What is a CSCS card and how does it affect me?

You may have heard them referred to as ‘black cards’, ‘gold cards’, ‘blue cards’, along with several other colours, but the official name is ‘Industry Accredited (IA) CSCS cards’. These cards provide proof that people can follow health and safety standards on construction sites while also having appropriate training and qualifications.

What’s changing with the CSCS card scheme?
All IA CSCS cards will expire on the 31st December 2024 and will not be renewed automatically. If you do want to renew your card after this point, you will need to demonstrate credentials by acquiring an appropriate National Vocational Qualification (NVQ, or SVQ in Scotland) or other recognised qualifications.

Do I need a CSCS card?
There is no legal requirement for contractors to hold a CSCS card to work in the construction sector. However, just like everyone looking to renew their cards, contractors and other construction professionals will now need to prove their skills and experience through the qualifications previously mentioned. You can either do this independently or by speaking to your employer to cover any costs required.

How do I get a CSCS card?
At CIOB, we offer a range of memberships, such as our chartered membership which allows you to add ‘MCIOB’ after your name and can help you gain the relevant card you need. CIOB's Level 4 Certificate in Construction Site Management is eligible for the Academically Qualified Person (AQP) card and CIOB's Level 4 Diploma in Construction Site Management is currently eligible for the occupation of Construction Site Manager Contracting on the Black Managers card. These cards will demonstrate that you have the knowledge or experience to work on a construction site.

Interested in getting qualified to work safely on-site? Learn more about becoming an MCIOB and our Site Management Diploma today.