Acquiring a CSCS card can be confusing, especially if it is your first CSCS card application. The CSCS Blue Skilled Worker card is one of the more popular cards available amongst construction professionals as it is a great next step up from the Green Labourer Card. This article will clearly communicate the necessary steps to successfully apply for a blue CSCS card.
- Pass a CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
Before anything else, in order to successfully gain a Blue CSCS card, it is a necessity for you to have passed a CITB Health, Safety & Environment test within the last 2 years of your blue CSCS card application. CITB tests can be separated into 3 sections, each dedicated to a specific sector of construction work:
- CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Operatives
- CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Specialists
- CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Managers & Professionals
A CITB test has a total of 50 questions to be completed in 45 minutes. Workers are required to get a score of at least 45/50 to pass, while those taking the test for Manager & Professional positions (MAP test) require a minimum score of 46/50.
- Achieve a Level 2 NVQ or Construction Apprenticeship Equivalent
Upon having a valid CITB test, it is important to have at least one of these two options:
- Achieved a Construction Level 2 NVQ or SVQ
Or
- Complete a construction related apprenticeship, an employer sponsored apprenticeship, a City and Guilds of London Institute Craft Certificate or a Trailblazer qualification that is approved by CSCS.
An NVQ qualification will help you develop knowledge and skills in relation to general health, safety and welfare in construction, along with dealing work practices and handling resources. It is important to note that this is a competence-based qualification, where learners will be gaining knowledge and skills through on-the-job experience or in a learning environment.
- Get Blue Skilled Worker CSCS card
Once you’ve passed your CITB test and achieved your construction NVQ equivalent, you will then be ready to receive your blue CSCS card. Once your application has been approved, your CSCS card should be posted the next working day and should arrive within 3-5 working days.
Summary
All Blue and other CSCS card services can be found at trusted affiliate sites such as Construction Helpline, who provide nation-leading construction safety services across the UK. By providing online services for both individual workers and construction firms, we hope to help further digitise construction safety education.