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10 CSCS cards

CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme)

cards provide proof that individuals working on
construction sites have the appropriate training yet approximately 500,000 Labourer cards are

and qualifications for the job they do on site. currently in circulation. CSCS data suggests that
By ensuring the workforce are appropriately 85% of cardholders do not renew, highlighting

qualified the card plays its part in improving the scale of oversupply. The revised two-year
standards and safety on UK construction sites. initial term allows CSCS to better monitor active
labourers and prevent the card being used as a
Holding a CSCS card is not a legislative default route to site access.
requirement. It is entirely up to the principal
contractor or client whether workers are required In addition, the CITB Health, Safety and
to hold a card before they are allowed on site. Environment test validity has been extended to
However, most principal contractors and major three years, allowing the same test to be used
house builders require construction workers on for both the initial application and first renewal,

their sites to hold a valid card. reducing cost and administrative burden.

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme Changes have also been made to Red Trainee
(CSCS) has been in place for nearly 30 years, cards, although these do not affect the flooring
creating CSCS cards that provide proof that sector. The card supports individuals completing

individuals working on construction sites have entry-level, college-based qualifications that are
the appropriate training and qualifications for occupation-related but not competence-based.

their role. It has seen many changes in that An initial two-year card can now be followed by a
time moving from a 100% carded policy to three-year renewal where learners progress onto
qualification led policy. an N/SVQ, apprenticeship, or agreed alternative.

In February 2025, CSCS introduced changes to Also in 2025, CSCS launched ‘My CSCS’, a
the Green Labourer and Red Trainee cards to new digital platform designed to simplify how
strengthen workforce competence and support individuals and employers manage CSCS cards.
the Building Safety Act’s focus on safety.
Contractors and installers working on carded My CSCS brings card applications, renewals,

sites should be aware of these updates, which test results and qualification records into a
single online account. Cardholders can view
align with wider discussions on site access.
their card status, track expiry dates and manage

For first-time applicants, the Green Labourer applications more easily, while employers

card is now valid for two years, reduced from and training providers benefit from improved
five. After this period, cardholders can renew visibility of worker competence and compliance

for five years by providing evidence of ongoing in line with the Building Safety Act 2022.

employment in a labouring role. CSCS state this
change is intended to address the oversupply of CSCS state that the platform supports
their wider move towards a more accurate,
Labourer cards and ensure the card is held only transparent and digitally managed card scheme,
by those actively working in labouring roles.
helping to ensure that site access is based
CITB forecasts indicate around 140,000 on current competence rather than historic or
labourers will be required each year by 2028, inactive card holdings.
88 C C CFA Contract Flooring Industry Training Guide 2026 Visit: www.cfa.org.uk Tel: 0115 941 1126
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Contract Flooring Industr