A Black CSCS card is the highest-level card you can receive, being at a managerial level. In order to receive such a card, you will need a construction-related NVQ at a level 5 or higher. There are a variety of NVQ assessments at both levels 5, 6 and 7 that can be undertaken to reach the stature of having a Black CSCS card.
Although operating with a CSCS card is no legal requirement, when working in the construction industry, you will find that most of the time an employer will insist that you have one. If you are looking for employment in some of the top companies in England then you will be even more likely to require one as they like to make sure their employees hold such a level of competence in the industry, which is nationally recognised.
Management
A Black CSCS card can be applied for once you obtain your level 5, 6 or 7 NVQ, which puts you at a status of management. To pass these assessments you will need the required experience and knowledge that will deem you competent.
A level 6 or 7 NVQ is at the highest level and is equal to having a full Bachelor’s degree (level 6) or even a Master’s degree (level 7). However, a level 5 NVQ is equivalent to a foundation degree or a higher national diploma (HND).
In some cases, you may already be working in a managerial position, without having a Black CSCS card. We definitely recommend trying to obtain one regardless, as it can be beneficial for your career, especially making you more sought after if you do wish to move your career elsewhere. Holding this type of card will make you more approachable to bigger companies, allowing for greater opportunities.
In fact, construction companies need to demonstrate compliance with the CDM, Construction Design & Maintenance Regulations, to ensure that their employees are rightfully skilled and can carry out their tasks in a safe manner. By being a Black CSCS card holder, you, in turn, demonstrate this compliance towards the CDM.
Obtaining a Black CSCS Card
As previously stated, in order to obtain a Black CSCS card, you will need an NVQ at level 6 or 7 (and in some cases level 5). This card does not just require a relevant understanding but is only available to managers and technical occupations, as the Black CSCS card is a managerial-focused accolade.
Your Black CSCS card, along with the other cards, costs £36 via CITB. Additionally, you will always need a valid Health, Safety & Environment Test (HS&E), to ensure you are familiar with the current health and safety regulations on a construction site.
Available NVQ Assessments for a Black CSCS Card
Some NVQ assessments you can take in order to apply for your Black CSCS card are:
- Diploma in Management & Leadership (Level 5)
- Site Managers Construction Contracting Operations General (Level 6)
- Site Managers Building and Civil Engineering (Level 6)
- Site Managers Residential Development (Level 6)
- Site Managers Highways and Maintenance Repair (Level 6)
- Site Managers Demolition (Level 6)
- Occupational Health and Safety Practice (Level 6)
- Diploma in Construction Senior Management (Level 7)
- Diploma in Strategic Health & Safety Leadership & Management (Level 7)