Look for the logo

Published: April 4, 2019

If you work in a specialist occupation, then you should apply for a card from one of our specialist Partner Card Schemes.

Most people in construction are familiar with Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards. It’s the card that provides proof that individuals working on construction sites have the appropriate training and qualifications for the job they do on site.

However, not everyone is aware that there are over 30 different card schemes displaying the CSCS logo. These are the CSCS Partner Card Schemes and they represent the many specialist occupations in construction such as plant, demolition, plumbing and scaffolding.

Cards from the Partner Card Schemes may have a different design to a CSCS card, but they all display the silver CSCS hologram.

Alan O’Neile, Head of Communications at CSCS said: “Partner card schemes are based on the Construction Leadership Council standards, exactly the same as CSCS – requiring the holder to gain an N/SVQ and pass a Health and Safety Test. Just because a card looks different from a CSCS card, that doesn’t mean it is not valid. If the card displays the CSCS hologram then it is an officially recognised Partner Card Scheme. This means that it is equivalent to a CSCS card and should be accepted when presented on construction sites.”

CSCS do not issue cards for occupations represented by the Partner Card Schemes. If you work in a specialist occupation such as plant, plumbing or electrics, then you must apply to the appropriate Partner Card Scheme for your occupation.

Alan O’Neile continued: “CSCS is reminding the industry to be prepared for cards that don’t look like the familiar CSCS card. These cards are not necessarily invalid.

“What is key is that cards are checked thoroughly, ideally electronically, before allowing workers on site. Checking a card thoroughly is the most effective way for employers to be sure workers are who they say they are and that they have achieved the appropriate qualifications for the job they do on site.”

For further information on CSCS’s Partner Card schemes visit www.cscs.uk.com/partners.