and the fees are Tax-deductible. All our prices include VAT. You may find other providers that look cheaper, but check for VAT and hidden ‘extras’ to calculate the real price. We have an expression “What we say is what you pay” if that helps.
Are Grants Available For The NVQ?
If your company is registered with the CITB, they will be eligible for Grant for qualification achievements. The grants can be paid for both Direct (PAYE) and Indirect (Sub-Contracting) staff. You can see the CITB Grant Scheme here.
There are (very limited) grants that may be available from the Adult Education Budget managed by the Department For Education & Skills. (They are not applicable to non-classroom based qualifications.)
Unemployed people may also get financial support from the Department For Work & Pensions – if you’re on benefits, you will have a Work Coach and they should be your first point of contact.
SuperSkills is an approved contractor for DWP funding and we can offer advice about the support available from them and elsewhere.
If you are self-employed, or your employer is not registered with the CITB and will not pay for your assessment, the probability is the support you will receive will be limited to tax relief on the assessment fee.
How Long Will The NVQ Assessment Take?
Usually, NVQ Level 2 candidates with SuperSkills take about 4 – 6 weeks to send us all the evidence we need. Some take longer, for personal or work-related reasons. A few have everything sorted within a month. Level 3 NVQ’s take a little longer, but as with many things in life, if you get on with the assessment, it will be finished more quickly.
What If I Need A CSCS Card Right Now?
If you need a CSCS Card to get access to sites whilst you are being assessed, you can get a Red ‘Experienced Worker’ CSCS Card once you are registered for the qualification.
How Long Does The NVQ Remain Valid?
Once you’ve got your NVQ, you’re qualified to the Level (2 or 3) that it’s set at. You will need to take the CITB Health Safety & Environment Test for Site Operatives every five years to keep your level of knowledge up to date. That’s because the Test is updated based on the information that comes from accidents and incidents that occur on construction sites. When a new risk is identified, new/different questions are added to the Test.
Will I Need To Take The CITB Health Safety & Environment Test As Well As The NVQ?
If you haven’t passed the CITB Health Safety & Environment Test within the previous two years, you have to re-sit it to get a new CSCS Card. This applies even if you are changing your CSCS Card whilst it still has time to run. Don’t Forget – it’s important you book your Test directly through the CITB. There are websites that will charge you a ‘booking fee’ and we’ve heard of people paying over £50 for their CITB Test. If you’re being asked for more than £22.50 – you’re on the wrong website! Book through the CITB by following this link.
For further information, call 01845 527 445 or fill in our contact form.
What Are ‘Grandfather Rights’ – Also Known As Industry Accreditation? When the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) was first introduced, there was an obvious need to give people who had been in their trades for years a means to keep on working. This was called ‘Industry Accreditation’. Under Industry Accreditation,, CSCS Cards were issued to […] Read More...
Usually at this time of the month we start to get calls from people who’ve lost NVQ Certificates.
“Why so?” you may ask, but the reason is pretty simple. CSCS Cards expire at the end of each month, so people start thinking about getting a new one in about the middle of the month.
“Where’s my !*%%*!! certificate?!”
That’s the time they find out the CSCS people need to see proof of their qualifications. It’s always at least five years since they last needed the certificate and it appears some people aren’t that good at storing them safely.
(That’s without taking into account people who have moved house, left home, got divorced and a myriad other reasons.)
Result? They can’t find them and the clock is ticking. So they call us.
There’s an added dynamic now – the CSCS need to see the proof of the NVQ in all cases, whereas until a relatively short time ago, they had that record available to them.
At the same time, the CSCS, the CITB and Awarding Bodies have become more concerned about fairly widespread fraudulent and fake documentation – so it’s hardly surprising they are tightening up on procedures.
They check the serial number on the certificate against their database to see if it is valid.
So the first time trades realise they can’t find their certificates is when they call the CSCS or go onto their website and discover they need to produce the certificate to get a new card.
Applying For A CSCS Card
To apply for a CSCS Card now, you’re best going online and setting up an account using the CSCS Online Portal. Once you have done that, you can start your CSCS Card Application.
Your CSCS Registration Number – which will be on your present card, or available from your training provider
A scanned copy of your qualification certificate, or proof that you are registered to complete a recognised construction related qualification relevant to your occupation.
A scanned copy of your pass certificate for the appropriate level of CITB Health, safety and environment (HSE) test, which must be within the last 2 years.
A credit or debit card to pay the £36 application fee.
And it’s the third of these that causes all the problems – lost NVQ certificates become an issue only when you need them!
We’ve always kept a copy of our candidates’ NVQ certificates, so when people call us who have come to SuperSkills for their NVQ Assessment, in most cases we have been able to help them. We’ve just looked in our records and presto – there it is.
However, even we have to archive or destroy those copies after a lapse of time.
The only option at that stage – or if the person got their Construction NVQ somewhere else – is for them to apply to the original Awarding Body for a Duplicate. There will be a “search fee”.
The name of the Awarding Body is the essential piece of information you need if you’ve lost your NVQ Certificate.
Without the Awarding Body’s name, you won’t have a place to start.
You can call NOCN_CSkills Awards on 03009991177 option 1 then option 3. Alternatively, go to their replacement certificate online form here
Call City and Guilds on 01924930800. You will need your six digit Centre Number. (If you don’t have that, you are limited to their online process described below.)
They also have a replacement certificate application form here. They charge a non-refundable fee for the search of £44.00.
But here’s a tip – if you know you got your qualification from City & Guilds and it was before 2005 – they are most unlikely to recover it.
If your qualification wasn’t for Construction trades, you may still want to look at NOCN as the awarding body, but you might want to include Pearson Qualifications (they also go under the name Edexcel).
Their phone number isn’t published on their website, but you can apply for a replacement certificate by following this link
And, just for completeness – and based on a call received over two years after this post was first written – there’s OCR – dealing with a very limited range of Non-Construction qualification NVQ’s, but a whole raft of academic qualifications. They have contact details and an online form to get a replacement certificate on their Home Page
If you gained the qualification more than 10 years ago, they may not be able to issue you with a replacement but it’s worth a phone call to find out .
However, if you really cannot locate your lost NVQ certificates, you may end up having to pay for another assessment.
Which is a pain.
So – whether you need to renew your CSCS Card this month, this year, or in five years time – make sure it’s safe!
And when you go home tonight, scan your NVQ and Health & Safety Test certificates and store the images somewhere.
Any PDF file will do – if you don’t have a desktop scanner, you will find there are loads of free telephone Apps that will enable you to scan documents.
Avoiding lost NVQ certificates is, after all, the best way to take the hassle out of renewing your CSCS Card.
If you do need to get assessed for your NVQ – and let’s hope not because you’ve lost your NVQ certificates – call us on 01845 527 445.
It's at this time of the month people discover they can't find their NVQ Certificates.
Here's what you can do to avoid or overcome the problem of lost NVQ certificates. Read More...
You Don’t Need To Pay The Usual Fee Of £36 For An Apprentice CSCS Card
Listen Here
Although SuperSkills no longer trains Apprentices, we offer congratulations this morning to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) for removing the £36 fee for getting a CSCS Card in the case of employees starting an apprenticeship.
Apprentice CSCS Card
There used to be quite a lot of faff for employers to get an ‘Apprentice’ CSCS card. So many of them were instead opting to register staff for a green ‘Site Labourer’ CSCS Card. This meant also getting them through the Level 1 Health & Safety in Construction qualification. And also the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) ‘Site Operative’ Health & Safety test.
The New System
Submit evidence of the CITB Site Operatives test pass
Finish the brew you made before you sat down to make the application
Using the form should prevent unnecessary delays, but the CSCS will also accept other forms of evidence:
A letter or email from the Managing Agency of your apprenticeship. This confirms which qualifications (with full titles and pathways) you are registered for.
A letter from your apprenticeship training provider confirming which qualifications (with full titles and pathways) you are registered for.
Your Apprenticeship Agreement, provided it shows the occupation and qualification (including pathways) you are registered for.
A letter from your training provider delivering a programme from the CSCS Approved Apprenticeship Standards (England Only) list. (It’s helpful to consult the list to make sure you use the right title in your application. They’re not all in ‘Plain English’)
The CSCS will also accept different forms of Health & Safety accreditation:
A CITB Health, Safety and Environment test pass from within the last two years (as above)
A completion certificate for a one-day Construction Health and Safety Awareness course. You can take this with SuperSkills online – see here.
A Certificate of Unit Credit showing completion of a Construction Health and Safety unit. If this is included in your induction or initial qualification.
Some Hints & Tips
Make sure you have the right Photo ID. Lots of young people (so the majority of Apprentices) don’t get Photo ID until they are 18 (for obvious reasons). It’s a good idea to get one sorted out now, because you will need it for training/examination/CSCS Card purposes.
If you are joining an employer for a ‘trial’ period, just get a ‘Provisional’ CSCS Card, which last six months. All you need for that is a CITB Site Operatives test pass. It save the faff of getting a health & safety qualification. By the time it expires, you will know whether the Construction is the right choice for you.
Not the card you’re looking for? Perhaps you are more suited to the Green ‘Site Labourer’ CSCS Card referred to above, rather than the Apprentice CSCS Card. Take a look here or call us on 01845 527 445 for some Free Advice.
Site Labourer CSCS Card
For further information, call 01845 527 445 or fill in our contact form.
You Don’t Need To Pay The Usual Fee Of £36 For An Apprentice CSCS Card Listen Here Although SuperSkills no longer trains Apprentices, we offer congratulations this morning to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) for removing the £36 fee for getting a CSCS Card in the case of employees starting an apprenticeship. There used […] Read More...
DO NOT JUST GOOGLE “CSCS TESTS” – you will no doubt find at the top a load of “online booking” sites. These all charge a “booking fee” which is totally unnecessary and will make your test cost about £25 more than it should.
I spent a few minutes “Mystery Shopping” one of these sites with equally mysterious details this afternoon to show you what I mean. £41.00 for a £22.50 test. It’s disgraceful.
It’s little wonder people get frustrated with the CSCS scheme when people do this.
ALSO – if you need the NVQ to be able to get a Blue CSCS Card – you will NOT have to take the test if you have passed it within the last two years.
If you need to know more about the CSCS Cards or Tests, click here.
So – NEVER Google to get your test – ALWAYS book direct.
If you need details of the NVQ training and assessment services we offer, Click Here
DO NOT JUST "GOOGLE" CSCS TESTS - you will no doubt find at the top a load of "online booking" sites. These all charge a "booking fee" which is totally unnecessary and will make your test cost about £15 more than it should. Scroll down to see what you should do. Read More...
It was inevitable really – after Covid cases rising for weeks and many areas in the country being placed under ever greater restrictions – the Prime Minister having to hold a press conference in which he has updated the nation about new measures to contain Covid-19.
I have never (I doubt any of us have) experienced such a period of uncertainty. For life to change so quickly and our ability to do the things we had become used to being taken away almost without warning.
There is no doubt jobs and the economy will take another huge hit – and our hearts go out to everyone affected, whether by getting the virus, or not being able to work. That particularly affects trades who have always worked in people’s houses, rather than on building sites.
Even though construction is an exempt category in general and there are protocols for getting work done in residential premises, lots of trades we speak to are finding people don’t want to have work done in their houses and their work is drying up.
SuperSkills Construction Training is in one of the exempted categories and is permitted to keep going during the “lockdown” period.
It follows that our assessments can go ahead as normal unless circumstances change. In a world of bad news, this means that people who have always done “domestic” work, but who now find they need to get onto sites, but don’t have CSCS Cards, can get the NVQ they need quickly, simply and conveniently.
We are obviously taking the safety of our candidates and staff seriously – we have been doing assessments under Covid secure arrangements since we reopened in June – and remember that if you have symptoms of Coronavirus or have to self-isolate for any reason, you can change your assessment date and just let us know.
You will not lose your deposit in these circumstances. We’ve always adopted a sympathetic approach when people’s arrangements need to change and we’ve no intention of changing now.
There is accommodation available in Thirsk, so if you need an overnight stay, we will do our best to get you fixed up.
You can always contact our office on 01845 527445 should you need any advice.
In the meantime, we trust you and yours remain well and sincerely hope you are not affected by this dreadful virus.
It was inevitable really – after Covid cases rising for weeks and many areas in the country being placed under ever greater restrictions – the Prime Minister having to hold a press conference in which he has updated the nation about new measures to contain Covid-19. I have never (I doubt any of us have) […] Read More...
This Coronavirus Toolbox Talk is from the CITB website – reproduced here for the benefit of SuperSkills website visitors, site supervisors and construction workers in general.
Coronavirus is a highly contagious disease that can have severe effects on people, especially those who are vulnerable. The virus is likely to pass from person to person in communal areas and where it is not possible to maintain safe distances between persons. If a person is infected while working it can be passed on through families and other contacts. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms.
Outline
This talk covers the ways to maintain your health while working on construction sites.
Getting to work
Wherever possible travel to site alone, using your own transport (for example, a car or bicycle).
Avoid public transport.
On site
Wash your hands when you arrive on site, regularly throughout the day (especially if you sneeze or cough and after eating or handling food) and again when you leave site.
Always keep at least 2 metres away from other workers. This includes while you are working and during breaks and mealtimes – staggered breaks will help achieve this.
Stay on site for your breaks. Do not use local shops. Bring your own meals and refillable drinking bottles. Do not share items (for example, cups).
Only hold meetings that are absolutely necessary. Ideally, these should take place outdoors, with the minimum number of people and those people should be kept at least 2 metres apart.
Close work
Close working should be avoided.
Non-essential physical work that requires close contact between workers should not be carried out.
Work requiring skin-to-skin contact should not be carried out.
All other work should be planned to minimise contact between workers.
Re-usable PPE should be thoroughly cleaned after use and not shared between workers.
Single use PPE should be disposed of so that it cannot be reused.
Stairs should be used in preference to lifts or hoists.
Cleaning
Extra cleaning should be carried out on site, particularly in the following areas.
Taps and washing facilities.
Toilet flush and seats.
Door handles and push plates.
Handrails on staircases and corridors.
Lift and hoist controls.
Machinery and equipment controls.
Food preparation and eating surfaces.
Telephone equipment.
Keyboards, photocopiers and other office equipment.
What to do if you think you are ill
If you develop a high temperature or a persistent cough while at work, you should:
Report this to your supervisor.
Avoid touching anything.
Cough or sneeze into a tissue and put it in a bin or, if you do not have tissues, cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow.
Return home immediately.
You must then follow the guidance on self-isolation and not return to work until your period of self-isolation has been completed.
Self-isolation
If you have any one of the following criteria, do not come to site.
A high temperature or a new persistent cough – follow the guidance on self-isolation.
Are a vulnerable person (by virtue of age, underlying health condition, clinical condition or pregnancy).
Living with someone in self-isolation or with a vulnerable person.
Site policy
Now inform your workers of the site specific policy on coronavirus.
Follow the 2 metre rule at all times.
Further guidance
The Construction Leadership Council has issued site operating procedures aimed at introducing consistent measures on sites of all sizes in line with the Government’s recommendations on social distancing.
Note: this is a rapidly developing situation – please ensure that you follow the latest Government guidance as it is published.
This Coronavirus Toolbox Talk is from the CITB website - reproduced here for the benefit of SuperSkills website visitors, site supervisors and construction workers in general. Read More...
There are few events that are truly “unprecedented”, even though they come as a surprise to people who should have made proper arrangements to deal with them – the recent floods are a good example. However, the outbreak of Coronavirus that has so quickly become a global pandemic can be describe accurately using that term.
There is no part of the economy that will go unaffected by these events, so it is not surprising the construction sector is coming under strain. And every business is going through a steep learning curve to operate in a manner that means customers will feel safe dealing with them.
For a business like SuperSkills, this means making sure we do everything we can to eliminate the possibility of infection to our customers and staff.
Until last week, SuperSkills had not been affected by the Government’s restrictions on premises being open. However, when the more restrictive “lockdown” regime was announced, SuperSkills followed the advice and came away from our premises until further notice.
We contacted all the people who were booked in for practical assessments – they will be the first people we assess when the present restrictions on movement are lifted.
The telephone is still being answered – and a surprising number of people are calling for advice – don’t just worry about what to do regarding your NVQ, CSCS Card or Health & Safety test status – if you cannot find the answers you need by following the various links on this page, then call us on 01845 527 445
We (as in me) are regularly attending the premises to get the mail – it’s usually the Qualification Certificates for candidates that have arrived from the Awarding Body – so it’s important they get them as soon as possible.
We’ve done this because now is not a time to make life difficult for people – we need to stand together to come through this crisis. Customers are the life blood of this business – they always have been and always will be.
That’s why we are also pleased to see the CITB and CSCS respond to the Coronavirus emergency with sensible and pragmatic steps to deal with potential delays in the issuing of CSCS Cards as a result of difficulties in getting a Health, Safety & Environment Test.
There is a new version of the CSCS Health & Safety test available for local managers to administer when somebody has not been able to get an on-screen test done because there are no test centres open at the moment.
It’s contained in an application for iPhones and PC’s – with an Android version to follow.
There are few events that are truly "unprecedented", even though they come as a surprise to people who should have made proper arrangements to deal with them - the recent floods are a good example. However, the outbreak of Coronavirus that has so quickly become a global pandemic can be describe accurately using that term.
There is no part of the economy that will go unaffected by these events, so it is not surprising the construction sector is coming under strain.
For a business like SuperSkills, this means making sure we do everything we can to eliminate the possibility of infection to our customers and staff. Read More...
Until last week, SuperSkills had not been affected by the Government’s restrictions on premises being open. However, when the more restrictive “lockdown” regime was announced, SuperSkills followed the advice and came away from our premises until further notice.