In UK it has become very common for people to have CSCS certification if they want to visit a construction site regularly or work on one. CSCS stands for construction skills certification scheme. The scheme was launched in 1995 in order to improve the standards of safety on construction sites. Aim of this scheme is to reduce the occurrence of accidents in construction field by having minimum health standards and training in safety. If you possess CSCS certification, it tells employers how qualified you are for carrying out the duties you are assigned safely.
The procedure involved for getting CSCS certification
In order to possess the CSCS card you have to first download the application form offered by administrators of Construction Skills scheme. However before you do this you are required to check a few things. CSCS cards are available in different types. You have to decide the one that you need. Application forms are of three types. You have to see to it that you do not download the wrong form. There is the Operative and Craft Application Form that can be used by those who wish to apply for Construction Related Occupation, Construction Site Operative or Regular Visitor card. Then there’s the professionally qualified individual application form and last but not least is the manager, supplies or technical application form. In order to earn CSCS certification, you must have the appropriate safety and health training to be eligible. You must pass the construction skills safety and health CSCS certification exam in past two years in order to be allowed to apply for CSCS card.
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A little about the CSCS certification exam
You need not be worried about the CSCS certification test as it is not at all difficult. Usually it is an online test. Which test you should take depends on occupation level that you wish to apply for. For instance, if you want to apply as bricklayer, operative test is what you should opt for however if you want to apply as satellite installer, you would be required to pass the test involving work at heights. On the other hand if you wish to give the CSCS exam as supervisor of building site, you have to pass the supervisor exam. In case you already possess the appropriate qualifications, you could apply for CSCS certification immediately by filling CSCS registration.
The different types of CSCS certification cards
CSCS cards are of many different types. You will be allocated one depending on the category that fits you. Here is information on the different CSCS certification cards in a nutshell. Red cards are given to recent or new entrants to construction field. Green cards are given to operatives that carry have the basic construction site skills. Cards that are blue in color are given to those who have achieved SVQ or NVQ level 2. The gold card is given to those who have completed certified indentured apprenticeship with for instance BATJIC, NJCBI, etc. or achieved SVQ or NVQ level 3. Managers are given black card. Achievement of SVQ or NVQ level 4/5 in relevant field is required for availing this card. Grey/White card covers occupations related to construction that are not eligible for the other cards. It shows the occupation of the holder. Assessed competent members of professional bodies approved by the CSCS like RICS, CIOB and ICE are eligible for the yellow/white professionally qualified individual CSCS certification card.