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Top reasons to get a CSCS card

The CSCS (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme) card is an assessment-based qualification for anyone who works on a construction site. Our latest blog post covers the reasons it'll help with your employment status and the wellbeing of your colleagues.

The CITB later introduced an updated version of the CSCS labourer card known as the smart card. The newer cards have a chip containing information on test results and work history, which can demonstrate your previous experience and knowledge to an employer, setting you apart from other candidates applying for the same role.


Is it essential I own a CSCS card?

Even though it is not necessary to hold a CSCS card to work on a construction site, we encourage everyone to obtain this card. However, we understand that getting a CSCS card comes at a cost, which could cause apprehension. You'll need to pay an application fee and buy supporting course materials too. To many, this cost would deter anyone from applying; however, here are our top reasons why a CSCS card will benefit your future employment.


1. Helps you and your colleagues to be safe

The main reason for introducing the CSCS card was to improve the health and safety aspects of workers. The CSCS card is an assessment-based qualification that helps workers become more aware of their working environment and follow the necessary health and safety protocols. By being aware of your surroundings, you are not only looking out for your well-being but your colleagues as well. You must remember a construction site is one of the most hazardous working environments.


2. A form of identification

The launch of the smart card includes a chip that contains your work history, current skill set and your qualifications. In essence, the new smart card is a portable CV that you can keep in your pocket, which is always ideal for applying for your next role and demonstrating what experience you have gained.


3. Career progression

Whilst career progression isn't for everyone, holding the CSCS labourer card is the first step to a highly lucrative career in the construction industry. There is clear career progression for those who are willing to work hard and demonstrate their commitment. The CSCS labourer card is the first level qualification. There are further CSCS qualifications that would allow you to go into either supervision or management. You can also obtain a CSCS qualification which focuses on specialising in a particular skill within the construction industry.


4. Multi-use benefits

The CSCS card not only shows employers that you possess the necessary qualifications and knowledge. Many employers have taken advantage of this and have used CSCS cards as access cards to record training and health and safety records and monitor attendance. Employers can save a lot of time and money utilising the multiple functions that the CSCS card presents. And this is another welcoming reason for you to hold a CSCS card.


5. Better job opportunities

Many large corporations and public sector organisations require their construction workers and labourers to hold a CSCS card which means more job opportunities for those who do!


How to Get Your CSCS Labourer Card

Applying for a CSCS card is very easy. All you need to do is complete the Level 1 qualification in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment before applying for a CSCS card. You would need to present your certificate as part of your application. Then, you need to pass the CITB Health and Safety Awareness test, an online multiple-choice exam taken at an approved test centre.


If you're unsure how to apply or require further information, our team of dedicated recruitment consultant are available to support and guide you through your application. Contact us via info@brsjobs.co.uk or call us on 01276 538403.


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