Scaffolders’ body set to leave CSCS card scheme
Summary
CISRS has announced it will leave the CSCS card scheme from 1 June 2027, citing legal concerns and a need to address how scaffolding work is classified when it falls outside construction. CSCS disputes that there is any breach of the CLC rules and says it was not given the opportunity to agree a transition plan before the announcement.
Why it matters
Surveyors may encounter scaffolding operatives and access arrangements on residential sites, so changes to card recognition and competence schemes could affect site access, contractor compliance and project administration. The dispute also highlights how industry card schemes interpret construction-related work and the potential for wider confusion over competence requirements.
Key points
- CISRS has given notice that it will withdraw from CSCS on 1 June 2027.
- The move is linked to legal advice and concerns about CLC rules on skills cards for non-construction-related occupations.
- CISRS says existing cards remain valid for their full five-year terms and qualifications/training standards will not change.
- CSCS rejects the claim of a breach and says scaffolding is an occupation undertaken within construction.
- A consultation is underway and CISRS may issue new cards from June next year.
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