IOSH Construction Safety Course Receives CSCS Approval

A training course designed by the global Chartered body for safety and health professionals to provide construction workers with the essential knowledge to keep themselves and others safe at work has been approved by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).

CSCS approval means that the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health’s (IOSH) Safety, Health and Environment for Construction Workers course will equip delegates with the knowledge and skills required to be eligible to apply for the Green Labourer card - allowing them to work on construction sites in entry-level positions.

60,000 people die on construction sites every year and there are 475 work-related accidents a minute. Accidents, illness and deaths cost business over £2 trillion annually.

IOSH worked with industry specialists from its Construction Group during the development of the course, along with representatives of major firms relating to the sector and existing training providers.

The course can be delivered in one day and is suitable for any geographical location and any size of organisation to improve safety and health awareness among workers.

Jonathan Nobbs, Head of Corporate Engagement at IOSH, said: “There’s no getting away from the fact that construction is a high-risk sector to work in, when you consider things like the use of machinery, working at height, long hours and outdoor working.

“While a high number of people are killed in construction site accidents, many more are becoming ill because of past exposure to harmful dusts and materials. This is unacceptable. No one should have their safety or health harmed by work.

“It is crucial, therefore, that organisations have strong, robust health, safety and environment practices. Safety, Health and Environment for Construction Workers equips workers with the knowledge and ability to implement policies and procedures designed to save lives.

“The course is also flexible, meaning it can be tailored to suit the needs of an organisation, no matter where in the world they are.”

Safety, Health and Environment for Construction Workers is also approved by BUILD UK and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).