Tool spotlight: CSCS Smart Check App

The official CSCS Smart Check app launched in April 2022 as an accessible way for card holders to access and use their cards virtually when working on UK construction sites. The idea behind the app was and is to take industry accredited cards into the digital space, so if a user does not have their physical card with them they can still display it via the app.

The CSCS Smart Check app is free to download and is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Download link: https://www.cscs.uk.com/about/cscs-smart-check/

What does the app do?

The app verifies that an individual’s CSCS card is valid – it does not hold or show any information about their previous working locations or historical information relating to their card or qualifications. Different tools, such as the ECS Check, exist for this purpose.

Those using the app must have an active internet connection at the time of verification.

Which card schemes can be verified on the app?

All 38 schemes that display the CSCS logo.

A full list of these, called the CSCS Alliance, can be found here: https://www.cscs.uk.com/about/cscs-alliance/

CSWIP (the Certification Scheme for Personnel) and LEEA (the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association) will be going live at a later date.

CSCS Card Training Options

CSCS Gold Card (Supervisor)

A CSCS Gold Card is an NVQ level qualification that demonstrates competency and ability to work safely on sites in a supervisory capacity.

Candidates must complete an NVQ in one or more of the following categories to hold the CSCS Gold Card, as well as complete a CSCS Supervisors test every 5 years.

· Level 3 Occupational Work Supervision

· Level 4 Construction Contracting Operations – Buying

· Level 4 Construction Contraction Operations – Planning

· Level 4 General Site Supervisor

· Level 4 Residential Development

· Level 4 Building and Civil Engineering

Courses available: https://www.bookmycourse.co.uk/courses/cscs_gold_card_supervisor_491/

CSCS Black Card (Manager)

A CSCS Black Card is an NVQ level qualification that demonstrates competency and ability to work safely on sites in a managerial capacity.

Candidates must complete an NVQ in one or more of the following categories to hold the CSCS Black Card, as well as complete a CSCS Managers test every 5 years.