Not all occupations require CSCS cards

Published: July 18, 2022

Most people are familiar with the role the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) performs in improving standards and safety on construction sites. However, not everyone realises that people attending site to perform a non-construction related occupation should not be expected to carry a CSCS card.

Following feedback that many flat pack/free-standing furniture installers are being turned away from sites due to not having CSCS cards – CSCS is reminding the industry that cards are intended for those in construction related occupations only.

This guidance is backed by Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) regulations, which dictate that card schemes carrying the CSCS logo must only certify those occupations with nationally recognised construction related qualifications.

Due to the wide range of skills required on construction projects, there are times when a worker arrives on site to perform a non-construction related activity, for example installers of flat pack or free-standing furniture, catering staff, drivers delivering materials, cleaners or security guards.

These individuals are not construction workers and CSCS has stopped issuing cards for these and over 60 other non-construction related occupations.

Alan O’Neile, Head of Communications for CSCS, said: “Rigid enforcement of a 100 per cent carded workforce results in legitimate, non-construction related, workers being refused entry to site as they do not hold a card. This indicates a misunderstanding of the scheme and undermines the construction industry’s desire for a fully qualified (not carded) workforce.

“If a worker is there to carry out a construction related activity then a card should be required as proof of their training and qualifications. If they are there to perform a non-construction related activity it then becomes the responsibility of site managers to induct and escort these people to ensure they remain safe at all times when on site.”

The decision not to issue cards for non-construction related occupations is a significant change for the industry, but also has the potential to raise standards, improve safety and bring about a fully qualified workforce.

For a full list of occupations removed from CSCS click here.