In a significant move to address industry standards, Construction Skills Certification Scheme Cards Limited has unveiled upcoming changes to the Labourer card program, effective February 1st, 2025. These updates aim to enhance the safety, accountability, and professionalism within the construction workforce in line with the Building Safety Act.
Key Changes to Labourer Card Validity
One of the primary changes involves the duration of the initial Labourer card, which will now be valid for two years instead of the current five. This adjustment emphasizes the need for workers to remain actively engaged in their roles and provide proof of employment in labouring positions if they wish to renew for a five-year card. This shift aligns with the goals of the Building Safety Act, which places a legal duty on workers in the construction industry to demonstrate competency in their roles—highlighting the importance of skills, knowledge, experience, and appropriate behaviours.
Garry Mortimer, Executive Director of Operations at CSCS Cards Limited, explained, “The competence of the construction workforce is at the heart of the Building Safety Act. These changes better align with the competency expectations of the Act as they will encourage more new entrants to start their career not on the Labourer card, but on one of CSCS’s red cards, which demonstrate to employers that the cardholder is on a recognised training pathway that supports long-term career progression.”
Enhanced Support for Training Pathways with CSCS Red Cards
For new entrants, CSCS offers a range of red cards for workers on recognized training pathways, including apprenticeships and NVQs. This initiative is part of a broader effort to foster long-term career progression by encouraging workers to acquire skills and experience that support their roles and benefit the industry. More details on the red card pathways are available on the CSCS website at CSCS.uk.com/cards.
Updated CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test Validity
To support Labourer cardholders and reduce financial burdens, the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test used for initial Labourer card applications will now be valid for three years, covering the initial application and subsequent renewal. This change reduces testing frequency for those who remain in their roles, easing the renewal process.
Addressing Labourer Card Oversupply and Workforce Needs
With approximately 500,000 Labourer cards currently in circulation, CSCS aims to address an oversupply by ensuring that only those performing genuine labouring duties hold the card. According to the Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) Construction Skills Network Forecast, about 140,000 new labourers will be needed each year by 2028. However, data indicates that 85% of Labourers do not renew their card, and many leave the industry before their cards expire.
Mortimer added, “By reducing the Labourer card’s initial validity to two years, we can better track the actual number of active Labourers in the sector. The requirement for proof of working in a labouring role upon renewal will ensure the card is no longer used as the default easy option for site access.”
Industry Feedback and Consultation
These changes follow extensive consultations with employers, sector representatives, unions, and standard-setting bodies, reflecting CSCS’s commitment to adapting its scheme to meet the industry’s needs. Further announcements on additional adaptations are expected soon.
For a full list of frequently asked questions, please visit the CSCS website at www.cscs.uk.com/Labourer.
To find out about CSCS card courses at ANTA Education head to www.antaeducation.co.uk or call 01952 973200.
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