The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) has announced significant changes to the labourer card, set to take effect from February 1st, 2025. These changes are aimed at ensuring that only those genuinely engaged in labouring roles hold the card, aligning with the evolving standards of the construction industry.
Key Changes:
1. Reduced Initial Validity: From February, first-time applicants for labourer cards will see the initial card’s validity reduced from five years to two years. This change is designed to ensure that new entrants are genuinely committed to their roles.
2. Renewal Process: After the initial two-year period, labourer cardholders can renew their cards for five years by providing evidence of employment in a labouring role. This step reinforces the importance of ongoing employment in the industry.
3. Extended Test Validity: The accompanying CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, required for the initial two-year card application, will have its validity extended to three years. This extension allows the test to be used for card renewal, simplifying the process for applicants.
4. Existing Cards: Labourer cards issued or renewed before February 2025 will remain valid for the full five-year term. However, upon renewal, applicants will need to provide evidence of their employment in a labouring role.
5. Support for Building Safety Act: These changes support the direction of travel emerging from the Building Safety Act, which mandates that all construction industry workers must be competent in their roles. This includes having the appropriate skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours.
6. Addressing Oversupply: The adjustments aim to ensure that only those performing genuine labouring duties carry the card, addressing its current oversupply and enhancing the integrity of the certification process.
For New Entrants CSCS offers a range of red cards for those on recognised training pathways, such as apprenticeships and NVQs, providing a clear route into the industry for new workers. These changes mark a significant step in ensuring that the construction industry maintains high standards of competence and safety, reflecting the ongoing commitment to improving the sector’s practices and workforce quality.
