How do CSCS SmartCards work?
In terms of applying for CSCS cards, the types of cards available and the criteria applicants must meet, the Scheme has not changed and information about the holder is still printed on the cards. The difference is that a copy of the same data is also stored in the chip on the card (in a similar way to information stored in the chip on a credit card).
The CSCS SmartCard is a high capacity card that can be used for a multitude of purposes beyond just storing CSCS data. Each additional use of the card will be managed by installing a simple computer program on the card. This potentially allows contractors and clients to access relevant data such as training records, time and attendance reports, occupational health reviews and other information electronically. Subject to certain conditions, any organisation will be able to purchase the right to put an application of its own design on to CSCS SmartCards.
Card Readers
There are two kinds of reader that can be used to access information on CSCS SmartCards. A simple handheld device costing from £113.99+VAT, or the solution that CSCS recommends, a PC or laptop connected reader available for as little as £16.95+VAT.
Card readers may be purchased from a number of suppliers. You can link here to CSCS’ preferred supplier whose readers have been tested to ensure compatabiity with CSCS SmartCard technology.
PC or Laptop Connected Readers
Reading a CSCS SmartCard using a PC or laptop connected reader, displays the cardholder’s details and photograph on the computer screen. As with the handheld reader, this will demonstrate that the card is genuine and will verify the information printed on the card.
The CSCS SmartCard is a dual interface card, which means it can be read using a contact reader (one where the card is inserted into a slot in the reader), or a contactless reader (one where the card is simply placed on the outside surface of the reader). Contactless readers cost slightly more but read cards more quickly.
Only PC/SC accordant SmartCard readers conforming to protocol T=0 (contact interface) or T=CL (contactless interface) will be suitable for reading the CSCS SmartCard.
Before any PC or laptop connected reader can be used, it will be necessary to install special CSCS software onto your PC or laptop and you may also need to load a driver that comes with the reader. The CSCS software is downloadable free of charge here. Alternatively, you will be able to purchase it on a CD-ROM as part of a package with a reader from CSCS’s preferred supplier.
Once the software is running, all that will remain is to plug the reader into a PC or laptop and insert the card.
In the absence of an electronic card reader the card can continue to be used exactly like a traditional printed card.
Handheld Readers
