The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) has announced significant changes to the Labourer card, reducing its initial validity from five years to two years starting February 1, 2025.
This adjustment aligns with the Building Safety Act’s push for greater workforce competency in construction. Labourers who continue in their roles will be able to renew the card for five years by providing evidence of active employment in a labouring capacity.
Garry Mortimer, Executive Director of Operations at CSCS Cards Limited, explained the rationale behind the changes: “The competence of the construction workforce is at the heart of the Building Safety Act.
These changes better align with the competency expectations of the Act as they will encourage more new entrants to start their career not on the Labourer card, but on one of CSCS’s red cards, which demonstrate to employers that the cardholder is on a recognised training pathway that supports long-term career progression.”
The decision aims to ensure that the Labourer card is held by those genuinely working in labouring roles, addressing concerns about its oversupply.
Current figures reveal approximately 500,000 Labourer cards in circulation, while industry forecasts suggest a need for 140,000 labourers annually by 2028.
To ease the financial burden, the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test required for the initial two-year card will now remain valid for three years, allowing it to be used for card renewal.
Mortimer further highlighted the broader benefits of the new policy: “Our data shows that 85% of Labourers do not renew their card, and feedback from employers highlights many workers leave the industry long before their Labourer cards expire.
By reducing the Labourer card’s initial validity to two years, we can better track the actual number of active Labourers in the sector. The requirement for proof of working in a labouring role upon renewal will ensure the card is no longer used as the default easy option for site access.”
The changes were informed by extensive consultations with over 40 sector bodies, unions, and employers.
CSCS is also encouraging new entrants to consider its red cards, which support apprenticeships and NVQ pathways for career development.
For further details and a full list of FAQs, visit CSCS.uk.com/Labourer.
