CSCS Proposed Changes: Routes to Competence Consultation

July 23, 2024

The British Drilling Association (BDA) would like its members to know that the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is considering making changes to enhance the accuracy and relevance of its carding system.

This consultation focuses on proposed adjustments to the Labourer, Trainee, and Provisional cards. These changes aim to better reflect the workforce’s composition, ensure ongoing competency, and streamline the path to skilled roles within the construction industry.

Section 2 – Labourer Card Changes
Currently, there are around 500,000 Labourer cards in circulation, a figure that far exceeds the estimated annual need of 130,000 labourers, as per the CITB’s Construction Skills Network Forecast. Notably, 85% of Labourer cardholders do not progress to higher-level cards, often leaving the industry or moving to roles where the card is unnecessary before their card’s five-year expiration.

To address this, CSCS proposes the following:

• Reduce the Labourer card validity to 2 years: This change will help track the actual number of active labourers more accurately and encourage timely progression to skilled roles.
• Post-2-year renewal for genuine labourers: Renewing the card for another five years will require proof of continuous labouring work.
• Health, safety, and environment test validity: For Labourer card renewals, this test will be valid for 3 years before application, unlike the 2-year requirement for other cards, reducing the frequency and cost burden on labourers.

Section 3 – Trainee Card Changes
Many candidates complete Level 2 (or above) non-occupational vocational training for construction trades annually, but do not meet the NVQ 2 occupational competence threshold required for a Skilled Worker card. These candidates are not eligible for the current Trainee card and often resort to applying for a Labourer card.

CSCS proposes:

• Availability to Level 2 non-occupational qualification holders: Making the Trainee card accessible to those with such qualifications.
• Card validity and renewal: The card will be valid for 2 years, renewable for an additional 3 years with proof of enrolment in an N/SVQ or equivalent programme, and it cannot be renewed after that period.
• Qualification statement: The card will specify the holder’s non-occupational competence qualification.

For traditional N/SVQ route holders, the Trainee card will still be valid for 5 years and will not be renewable.

Section 4 – Provisional Card Changes
The Provisional card, intended for probationary employment periods, currently lasts 6 months and is non-renewable. However, employers find the longer-duration Labourer card more cost-effective despite its additional qualification requirements.

To improve this, CSCS proposes:

• Extend Provisional card validity to 12 months: Providing more time for employers to assess workers’ suitability and guide them towards the appropriate occupational qualifications.
• Non-renewable status: Post-assessment, cardholders must enrol in relevant qualifications or apply for a Labourer card if they continue in that role.
• Health, safety, and environment test requirement: Ensuring all cardholders meet basic safety and health standards.

These proposed changes by CSCS are designed to enhance the efficacy and accuracy of the certification process, providing a clearer pathway to competence and career progression in the construction industry.