CSCS to end exemption to the CITB HS&E test

In order to attain a CSCS card, most applicants need to have achieved a recognised construction related qualification (usually an SVQ or NVQ). Applicants will also need to have passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test within the last 2 years.

Currently, there is an exemption in place whereby if an applicant has achieved an SVQ or NVQ within the past 2 years they are not required to sit the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.

However, CSCS have recently announced that from 2nd September 2019 this exemption will end. All applicants, regardless of when they passed their NVQ or SVQ, will have to sit and pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test. A card will no longer be issued until the applicant has passed the test.

Gordon Jenkins said: “Accepting the recent completion of an SVQ or NVQ as an exemption to taking the CITB Health, safety and environment test is no longer in step with the wishes of the industry and as such the exemption will be withdrawn.”

Applicants who apply before the 2nd September 2019 will not be effected and will be able use the exemption and will not be need have passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test in order to achieve their CSCS card.

For further information please click here to be taken to CSCS’s website.