What is a CSCS card?

CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme. The CSCS Card serves as proof of competence in the industry.  Most contractors and construction clients insist that workers on their sites hold the   appropriate CSCS card for the work they undertake. This qualification is aimed at those who require a better understanding of health and safety for within the workplace. The emphasis is on making the employee safe for him / herself, safe for others and capable of identifying potential hazards. We delivers CSCS qualification that confirms individuals working in the built environment have the necessary training and qualifications.

There is a range of CSCS cards to cover most occupations in the construction industry. Your current job, your previous experience and any qualifications you have will determine which type of card you should apply for.

Qualification
Pearson BTEC Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (QCF

Credit value: 4
Guided learning hours: 40

Introduction

The Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment provides learners with an essential foundation in relevant matters of health and safety. It is suitable for individuals wanting to work in the construction industry and those already employed in the industry seeking to renew their knowledge in this area. The qualification is required to apply for the Construction Skills Certification Card Scheme (CSCS) Green Card for Labourers which is very often required for access to construction sites in the UK as a non-skilled worker.

Entry requirements
No prior knowledge, understanding, skills or qualifications are required before learners register for this qualification.

 Assessment
The assessment is based upon Classroom Observation, Group Discussion, Practical demonstration , Observation of learner’s skills, Question and answer sessions Assessor / Learner feedback.

Objective of the qualification - Student Notes

The Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (QCF) is for learners who work in, or want to work in Construction.
It gives learners the opportunity to:
 develop introductory knowledge related to health and safety in the Construction industry
 develop introductory skills in health and safety in the Construction industry
 learn about health and safety issues related to different occupations in the Construction industry
 achieve a nationally-recognised Level 1 qualification
 develop their own personal growth and engagement in learning.

Learning outcome                 

Assessment Criteria
The learner will:
The learner can:
1. Know the principles of risk assessment for
maintaining and improving health and safety
at work.
1.1. State the purpose of risk assessments and
method statements.
1.2. State the legal requirements of risk
assessments and method statements.
1.3. State common causes of work-related:
 fatalities
 injuries.
1.4. State the implications of not preventing
accidents and ill health at work.
1.5. State the meaning of the following in
relation to health and safety at work:
 accident
 near miss
 hazard
 risk
 competence.
1.6. List typical hazards/risks associated with
the following:
 resources
 equipment
 obstructions
 storage
 services
 wastes
 work activities.
1.7. State the importance of reporting accidents
and near misses.
1.8. State typical accident reporting procedures.
1.9. State who is responsible for making
accident reports.
2. Know the importance of safe manual
handling in the workplace.

2.1. State the reasons for ensuring safe manual
handling in the workplace.
2.2. State potential injuries and ill health that
may occur from incorrect manual handling.
2.3. State the employee’s responsibilities under
current legislation and official guidance for:
 moving and storing materials
 manual handling
 mechanical lifting.
2.4. State the procedures for safe lifting in
accordance with official guidance.
2.5. State the importance of using site safety
equipment when handling materials and
equipment.
2.6. List aids available to assist manual
handling in the workplace.

2.7. State how to apply safe work practices,
follow procedures and report problems
when carrying out safe manual handling in
the workplace.

3. Know the importance of working safely at
height in the workplace.
3.1. Define the term ‘working at height'.
3.2. State the employee’s responsibilities under
current legislation and official guidance
whilst working at height.
3.3. List hazards/risks associated with the
following:
 dropping tools and debris
 stability of ladders
 overhead cables
 fragile roofs
 scaffolds
 internal voids
 equipment
 the working area
 other people.
3.4. State how hazards/risks associated with
working at height can be controlled.
3.5. State the regulation that controls the use of
suitable equipment for working at height.
4. Know risks to health within a construction
environment.
4.1. List substances hazardous to health under
current regulations.
4.2. List common risks to health within a
construction environment.
4.3. State the types of hazards/risks that may
occur in the workplace linked with use of
drugs and alcohol.
4.4. State the importance of the correct storage
of combustibles and chemicals on site.
4.5. State the importance of personal hygiene
within a construction environment.
4.6. State the potential hazards/risks to the
health of workers exposed to asbestos.
4.7. State types of asbestos waste.
4.8. State types of personal protective
equipment (PPE) used when dealing with
hazardous materials.
5. Know the importance of working around
plant and equipment safely.
5.1. List ways in which moving machinery can
cause injuries.
5.2. State hazards/risks relating to the use of
plant and equipment.
5.3. State the importance of keeping a safe
distance away from plant/machinery and
equipment until clear contact is made with
the operator.
5.4. Outline how method statements can assist
in ensuring the safety of workers where
moving plant is in use.
5.5. State ways to eliminate or control
hazards/risks relating to working around
plant and equipment.
5.6. Identify hazard warning signs and symbols
used around the use of plant and
equipment.

 

 

 

 

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for a CSCS card you need to prove you have the training and qualifications required to carry out your job. Cards cost £30 plus Health, Safety & Environmen traning and certifcation. the t Test is £17.50.

You can apply for a card directly or through your employer, however there are organisations who offer application services. If you are being charged more, check you understand what additional services you will receive from these organisations.

For more information about CSCS, the Occupations covered and how to apply for a card:

Tel: 0344 994 4777
EmailCSCS.team@cskills.org 
Website http://www.cscs.uk.com/

How long will it take to receive a card?

The card is sent to you within 2-3 weeks after we receive your completed application form. Your application is sent via 1st Class Royal Mail Recorded Delivery, so it is with you in 2-3 working days. The application form will arrive with instructions, and it will be partially pre-filled, so it is easier for you to complete the rest. On average it will take up to 3-4 week from the time the card is ordered until the card is delivered.

How can I renew a CSCS card?

To renew the card either contact us or renew your CSCS card online.

 

 

The type of work you do, how experienced you are and your qualifications or membership of professional bodies will determine which type of CSCS card you should apply for. 

To apply for your own CSCS card you need to check which card is the right one for you and the job that you do by using the online cardfinder

Once you have passed the correct test, please call the CSCS Contact Centre on 0344 9944 777. Before you ring please ensure you have:

  • a credit or debit card to pay £30 for the card
  • your current or previous employer’s details including contact name, full address and telephone number
  • checked the requirements for the type of card you are applying for.  For example, you may need to email us copies of your qualifications.  If you do not have this information when you call, it may delay your application.