Everything You Need To Know About Bricklayer CSCS Card
Table of contents
Introduction
Types of Bricklayer CSCS Cards: Which Card Should I Get?
How to Get a Bricklayer CSCS Card?
How do I Renew My Bricklayer CSCS Card?
FAQs
Final Thoughts
A CSCS card demonstrates that the cardholder has the necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications to perform their job safely and effectively.
Bricklayers are eligible for all CSCS cards – the card most suitable for you will depend on your qualifications and skill level. If you’re just starting out, go for the CSCS Green Card and work on getting other CSCS cards later.
In this blog, I’ll explain the different types of CSCS cards available for bricklayers.
Types of Bricklayer CSCS Cards: Which Card Should I Get?
Depending on your level of qualification and experience, there are 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 CSCS Green Card is given to labourers who are just starting their careers as bricklayers. To get this card, you must obtain the 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. At Hurak Learning, we help you with reserving your CITB test. Book Now!
- Apply for a Green CSCS Card
Blue CSCS Card
The Blue CSCS Card is for skilled bricklayers.
Eligibility Requirement
To get this card, you must have:
- Construction-related Level 2 NVQ/SVQ or SVQ at SCQF Level 5. Alternatively, completing an apprenticeship sponsored by an employer also qualifies you for this card.
- Pass the Operatives or Specialists CITB HS&E Test
- Apply for the Blue CSCS Card
Gold CSCS Card
Gold CSCS Cards are intended for site supervisors and specialists in this industry. For bricklayers, you must get a CSCS Gold Card (Skilled Worker). To apply for this card, you must:
Eligibility Requirement
- Achieve any of the following qualifications
- A construction-related NVQ level 3 or SVQ at SCQF level 6.
- Completion of an approved apprenticeship.
- Alternatively, if you have finished an employer-sponsored apprenticeship, you meet the criteria.
- Pass the relevant level CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test
- Apply for a Gold CSCS Card
Black CSCS Card
The CSCS 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 the Black CSCS Card
White CSCS Card
The White CSCS card 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 get these cards if you fit the 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 the CSCS White Card
Required Documents
To apply for a PQP card, you must have proof that you are a member of one of the CSCS-approved professional bodies. To provide proof, you must attach one of the following:
- 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
You could also be a member of professional bodies approved by CSCS.
CSCS Red Card
The CSCS Red Card is specifically designed for trainee bricklayers working towards a more advanced CSCS card while actively pursuing the relevant qualifications. During this qualification pursuit, they are eligible to apply for a CSCS Red Card to fulfil their temporary requirements.
How to Get a Bricklayer CSCS Card?
Below are some steps that you need to follow to get a Bricklayer CSCS card:
Step 1: Complete the Relevant Qualification
In general, bricklayers must complete a recognised qualification, such as a bricklaying apprenticeship or a construction-related course. Ensure that your qualifications meet the requirements for the CSCS card level you’re applying for.
Step 2: Pass the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Exam
To apply for your card, you’ll need to pass the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test. This test assesses your understanding of the construction industry’s health and safety practices. The cost of the CITB test is £22.50.
To revise for the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test, download one of our test prep books or try out a mock exam.
Step 3: Apply for the CSCS Card
After completing the required course and passing your CITB test, you can apply for the bricklayer CSCS card. To apply, visit the CSCS website or call 0344 994 4777 (8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday). If you apply online, complete all the information accurately and submit the form along with any necessary supporting documentation, such as identification and qualification documents.
The fee for a CSCS card is £36, which is paid to CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme), which is the same for all the CSCS card types.
After successfully completing the application process, your card will be issued to you within 3-5 days and is valid for 5 years. When applying over the phone, it may take up to 10 days to receive your CSCS card.
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 to ensure its validity.
- Proof of Current CSCS Card and Completed Qualification: To renew your card, you must show a previous CSCS card and evidence of completing the necessary qualification.
- Retake the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test: You must also retake the relevant CITB HS&E test to renew your bricklayer CSCS card. By doing this, you can be sure that you’re up to date with the most recent health and safety standards for the construction sector.
- Fill Out the Application Process: The application process for renewing your card is similar to the initial application. You can process your application in three ways: online, postal, and In-person. 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 card expiration date and start the procedure of renewing your card 6 months before or after the expiry date.
FAQs
Are CSCS cards required for bricklayers?
While bricklayers working on construction sites are not legally obligated to have CSCS cards, possessing one can significantly enhance your job prospects. In many cases, employers explicitly require candidates to hold a CSCS card for site access.
What are the CSCS card requirements?
You must be at least 16 years old and have passed the CITB health, safety, and environment test. You also must have completed the relevant training and obtained the required qualification. Furthermore, you must submit the application with authentic documentation and pay the card application fee.
What exactly is a bricklayer level 2 NVQ?
A Bricklayer Level 2 NVQ is a qualification required to obtain a Bricklayer CSCS Blue Card. It signifies that the holder has demonstrated the necessary skills and competence in bricklaying for construction work.
Final Thoughts
By following the guidelines and insights provided in this blog post, you can select the appropriate card based on your qualifications and experience, navigate the application process, and reap the benefits of holding a CSCS Card in your bricklaying career.
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 Labourer Card: The Key to Starting Your Career in Construction
- Do’s and Don’ts of Construction Safety
- Health and Safety Risks on Construction Sites
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