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The Green CSCS Card: Everything you need to know
- Thomas Worthing
- Jul 26
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
The CSCS card scheme was introduced to ensure that operatives working on site are trained and competent at managing their own share of safety. The green CSCS card is held by labourers, while other trades and roles hold different cards.
In this Article:
What is a Green CSCS Card?
The green CSCS card, officially known as the labourer card under the Construction Skills Certification Scheme. It is an entry level certification for people performing a general labouring role on construction sites. It was introduced to provide basic health and safety awareness, it verifies that holders can work safely without being a risk to themselves or others on site. Unlike the other CSCS cards, it's tailored for non specialist roles. Such as site preparation or material handling and is recognised by major contractors across the industry. This card acts as your passport to large construction sites across the UK. Contractors usually require you to hold a valid card as it helps to reduce accidents and aligning's with industry standards for safer workplaces.
Why is a Green CSCS Card Important?
A green CSCS card is crucial for accessing most UK construction sites. As a rule of thumb, if you are on a commercial site where the client is a company then you would need a CSCS card to work on the site. This is important If you want to work in the construction industry as without a valid CSCS card, the only sites you would be able to work on would be residential projects which are usually small.
Physical Risks
With physical risks being higher in this sector compared to others, holding a card proves to the employers that you have a basic understanding of the risks and safe practices required to work on a construction site. For workers it enhances job prospects, as having access to commercial sites as opposed to only residential projects broadens the potential job opportunities.
What % of UK Sites Require a CSCS Card?
Based on recent statistics 80% of UK sites mandate CSCS certification. One of the reasons the scheme is so widely adopted is that employers benefit from reduced insurance premiums and legal liabilities, making it a beneficial for companies to get their employees certified.
What are the Requirements for a Green CSCS Card?
To qualify for a green CSCS card you must pass the CITB Health Safety and Environment (HS&E) touch screen test and hold a relevant qualification. The most common is a Level 1 health and safety in a construction environment certificate. Other requirements include being over 16, providing proof of identity, and paying the application fee of £36. No past experience is required however a basic level of English literacy is essential for the test. The qualification can usually be achieved through either a 1-2 day in person course or an online version. However the key requirement for the course is that the qualification must be from an approved awarding body and has the accreditation to meet the required CSCS standards.
How to Get a Green CSCS Card Step by Step?
Obtaining a green CSCS card involves three key steps:
Complete a Level 1 Health and Safety course.
Pass the CITB HS&E touchscreen test.
Submit your application online via the CSCS portal.
Start with our online course for flexible study, then book the 45 minute touch screen test at a CITB centre which costs £22.50. Once you have passed, apply with your certificate, test results, photo, and pay the card fee of £36. You can expect your card to arrive within 3-5 weeks, however it may arrive sooner. We advise that you use preparation apps and mock tests to improve your chance of success. If you fail the touch screen test then you will have to pay an additional fee and resit the exam again.
What is the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment Course?
The Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course is a regulated qualification (RQF/SCQF Level 1). It gives the learner foundational knowledge of on site hazards, risk assessments, and safe practices. This is one of the key components that is required for a green CSCS card applications. The course covers topics like manual handling, working at height and emergency procedure. It's delivered online for convenience and uses multiple choice exams to assess the learners understanding of the topics covered. The course duration is 6-8 hours and equips learners with practical skills to help prevent accidents when working on construction sites. Our course at Ward Training includes interactive modules with easy to follow guidance. This allows us to maintain high pass rates and quick progression to getting a green CSCS card.
How Long is a Green CSCS Card Valid For?
A green CSCS card is valid for five years from the issue date and cannot be renewed. Card holders must reapply by retaking the HS&E test and updating qualifications if needed. This is a way of making sure that operatives maintain competence with any changes to regulations and updates to building safety standards. Once your card has expired it is likely that you would not be allowed on site and could risk losing your job. Once you have your green CSCS card you should plan ahead by refreshing skills through short refresher courses and being prepared to resit your HS&E test before expiry.
Is a Green CSCS Card a Legal Requirement on Site?
Holding a card is not a legal requirement under UK law. A green CSCS card is effectively a requirement for entry to most construction sites, as enforced by contractors under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Build UK and major contractors like Balfour Beatty insist on it to meet duty of care obligations. This allows them to mitigate risk of fines up to £20,000 for noncompliance. Though voluntary, the vast majority of contractors require site operatives to hold a CSCS card which makes it indispensable for labourers aiming to secure work in the UK construction industry.
What Jobs Can You Get with a Green CSCS Card?
With a green CSCS card you have the basic level of qualification required to secure entry level roles such as general labourer, site cleaner or gateman on construction projects. It opens pathways to apprenticeships or progression to skilled cards, with average salaries starting at £25,000 annually. The UK construction sector is vast and includes labourer roles for almost every trade. Sectors such as groundworks, bricklaying and civil engineering hire a large amount of labourers due to the physical nature of the work. Get started with our Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course today and transform your construction career.
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