It is now one of 100 trades covered by CSCS and proves that a cardholder has passed a health and safety test and is competent in skills that are of crucial importance in the construction industry.
Membership of the scheme is effective immediately and there are four routes of entry to installers. NVQ trainees may apply for a red trainee card, while those having achieved NVQ levels 2 or 3 may apply for a blue or gold skilled card. The document holds the name and photograph of the holder together with a CSCS registration number and trade name, which can be used by employers and customers as evidence of competence and an identity card.
The scheme is administered by the Construction Industry Training Board. The industry accreditation route will remain open for two years and once closed, the experienced worker route will open.
Employers and industry clients have long demanded that security systems installers hold the card, in a bid to raise standards of health and safety and levels of construction industry skills.
Tim Geddes, deputy chairman of the BSIA and chairman of the BSIA’s Security Systems Section, said the scheme marked a positive move for the electronics security industry.
CSCS Secretary Bill Jenkins added: “A qualified workforce means a rise in standards, and when standards are raised, safety is increased along with reputation.”
