How to get a CSCS green card?
GEM Compliance Training
Health and Safety & First Aid Training | CSCS Card Support
In this short article, we will explain everything there is to know about starting off in construction and any industry updates for those who have had a CSCS green card previously and are currently looking at gaining a new one.
Do I need a CSCS card?
If you work or plan to work on a construction site, you will likely have been asked to provide a CSCS card. If you have already had a green labourers card before, to gain a new card you will need to have a Level 1 award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment and a CITB operatives test that has been taken in the last 2 years. Since 2020, CITB no longer accepts applications for Green Cards without the relevant qualification.
Why do I need a CSCS card?
A CSCS card is proof of your suitability to work safely on a construction site. Every year the Health and Safety Executive releases reports on industry-specific statistics. In the 2023/2024 summary, there has been an increase in injuries on construction sites that have led to deaths. Whilst you may find information that possession of CSCS cards is not mandated by law, proof that you are able to stay safe and keep others safe whilst on a construction site, is mandatory. If a construction site does not expect their employees to have CSCS cards, they will have to have other measures in place (usually more strict) that show proof of the provision of the employee's knowledge and skills.
Do I need a CSCS card if I am not carrying out construction work?
No, if you are visiting a site to perform non-construction related work (you can find the full list of exempt occupations here), then you do not require one.
Which CSCS card is right for me?
There are many cards, as well as partnerships with other awarding bodies. The type of card you require will depend on the type of qualification you have and the work you need to carry out. You can use the CITB card checker to check what card you can apply for based on your qualifications, as well as what type of CITB touchscreen test you require.
How do I gain a CSCS Green Labourers Card?
Designed for unskilled workers, the Green Labourers Card allows access to construction sites and is valid for 5 years. To gain a Green Labourers Card, you need to have a Level 1 award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment. There are alternative qualifications, the full list can be found here. Once you have sat and passed the Health and Safety Awareness course, alongside your CITB touchscreen operatives test, you can apply for your card (or we can do it for you).
What is a Health and Safety Awareness L1 course?
On this course you can expect to learn about these topics and more:
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What happens if I fail?
If you attend one of our Health and Safety Awareness courses and fail, you can book one resit free of charge. If you fail your CITB operatives touch screen test, you can rebook the test at any of our CITB testing centres in Bradford, Hull or Mexborough at the standard price of ￡40 (VAT and facility fee included).
Where can I find the CSCS card mock test?
CITB mock tests can be accessed through Google search. This option gives you free mock tests, however, there is a limit of tests available and some of the testing sites can be unsafe for your personal details, so you have to take extra care about which site you use. Alternatively, you can download the CITB ops/spec app from the Play store or App Store for a one-off price of ￡6.99. This is the official CITB application that grants you access to the full list of questions that could come up on the day of your CITB operatives test. Fear not, you will only have to answer 50 questions on the day. The pass mark is 45 out of 50 correct. The results will give you an overview of what type of questions you need to revise if you have failed any.
How to get a CSCS card after passing the test?
Together with your L1 in Health and Safety in Construction and your CITB ID number (it is on top of your test score report) GEM can apply for your card. Alternatively, you can apply for one here.
How do I book on a test?
Find your closest testing centre here. You can make a booking online or contact us for further assistance.
What are the legal requirements to gain a CSCS Green Labourers card?
Is there any financial support?
Yes, there is government support, which you can enquire with Maximus - employability services and your work coaches. Additionally, CITB provides funding for Levy registered companies. Support is available for construction companies to ensure sufficient training and adequate levels of competence are met. We can support you through the registration process (if you are eligible) which means you can get funding towards training. For more information, find out here.