CSCS Card and Construction Site Access

In January 2024, were were informed by CSCS that archaeologists were removed from the Construction Related Occupations list.

According to CSCS (see CSCS website): All construction workers should hold the relevant CSCS card to access a construction site, but those attending site to perform a non-construction related occupation should not be expected to carry a card.

If you work in a non-construction related role - such as archaeology, you DO NOT need a card.

It is now the responsibility of a construction site manager to induct non-construction related workers and those on short-term work experience before escorting them where appropriate.

CSCS is aware some sites insist everyone must hold a card and continues to work with industry to tackle the issue.

Such practices result in legitimate, non-construction related workers being incorrectly refused entry.

Should your entry to site be incorrectly refused because you do not hold a CSCS card, please direct the site manager here

1. Archaeologists no longer eligible for CSCS cards | Official CSCS Website
2. Download the Build UK Training Standard for further information on site access

It is now clear that nearly a year later and this is becoming an issue. An issue, that can only get worse as more and more cards expire. CIfA made the following statement in January:
CIfA is disappointed that we were not consulted by CSCS before the decision was made. FAME and CIfA continue to believe that inclusion in the scheme is in the interests of archaeology and construction, and CSCS’ current decision will create a health and safety vacuum and cause confusion on construction sites.

This survey is to gauge the impact of this decision - and to look at possible solutions, as it has become clear that most companies are having to find novel workarounds.