Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Green Card

In accordance with Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) recommendations, anyone who is a labourer on a construction site in the UK, must be a CSCS Green Card Holder. There are several different CSCS cards which cater for the full range of construction occupations, from Apprentice to Manager. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the CSCS Green Card for Labourers. How can you qualify for a green card and what benefits does it bestow?

As some of the major construction firms begin to re-open sites closed down during the coronavirus pandemic, the demand for suitably qualified labourers is set to soar. Why not use your time on lockdown to up-skill and put yourself in the best position for these new positions?

What is the CSCS Green Card for Labourers?

The CSCS Green Labourer Card is part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS). Anyone working as a labourer on a construction site must hold a valid CSCS. An employer hiring a CSCS qualified labourer can be confident that they have the requisite health and safety knowledge alongside a solid understanding of construction site best practices, allowing them to work safely on site. The card is valid for five years, at which time, the individual must apply to renew their card.

The design of the CSCS card changed on 9th December 2019 so labourers may hold different versions, both of which are valid. Every card contains a microchip which can be scanned using a smartphone or tablet app, allowing potential employers to check the validity of the card. Cardholders can access their online CSCS account to view the status of their card.

Why Do I Need a CSCS Card?

If you intend to work as a labourer on a construction site, any ethical and safety-conscious employer will expect to see a valid CSCS green card. Without one, an individual will struggle to secure work. The CSCS is not a legal requirement, but many contractors will only employ those who hold a valid card. The CSCS exists to increase safety on construction sites. By holding a valid card, a labourer is helping to keep themselves, their colleagues and any other site visitors safe.

Who Can Apply for a CSCS Green Labourers Card?

The Green Labourers CSCS card is the most common type of CSCS card. To be eligible for a CSCS Labourers card, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have a scanned copy of your qualification certificate, or proof that you are registered to complete a recognised construction related qualification relevant to your occupation
• Have attended the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) touch screen test

The CITB course covers basic health and safety on a construction site, such as how to prevent accidents, conduct risk assessments and safety checks, how to report accidents and the core elements of the Health and Safety Act. At the end of the course, participants must pass a multiple-choice exam.

How Do I Obtain My CSCS Green Card?

At Howlett Health and Safety Services, we continually review, update and add to our training courses, ensuring that our clients have access to the support they need when they need it most.

This month we have launched a brand new, Online Level 1 Health & Safety in a Construction Environment Course, specifically designed for those working on construction sites as a labourer. Candidates who take this course will have the option to upgrade to the fully accredited online invigilated exam which will be required for a CSCS Green Card application.

While some construction sites have remained open, or partially open, we know that many labourers are currently stuck at home, unable to work. Make use of this time by completing our fully online course from home. Our online invigilated examination can be taken from anywhere with internet access.

There’s no need to wait for examination centres to re-open or endure the hassle of travelling. Our examination system will deliver the final assessment directly to you via the internet. The exam will be rigorously invigilated using screen sharing and webcam. Candidates will receive their Green Card quickly and easily.  This course provides a speedy and hassle-free option for individuals or employers wishing to up-skill workers.

Are you keen to obtain your CSCS Green Card? Would you like to find out more about our new Level 1 Health and  Safety in a Construction Environment Course?   Get in touch today – we’re here to help.