Everything You Need To Know About Bricklayer CSCS Card
Table of contents
Introduction
What Is Bricklayer CSCS Card?
What Are The Types Of CSCS Cards?
How To Get A Bricklayer CSCS Card?
Benefits Of Getting A CSCS Card
How Do I Renew the CSCS Card
Bricklayer CSCS Cards Salary And Designated Jobs
How To Prepare For The CITB Test?
FAQs
Final Thoughts
Introduction
Bricklayer CSCS Card seekers, listen up! Just like the ever-changing landscape of all businesses, the construction industry has its own dynamic shifts. However, one thing that remains unchanged is the need for a strategic approach to obtaining the one that suits you the most. Gone are the days of relying on sheer luck and hoping for the best outcome.
Today, it’s crucial to have a well-defined plan in place for every stage of the process, from understanding eligibility requirements to successfully completing the application and launching your promising career in construction.
That’s the reason I’ve come up with this blog that addresses everything you need to know about the Bricklayer CSCS Card. From understanding the different types of CSCS cards available to eligibility requirements, application process, benefits, renewal, salaries, and even tips for preparation – we’ve got you covered
What Is The Bricklayer CSCS Card?
The Bricklayer CSCS card, also known as the Construction Skills Certification Scheme card for bricklayers, is a vital construction industry certification. It demonstrates that a bricklayer has the necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications to perform their job safely and effectively.
Types Of Bricklayer CSCS Cards: Which Card Should I Get?
Depending on your level of qualification and experience, there are several different types of bricklayer CSCS cards. As a bricklayer, it’s critical to select the right card for your skill level and experience. The most common types are as follows:
Green CSCS Card
- The green CSCS card is given to labourers who are just starting their careers as bricklayers or learning skills. To get this card, you must obtain relevant health and safety qualifications.
Eligibility Requirement
Achieve any one of the below qualifications:
RQF Level 1/SCQF Level 4 for industry-relevant health and safety
An SCQF Level 5 REHIS Certificate for industry-relevant health and safety
NOCN/CSkills Awards unit on industry-relevant health and safety
- Pass the CITB Operatives HS&E test
- Apply for a Green CSCS card
Blue CSCS Card
The Blue CSCS card is for skilled workers.
Eligibility Requirement
To get this card, you must have:
- NVQ/SVQ level 2 qualification
- Pass the CITB Operatives or Specialist HS&E test
- Apply for the Blue CSCS card
Gold CSCS Card
Gold CSCS cards are exclusively designed for site supervisors and specialists in this industry. To apply for this card, you must:
Eligibility Requirement
Achieve any of the following qualifications
- NVQ/SVQ Level 3 certification for Occupational Work Supervision
- An NVQ/SVQ Level 4 certificate for a relevant supervisory/technical area
- Pass the relevant level CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test
- Apply for a Gold CSCS card
Black CSCS Card
The Black card is designed for professionals working in managerial roles.
Eligibility Requirement
For a black CSCS card you will need:
- NVQ or SVQ Level 4 in industry management or recognised alternatives such as
SVQ Level 4 in a technical industry-related subject
OR
NVQ or SVQ Level 5,6 or 7 in industry management or a technical industry-related subject - Pass the CITB Manager and Professionals HS&E test
- Apply for a Black CSCS card
White CSCS Card
It is the highest among all CSCS cards. The white card further comes in two types: one for Academically Qualified Persons and the other for Professionally Qualified Persons. You can obtain these cards if you stand fit on the following criteria:
Eligibility Requirement
- Achieve a minimum of NVQ Level 7 qualification
- Pass the CITB Managers and Professionals HS&E Test or an approved alternative.
- Apply for a CSCS White Card
You will also need to provide evidence of current membership at a renowned organisation that is acceptable by CSCS - A membership card
- A receipt of payment for membership
- A membership certificate
- An up-to-date letter or email from the professional body
- An authentic screenshot showing your current membership
CSCS Red Card
The CSCS red card is for trainee bricklayers pursuing a qualification. There are different types of CSCS Red Cards that are available for trainee bricklayers, apprentice bricklayers, those on placement, and others.
How To Get A Bricklayer CSCS Card?
Following are some steps that you need to follow to get this CSCS card:
Step 1: Complete The Relevant Qualification
In general, bricklayers must complete a recognized qualification, such as a bricklaying apprenticeship or a construction-related course. Make sure that your qualifications meet the requirements for the CSCS card level for which you are applying.
Step 2: Pass The CITB Health, Safety, And Environment Exam
The CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test is required for the CSCS card application. This test assesses your understanding of construction industry health and safety practices. The cost of the test is ﾣ22.50.
Step 3: Apply For The CSCS Card
You can apply for the Bricklayer CSCS card once you have the necessary credentials and have passed the Health, Safety, and Environment Test according to the card level. To obtain the application form, go to the CSCS website or call their helpline. Moreover, you have to complete all the information accurately and submit the form along with any necessary supporting documentation, such as identification and qualification documents.
The price of getting a CSCS card is ﾣ36, which is paid to CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme), which is the same for all the CSCS card types.
Step 4: Get Your Issued Card
After successfully completing the application process, your card will be issued to you within three weeks and is valid for 5 years.
Benefits Of Having A Bricklayer CSCS Card
For professionals working in the construction industry including bricklayers, holding a CSCS card has many advantages. The following are some major benefits of having a CSCS card:
Increased Employability
Though it is not a legal requirement, having a CSCS card increases your chances of getting better employment. Employers and companies demand professionals with valid CSCS cards in different job roles in the construction sector. A valid card increases your chances of being hired because it shows that you have the necessary skills and experience to work safely on construction sites.
Demonstrates Competency In Health, Safety, and Environment
Having a CSCS card is proof that you have the latest and in-demand skills in bricklaying. Moreover, it also showcases that the cardholders have a thorough understanding of construction health and safety practices.
Right Of Entry To Construction Sites
Access control measures are strictly enforced on most construction sites. As the CSCS cards serve as proof of identity and qualifications, their holders have easier and faster access to these sites.
Industry Standards And Recognition
The CSCS card is widely recognized and highly regarded within the construction sector. It demonstrates that you comply with all applicable laws and rules.
How Do I Renew My Bricklayer CSCS Card?
Renewing and maintaining your Bricklayer CSCS card is as important as getting one. If you want to take advantage of the benefits of this card, you must renew it and make it valid.
- Update Your Qualification: For any type of CSCS card that you may hold as a Bricklayer, it’s often a requirement to update your qualification depending on the type of card you’re applying for.
- Proof Of Current CSCS Card and Completed Qualification: For card renewal, you must show a previous CSCS card and evidence of completing the qualification course.
- Retake The CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test: You also need to retake the relevant CITB HS&E test in order to renew your Bricklayer CSCS card. By doing this, you can be certain that you’re up to date with the most recent health and safety standards for the construction sector. The CITB Health Safety and Environment test, which is required as part of the renewal process, will cost you about £22.50.
- Fill Out The Application Process: The application process for renewing your card is similar to the initial application. Your CSCS card must be renewed each year, and there is a fee for doing so – that is £36. You can process your application in two ways: Online, postal and In-person renewal process. You also need to submit the required documents with the application form.
Typically, CSCS cards are valid for 5 years. You must pay attention to your expiration date and start the procedure of renewing your card 6 months before the expiry date. Your CSCS card cannot be renewed more than six months before or after the expiration date.
Bricklayer CSCS Cards Salaries And Designated Jobs
Till now you must be aware that Bricklayers can obtain a variety of CSCS cards, each representing a different level of qualification, experience, and job role. The salaries also vary according to different cards and job roles.
Bricklayer CSCS Cards | Job Titles | Salary (Per Year) |
Green Card | Construction Laborer, Site Cleaner, Helper/Assistant | £38,367 |
Blue Card | Any Skilled worker such as Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber | £27,000 – 30,000 |
Golden Card | Construction Supervisor, Site Manager, Foreperson, Contract Manager | £35,000 – 45,000 |
White/Black Card | Managerial roles | £40,000 – 50,000 |
However, the salary also varies by the experience level. In the United Kingdom, the average CSCS card salary is £25,350 per year or £13 per hour. Entry-level salaries begin at £21,938 per year, with most experienced workers earning up to £34,125 per year.
How To Prepare For CITB Health, Safety, Environment Test, And Bricklayer CSCS Card Qualification?
With the below-outlined resources, you can prepare for the Bricklayer CSCS card qualification test easily.
Hurak Training: We provide training courses for Bricklayer CSCS cards that will help you prepare for CITB HS&E Test.
Mock Tests: The other resource that helps you in preparation is practising mock tests. These mock tests replicate the real exam environment and prepare you according to the actual exam format and content.
FAQs
Which CSCS card for bricklayers should I get?
Well, it all depends on you and for which job role you are getting the card. There are five main CSCS card categories for bricklayers to apply for: Green, Blue, Gold, White and Black. The Green card is for laborer and associated job roles, the blue card is for skilled workers and the gold card is for supervisors and related positions. The Black and White are only for bricklaying experts who have advanced to managerial positions.
Are CSCS cards required for bricklayers?
Yes. Without these cards, you cannot work in the construction industry. No matter what position you hold—standard labourer, site supervisor, or skilled worker—you must have a valid CSCS card to work on a construction site.
What are the minimum CSCS card requirements?
You must be at least 16 years old and have passed the CITB health, safety, and environment test. You have completed the relevant training and obtained the required qualification. Furthermore, you have to submit the application with authentic documentation and all dues for the application. If you want to get a quick overview of the Green CSCS card and become more familiar with the requirements, read our blog on the CSCS Laborer card.
What is the highest level CSCS card available for bricklayers?
The CSCS Black card is the highest-ranking CSCS card and it demonstrates the managerial expertise of an individual as a bricklayer.
What exactly is a bricklayer level 2 NVQ?
The level 2 NVQ qualification represents what you have:
- Some experience and knowledge of the area you’re working
- Level 2 vocational awards, IVQ Technician certificate, IVQ Diploma, Level 2 International awards
- GCSE grades A* – C
- Intermediate GNVQ, BTEC first certificate.
Final Thoughts
With so many CSCS cards available, understanding which Bricklayer CSCS Card is right for you might be confusing.
By following the guidelines and insights provided in this blog post, you can navigate the application process, select the appropriate card based on your qualifications and experience, and reap the benefits of holding a CSCS Card in your bricklaying career.
Remember, staying updated on industry standards and continuously honing your skills is essential in this ever-evolving field. Best of luck as you build a successful career as a bricklayer!
Related
- CSCS Card Renewal: All You Need to Know About Renewal Of Your CSCS Card
- CSCS Card Types: Figure Out Which One Is Right For You
- All You Need To Know About A CSCS Card And How To Get One: A Comprehensive Guide
- CSCS Green Labourers Card and How to Apply
- Do’s and Don’ts of Construction Safety
- Health and Safety Risks on Construction Sites
Share this
