Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)

What is the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)?

CSCS is the leading skills certification scheme within the UK construction industry.

CSCS cards provide proof that individuals working on construction sites have the required training and qualifications for the type of work they carry out.

The scheme keeps a database of people working in construction who have achieved, or are committed to achieving a recognised construction related qualification.

CSCS is a not-for-profit limited company. Its directors are from employer organisations and unions representing the breadth of the industry. The scheme’s application processing and contact centre is delivered under contract by CITB.

MHA contractors currently require their own employees and all construction workers on their sites to hold a valid CSCS card.

In order for client representatives working on site to provide evidence that a basic level of competency in Health, Safety and Environmental awareness has been achieved, the MSF2 Framework Community Board has agreed that they hold a relevant CSCS card. The most appropriate card is probably the White/Yellow – Academically Qualified Person CSCS Card. Details on how to apply are shown below.

Applying for a CSCS card

CSCS card applicants need to prove they have the training and qualifications required to carry out their job and apply for the correct card for their occupation.  The requirements can be checked by using the online cardfinder which will also confirm which type of CITB Health, Safety and Environment test needs to be passed (see below for more information).

CSCS cards cost £30 and the separate CITB Health, Safety and Environment test costs £19.50. There are organisations that offer card application services. If you are being charged more than £30 for a card or £19.50 for a CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, check that you understand what additional services you will receive.

If you are an employer applying for or renewing CSCS cards you may use the CSCS Employer Application form and email it to employerapplications@citb.co.uk. This will mean that multiple applications can be managed by one person in your organisation and they can be paid for in one transaction.

Before submitting:

• Carefully check the guidance page and the application rejection reasons to check that the cards you are applying for can be processed through this route
• Ensure that all applicants have passed the appropriate level CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for their occupations. Find out which tests they need to take by using the online cardfinder
• Ensure that you have provided all the information required. You must submit supporting documents as attachments – we cannot accept any information detailed within the email.

The person named on the Employer Application Form will be contacted to collect payment and resolve any queries prior to the cards being dispatched. If you hold a CITB account, your account will be automatically invoiced. (Please ensure your CITB account number and purchase order are entered on the application form). This process can take up to 10 working days.

Booking the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test

You can book the CITB Health Safety and Environment Test for your applicants here. The test costs £19.50.

If the person taking the test needs additional support e.g. accessibility or literacy, please call the booking line on 0344 994 4488.

Further information is available on the CSCS website: www.cscs.uk.com/applying-for-cards