CSCS labourer card changes announced

Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) has announced major card changes that will impact construction workers in labouring roles.

The initial labourer card will reduce from five years to two years, with workers then able to renew their card for five years by providing evidence that they are employed in a labouring role. 

CSCS said the changes, which will take effect from 1 February 2025, aim to support the Building Safety Act and the drive to improve competence and skills across the industry. 

Garry Mortimer, executive director of operations at CSCS, said: “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 card holder is on a recognised training pathway that supports long-term career progression.”

In addition to the card changes, the validity of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) health, safety and environment test will be extended to three years. 

The test can be used for the initial two-year CSCS card application and the extension will allow it to be used for the renewal process.

CSCS said the adjustments are also designed to address the current oversupply of labourer cards and to ensure only those in labouring roles carry the card.

Mortimer added: “Our data shows that 85% of labourers do not renew their card, and feedback from employers highlights many workers leave the industry long before their labourer cards expire.

“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.”