Booking a health and safety test for a CSCS card

Published: February 10, 2025

When applying for the majority of CSCS cards, individuals are required to have completed, or be registered onto, a construction qualification and to have passed the CITB Health, safety and environment test, or an approved alternative.

Contrary to a common misconception, this test is owned and managed exclusively by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), not CSCS.

What is the CITB Health, safety and environment test?

The CITB Health, safety and environment test is sometimes referred to as the CSCS Test, or the CSCS Touchscreen test. However, it is owned and operated by CITB and serves as a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s understanding across various crucial safety topics. It covers areas such as occupational health, safety protocols, high-risk activities, and more.

While it is needed for a CSCS card, CSCS itself does not administer these tests nor provide training for them. For accurate information and to book your CITB HS&E test, it’s best to directly consult CITB’s official channels.

Types of CITB HS&E Tests

There are three primary types of CITB HS&E tests tailored to different roles within the construction sector:

Operatives: Ensures workers have a minimum level of health, safety and environmental awareness before going on site

Specialists: Includes specific questions relevant to specialised roles such as supervisors, demolition experts, and HVACR technicians.

Managers and Professionals (MAP): Covers a broader spectrum including legal responsibilities, occupational health, and high-risk activities.

Each test requires thorough preparation, which can be facilitated through CITB’s official revision materials including books, apps, and digital downloads.

Booking and preparation

Booking your CITB HS&E test is straightforward via CITB’s website or over the phone.

Revision materials are widely available to help candidates familiarise themselves with the test format and content. These resources not only include practice questions but also simulations to enhance time management and subject comprehension.

Cost and Duration

Taking the CITB HS&E test costs £22.50, with the option to purchase vouchers for payment convenience. Each test lasts for 45 minutes and consists of 50 questions, with a pass mark set at 90%.