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What is a CSCS Card?

What is a CSCS Card? post image

Whether you currently work in the UK construction industry or are thinking about doing so in the future, it’s important to know about how you can go the extra mile. Working hard and showing your dedication by gaining additional qualifications will make you a much more employable industry member than others who take the easy route.

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) offers workers the opportunity to showcase their skills and abilities to contractors and clients, who may be thinking about hiring them. By taking part in the scheme, meeting all the requirements and passing the associated tests, you will be provided with a CSCS card that proves you meet the scheme’s standards and are more than qualified for the job in question. By having a workforce abundant with CSCS card holders, your workplace will be a much safer environment as well as extremely productive, too.

Read on to discover more about the CSCS scheme and its card, including who may benefit from it, how to get your CSCS card and how long it is valid for.

Who needs a CSCS card?

The CSCS scheme is available for a variety of professionals in construction, crafts, operations, technical, supervisory and managerial roles. From Air Compressor Engineers to Gas Fitters and Underground Mapping Operatives, the list is endless as to what roles fall within the CSCS’ remit. Whatever role or specialism you choose to take on in the construction industry, chances are you will benefit from earning a CSCS card.

You can see the complete list of job roles who are eligible for a CSCS card here.

Is the CSCS scheme a legal requirement?

As it stands, it is not a legal requirement to take part in the CSCS scheme and to qualify for a CSCS card. However, many major contractors (especially those who are part of the UKCG) are choosing to make it requirement for their workers to have a valid CSCS card. With that in mind, it’s well worth taking the time qualify for the card, as it will greatly broaden the number of job opportunities available to you.

 

How long is a CSCS card valid for?

Once your CSCS card has been processed, it will be valid for five years. Whilst your health, safety and environment test is only valid for two years on its own, its expiration date will be stretched to the same as your CSCS card, once it has been processed.

It’s crucial that you renew your CSCS card when it nears or reached its expiration date. Each of the scheme’s cards are what’s known as “smart cards”, which allows contractors or clients to scan the card and see information about your qualifications and whether or not your card is valid. Don’t risk losing a job for the sake of a quick and simple card renewal.

Making the effort to earn yourself a CSCS card couldn’t be more rewarding for your career in the construction industry, which you will really begin to reap the benefits of when your job opportunities are dramatically increased. It takes a short amount of time and a little more training, but it will all be worthwhile for your future prospects.