CISRS Construction Operatives Training Course (COTS)

What is the CISRS COTS Course?

The CISRS COTS course is a 1-day program designed for entry-level scaffolding training and for active CISRS workers holding a Labourer’s card who need to renew it. The accredited program provides essential scaffolding safety procedures, working at height techniques, and scaffold assembly methods which meet current CISRS and HSE standards.

The course will enable you to apply for your COTS Labourer’s card, which allows you to begin your career in scaffolding if you're new, or make you eligible to renew your card if you're already working as a labourer.

The course provides comprehensive safety training for construction site operations, serving both entry-level workers and experienced industry professionals.

Who Should Apply for the CISRS COTS Course?

The CISRS COTS course is a training program for individuals who wish to begin their scaffolding careers or need to renew their CISRS card. This course is perfect for:

• People starting in scaffolding who want to get their COTS Labourer card.
• Experienced CISRS scaffolders who need to update their skills and renew their card.
• Construction workers who need to follow CISRS and HSE safety rules.
• Workers who need basic skills for working at heights and building scaffolds.
• People who want certified scaffolding training to begin their career.
• Employers who want their staff to learn about scaffolding safety.
• Construction site personnel who need to obtain scaffolding certification.
• Job seekers who want to improve their chances of getting a job.

What Will Be Covered in the CISRS COTS Course?

This course covers the essential scaffolding skills and knowledge required to work safely on construction sites. The CISRS COTS course provides a structured approach and practical demonstrations to prepare you for a career in scaffolding. Key topics covered include:

• Scaffolding Basics
• Scaffolding
• Scaffolding Equipment and Tools
• Platform Quality Control
• Manual Handling
• Rope and Wheel Lifting Equipment
• Safety Equipment for Personal Protection (PPE)
• Essential Safety Regulations for Employees Working at Elevated Heights
• Electrical Safety
• Fire Prevention and Control
• Working with Noise and Vibration
• Slips, Trips, and Falls Prevention
• Health and Hygiene on Site
• General Welfare and Housekeeping
• Reporting Procedures for Incidents and Accidents

What Are the Benefits of Doing the CISRS COTS Course?

The CISRS COTS course offers key advantages for those looking to advance in scaffolding:

• ✓ Increased Job Opportunities – Gain the skills needed for a variety of scaffolding roles.
• ✓ Enhanced Safety Knowledge – Learn essential safety practices for construction sites.
• ✓ Career Progression – A step towards advanced scaffolding qualifications.
• ✓ Higher Earning Potential – Open doors to better-paying roles in the industry.
• ✓ Industry Recognition – A recognised qualification boosting your employability.

Entry Requirements 

The course has no formal entry requirements. The participants need to understand basic construction work and possess the physical skills necessary to construct scaffolds, work at heights, and operate tools.

Additionally, delegates must provide evidence that they have completed one of the following qualifications within the last 2 years to be eligible for the course:

• CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) test
• CCNSG Safety Passport 
• CCNSG LaTS
• NEBOSH General Certificate
• NEBOSH International Certificate
• CITB SSSTS
• CITB SMSTS
• IOSH Managing Safely / IOSH Working Safely / IOSH Directing Safely

How the CISRS COTS Training is Delivered

The CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) is a 1-day, entry-level course delivered by approved instructors. The training takes place through classroom-based tutorials, discussions, and practical exercises at our dedicated training centres throughout the UK.

The course covers essential health and safety topics, including site responsibilities, PPE, and manual handling, providing a comprehensive understanding of scaffolding safety.

The course lasts for one full day, around 8 hours, and includes both theory and practical training. For added flexibility, we also offer on-site delivery at your company’s premises.

Companies can book employee training programs and receive discounts for bulk bookings. Please contact us at 0333 344 1293 to find out more about pricing and upcoming offers!

How is the CISRS COTS Course Assessed?

Students in the CISRS COTS training program must complete both practical exercises and a 25-question multiple-choice test. The test assesses their understanding of vital subjects, including safety regulations, manual handling, and equipment handling.

To apply for the CISRS Labourer Card, you must successfully complete the test, which takes place after the one-day course. You also need to pass a valid CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) test or an equivalent test taken within the last two years.

Though there are no formal practical tests for this course, you’ll be actively involved in practical exercises during the classroom-based tutorials.

What Certification Will You Receive?

You will become eligible to apply for the appropriate CISRS card after completing the CISRS COTS course. We will submit your card application immediately after we receive your exam results and CITB HS&E Test results, or your accepted exemption documentation.

CISRS COTS Job Opportunities

Upon completion of the CISRS COTS course and obtaining your COTS Labourer card, you will be qualified to work as a scaffolder or construction operative on various projects. This certification opens numerous job opportunities in the scaffolding and construction industry, ensuring you meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.

CISRS certification can lead to roles in:

• ✓ Scaffolding Companies: Building and maintaining scaffolds on construction sites.
• ✓ Construction Sites: Ensuring safe work at height and scaffolding assembly.
• ✓ Scaffold Supervisors: Overseeing scaffolding projects and ensuring safety compliance.
• ✓ Safety Officers: Ensuring scaffolding and construction site safety standards are met.

How Much Can I Earn with this Qualification?

The CISRS COTS qualification leads to entry-level scaffolding positions in the UK, which pay between £20,000 and £30,000 annual salary. Your salary will increase to £40,000 or more when you reach advanced positions, such as scaffolding supervisor or scaffold designer, after you gain work experience.

How Can I Progress After Completing this Qualification?

After completing the CISRS COTS course, you can continue your training through the CISRS Scaffolding Course Part 1: Tube and Fitting and CISRS Scaffolding Course Part 2: Tube and Fitting. The courses will equip you with advanced skills for working in specialised scaffolding positions.

From there, you can move on to advanced scaffolding training courses, which will enable you to pursue roles such as scaffolding supervisor and advanced scaffold designer.

What is the Price of the COTS Course?

Your training costs depend on the training provider and training location you select. Pricing remains affordable throughout all the different service locations. For detailed pricing information, contact us at this number: 0333 344 1293.

Why Book With Hurak?

Booking your CISRS COTS course through Hurak means you get access to top-quality training with trusted benefits:

• ✓ Over 100,000 learners trained nationwide
• ✓ Accredited CISRS courses delivered by qualified instructors
• ✓ Simple online booking with instant confirmation
• ✓ Cost-effective options for both individuals and groups
• ✓ Certificates recognised across all UK industries