CSS Exam Info

What is CSCS in UK?

CSCS stands for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme. It’s a program in the UK that ensures workers in the construction industry have the appropriate training and qualifications for the job they do.

What is CITB?

CITB stands for the Construction Industry Training Board. It’s a public body in the UK that provides support, funding, and training initiatives to the construction industry to improve skills, safety, and productivity.

Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test

The CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) test is like a super important test for construction workers to prove they know how to stay safe on the job. When workers pass this test, it tells their bosses that they can keep themselves and their coworkers safe while working.Having workers who have passed the CITB HS&E test is like having a guarantee that everyone on the construction site will be safe. This test is a big deal because it’s a requirement to get a construction industry scheme card, which is like a special card that shows you’re qualified to work in construction.

Types of HS&E Tests

There are 3 types of HS&E Tests. It costs £22.50 to take the HS&E Test. Click on the title to find more details about the test.

  • Operatives

    Operatives Test

    The Operatives test ensures workers have a minimum level of health, safety and environmental awareness before going on site.

  • Specialists

    Specialists Test

    The Specialists test is designed to assess the health, safety, and environmental knowledge of workers in specific specialist occupations within the construction industry.

  • Managers

    Manager and Professionals Test

    The test has been designed to ensure that managers and professionals have the right health, safety and environmental knowledge to support them in carrying out their role.

Types of CSCS Cards

There are 13 types of CSCS Cards. The application fee to apply for a CSCS card is £36. Click on the title below to get the detailed information of each card.

  • Manager

    Manager

    The Manager card is available for managers and those in technical occupations.

  • Professionally Qualified Person

    Professionally Qualified Person

    This card is for members of the CSCS-approved professional bodies.

  • Gold Skilled Worker

    Gold Skilled Worker

    The CSCS Gold Skilled Worker card is available for skilled workers.

  • Skilled Worker

    Blue Skilled Worker

    The CSCS Gold Skilled Worker card is available for skilled workers.

  • Academically Qualified Person

    Academically Qualified Person

    The Academically Qualified Person card is available to people who have completed certain construction related degrees, HNDs, HNCs, CIOB Certificates and certain NEBOSH diplomas and certificates. 

  • Supervisory

    Supervisory

    The CSCS Supervisor card is available for supervisor and technical occupations.

  • Labourer

    Labourer

    This card is for Labourers. Do not apply for this card if you work in a skilled occupation.

  • Experienced Technical Supervisor or Manager

    Experienced Technical , Supervisor or Manager

    The Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager card is available specifically to Supervisors, Managers and Technical Workers with on-the-job experience (normally at least one year in the last three)

  • Industry Placement

    Industry Placement

    For those undergoing a construction-related qualification or training programme which requires the completion of a minimum 30 day work placement, such as T-Levels or Trainee Skills Development Programmes.

  • Apprentice

    Apprentice

    The CSCS Apprentice card is issued free of charge and is for individuals on recognised apprenticeships.

  • Trainee

    Trainee

    The Trainee card is available to those registered to complete a construction related qualification.

  • Experienced Worker Temporary Card

    Experienced Worker

    It is a Temporary Card and is for workers with on-the-job experience (normally at least one year in the last three).

  • Provisional Temporary Card

    Provisional

    It is a Temporary Card and is for individuals working through probationary periods while employers assess their suitability for employment.

Frequently Asked Question

CSCS Home

  • What is the fail rate for the CSCS exam?

    The fail rate for the CSCS exam can vary, but on average, about 35-40% of candidates do not pass the test on their first attempt. This highlights the importance of thorough preparation and familiarizing yourself with the test format and content. Utilizing practice tests and study materials can significantly improve your chances of passing.  

  • What is a passing score on CSCS Test?

    To pass the CSCS test, you need to correctly answer at least 45 out of 50 questions, which equates to a passing score of 90%.  

  • What types of CSCS tests are available?

    There are several types of CSCS tests, including the Operative Test, Managerial and Professional Test, and Specialist Test, each tailored to different roles within the construction industry.  

  • How long is the CSCS test?

    The CSCS test typically lasts for 45 minutes and consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.  

  • What is CSCS course in UK?

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