CSCS cards: new rules for asbestos operatives
Published: May 26, 2017
The Asbestos Removal Management Institute (ARMI), the standard setting body for Asbestos, has confirmed the qualification requirements for the Asbestos Removal Operative blue Skilled Worker card.
From the 1st June 2017, all new applications for this card will require the achievement of the NVQ level 2 Diploma in Removal of Hazardous Waste (Construction) – Licensed Asbestos.
Existing Asbestos Removal operatives who do not hold this qualification will be able to apply for an Experienced Worker card while they achieve the NVQ. More information on this card can be found here
Cards available for Asbestos Removal Operatives
| Operative | Colour | Duration | Requirements | Renewable |
| Apprentice | Red | 4 years, 6 months | Registration on apprenticeship programme | Non-renewable |
| Trainee | Red | 5 years | Less than 3 years’ experience plus ACAD/ARCA/IATP/UKATA New/Refresher cert | Non-renewable |
| Experienced | Red | 1 year | 3+ years’ experience plus ACAD/ARCA/IATP/UKATA Refresher cert and registration on NVQ Level 2 | Non-renewable |
| Skilled Worker | Blue | 5 years | NVQ L2 | Renewable with ACAD/ARCA/IATP/UKATA Refresher cert and HS&E Test |
This change is in keeping with the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) announcement that industry should only accept card schemes carrying the CSCS logo with no equivalents accepted.
The CLC went further and confirmed card schemes carrying the CSCS logo must only certify those occupations with nationally recognised construction related qualifications. The CLC also confirmed that when it comes to skilled occupations, such as asbestos removal, the minimum standard must be set an NVQ Level 2.
ARMI’s decision to introduce the NVQ Level 2 means all ARMI cards can now display the CSCS logo and should be accepted by the industry as evidence of achieving a nationally recognised qualification.
Gordon Jenkins, CSCS Director of operations said “CSCS has been working with the wider Asbestos sector and ARMI for over two years and this is positive news for the asbestos industry and the people who work in it. It is also another vital step towards meeting the requirements set out by the Construction Leadership Council and takes the construction industry one step closer to a fully qualified workforce.”
For more information on the NVQ Level 2 Diploma:
Go to the ARCA website or call 01283 505 777
Go to the TICA-ACAD website or call 01325 466 704