CITB Health, safety and environment test: revision materials and apps

Published: April 17, 2025

As well as a construction qualification, or registration to achieve one, preparing for, and passing, the appropriate level of CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test is a crucial step towards obtaining a CSCS card.

Despite being commonly known as the ‘CSCS test’ – the test is owned and administered by CITB, a completely separate organisation to CSCS. Booking the test as well as downloading any learning materials or revision apps should be done and purchased directly via the CITB website.

What is the CITB HS&E test?

The CITB HS&E test assesses your knowledge of health, safety, and environmental issues within the construction industry. It covers a wide range of topics including legal responsibilities, hazards and risks, and best practices to ensure a safe working environment.

Alongside a recognised construction qualification, completion of the HS&E test – or an approved alternative – is needed to gain a CSCS card.

Applicants must pass the appropriate level of HS&E test within the two years prior to applying for their card.

Revision materials for the CITB HS&E test

There are various resources available via CITB to aid in your preparation for the HS&E test. These include:

• Printed booklets: Available for purchase at bookshops, printed booklets offer comprehensive coverage of the test topics. They provide in-depth explanations and practice questions to help you familiarise yourself with the format and content of the test.
• Smartphone apps: For those who prefer to study on the go, CITB offers smartphone apps designed specifically for HS&E test revision. These apps are convenient tools that allow you to revise anytime and anywhere, making efficient use of your study time.

Effective revision strategies

To maximise your chances of passing the HS&E test, CITB recommends several strategies:

1. Training Courses: Consider enrolling in a relevant training course that covers the topics included in the HS&E test. These courses provide structured learning and expert guidance to ensure you understand the material thoroughly.
2. Utilise Revision Materials: Work through all the sample questions provided in the revision materials. This hands-on approach helps reinforce your understanding of key concepts and prepares you for the types of questions you’ll encounter in the actual test.
3. Build Confidence: It’s crucial to be confident with the topics and questions before booking your test. Take the time to review difficult areas and seek clarification on any concepts that are unclear.

Conclusion

Preparing for the CITB HS&E test requires dedication and effective use of the resources available via CITB. Whether you prefer traditional printed booklets or the convenience of smartphone apps, CITB offers a range of revision materials to suit your learning style. By investing time in studying and familiarising yourself with the test format, you can significantly increase your chances of success.