Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Construction

All About CITB Operatives Test: Topics, Structure, Cost, How To Book

image
Nauman Farooq

August 10, 2023

Read time 09: 00 mins

Table of contents

Introduction
About The HSE Test
About The Operatives HSE Test
Special Assistance For The Test
How To Book The CITB Operatives Test?
FAQs
wrapping-up

Introduction

The CITB operatives test could be daunting at first.

Not just because it’s hard to pass, but due to the fact that you cannot get your CSCS card without passing it.

Just think about it… You have got the required qualification, spent time on test preparation, and are still not sure if you can pass the test and obtain your CSCS card.

So, I thought it would be extremely beneficial for you if I share information about the test including the structure, topics covered, and how to book it.

That way you can follow my guidelines and increase the chances of easily passing your CITB operatives test.

About The Health, Safety, And Environment (HS&E) Test

The CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) test is very popular in the construction industry because it’s one of the key requirements for most CSCS cards and other licences.

The CITB test validates candidates’ knowledge about health & safety practices in the construction industry.

Another reason for its popularity is that it shows employers that workers who have passed this test can work safely on construction sites. And so, it offers an assurance to them that the workforce they are hiring is not a threat to other people working on a site.

If you want to learn more about this test, read the blog Everything You Need to Know About the CITB Test, where you will understand its types, how to apply for it, and tips to pass it.

There are three types of CITB HS&E tests. Let’s explore them in detail below.

Types Of CITB HS&E Tests

The three types of CITB test are as follow:

  • Operatives
  • Specialists
  • Managers and Professionals

Wondering which CITB test you should take? It’s simple. Just use the CSCS card finder and figure out which CSCS card is right for you and which test you need to attempt.

About The Operatives HS&E Test

The CITB HS&E test for operatives is designed to test the abilities and knowledge of workers who perform general construction tasks on a construction site. It includes individuals working as labourers, bricklayers, carpenters, and painters.

Passing the CITB operatives test is proof that you have gained the minimum level of health, safety, and environmental awareness that is required to work on a construction site.

What Are The Topics Covered In CITB Operatives Test?

This type of CITB test covers five core knowledge areas:

  • Working environment
  • Occupational health
  • Safety
  • High risk activities
  • Specialist

Working Environment

This section of the CITB operatives test focuses on different aspects of a working environment in the construction industry. Some key topics in this section include safe access to construction sites, manual handling, site hazards, personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintenance of a clean and organised workplace.

Occupational Health

Being an important aspect of construction work, the occupational health section covers topics such as risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances, noise, and vibrations. Moreover, it evaluates your knowledge of regular health checks and the proper use of control measures to minimize occupational health risks.

Safety

The safety section of this test assesses knowledge related to general safety practices and procedures. The topics covered in this section include identifying and reporting hazards, the importance of proper communication, and understanding emergency procedures.

High-Risk Activities

Construction involves various high-risk activities so this section is very important. It covers topics such as lifting and moving heavy loads, working in confined spaces, excavation and trenching, using machinery and equipment safely, and working with electricity.

Specialist

This section evaluates your knowledge about specific areas of construction work that require specialised knowledge. It focuses on topics such as demolition, scaffolding, working with hazardous materials, scaffolding, and other specialised trades.

Structure Of The CITB Operatives Test

You have 45 minutes to complete the CITB test for operatives, which contains 50 questions.

Passing Marks For The Test
To pass the CITB Operatives Test, you must score 90%, which means at least 45 out of 50 questions must be correct.

Cost Of The Test
The CITB HS&E test for operatives costs £22.50.

Special Assistance For The Test

CITB offers special assistance to help you book the test. If you’re taking the CITB test at a Pearson Professional Centre, you have a variety of access arrangements. You can also book the test instantly during a standard booking process.

Below is the important information you have to provide when contacting Special Assistance to make a request:

  • Mention which CITB test you want to take.
  • Where would you prefer to take your test? Please specify the test centre of your choice.
  • Inform which access arrangement you’re looking for. Please provide details of any specific accommodations you may need.
  • If you have any evidence to support your request for access arrangements, please provide it.

After receiving the request from you, a representative from the Special Assistance team will contact you. It’s advisable to discuss everything clearly with the person and complete your booking

How To Book The CITB Operatives Test?

Booking the CITB operatives test is an easy task and it has a similar process just like any other CITB test. To understand the CITB test booking process in detail, check out our comprehensive blog Everything You Need to Know About the CITB Test.

Below, you can find the booking process briefly.

  • Go to the official CITB website, log in to your account, or create a new one, and provide the required personal details.
  • Choose the relevant CITB test, select your preferred test centre location, and pick a convenient date and time for the test.
  • After reviewing all the details, confirm the reservation and then pay the test fee.
  • Once you have completed the entire process, you will receive a confirmation email.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it easy to pass the CITB test?
It entirely depends on your knowledge and preparation for the test. If you give proper time, study dedicatedly, and practice the content, you can easily pass the test.

How long is the CITB test valid?
When you apply for a CSCS card, it’s a mandatory requirement that you must have passed the CITB test within the last 2 years. So make sure, you must apply for the CSCS card within 2 years of passing the CITB test.

Is the CITB test enough for a CSCS card?
The CITB test is a requirement for obtaining a CSCS card, but additional criteria, such as meeting the necessary qualifications and providing evidence of relevant experience are also required.

Can I do CITB test at home?
Yes, you can take the CITB test from the comfort of your home. The test is conducted online through a laptop or PC. As long as you have a private space where you won’t be disturbed, you can complete the test at home or any other suitable location.

Wrapping Up: The CITB Operatives Test

Whether it’s convenient for you or not, if you’re going to attempt your CITB operatives test you must spare time and prepare for it. Proper preparation is key to passing this test. And for that, you must take help from study materials and training courses.

Understanding the right way to acquire knowledge and prepare for the test could make all the difference.

Now of course there are other elements involved in passing this test like knowing the test pattern, the time required to complete the test, and passing marks. But it mostly depends on your test preparation.