CSCS - Construction Skills Certification Scheme

CSCS's primary objective is to provide evidence that individuals working on construction sites have the required training and qualifications for the type of work they carry out.

The CRO card was introduced in 2005 and was intended for those occupations for which there were no nationally recognised qualifications. These CRO cards have covered more than 400 occupations since first introduced.

In July 2014 the green ‘Labourer’ card was introduced, but since then the number of CRO card applicants, has risen. This is due to the fact that no qualifications were required for the CRO card, and the only requirement was that applicants needed to pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.

Therefore the industry has deemed that the CRO card is no longer fit for purpose, and new measures have now been put in to place. CSCS stopped issuing CRO cards in 31 March 2017. All CRO cards issued before 1st October 2015, which expire after 30th September, will remain valid until their expiry date.

Finding the right card for you

CSCS are aware that there are numerous construction jobs without nationally recognised qualifications and, where possible, are looking to develop qualifications for these occupations.

To ensure you apply for the correct card you should use the card finder tool on the CSCS website.

The card finding tool will show you which qualifications are accepted together with the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, which needs to be completed, and which CSCS card to apply for.

The introduction of these new measures is a practical approach to industry's desire for a fully qualified workforce, whilst improving standards and safety on UK construction sites.