Workforce Training Services Get CSR Approval

Workforce Training Services has recently been approved as an accredited scheme provider for the Construction Skills Register (CSR) at an official launch at its Springfield Road premises.

Workforce's recent accreditation to offer the CSR programme coincides with the Construction Industry Training Board's "Seen Much Talent Today" campaign which is aimed at raising the levels of awareness of the CSR amongst contractors, employers and the wider public, as well as encouraging construction firms to register their employees to these standards.

The Construction Skills Register (CSR) is a registration scheme designed to meet the needs of both clients and contractors and to improve the health and safety standards within the construction industry. When workers are registered on the CSR scheme, employers are assured the workforce on their sites have completed safety training and, where appropriate, have a stated level of competence.

The Republic has a Safe Pass Scheme in place which is compulsory before anyone can work on site; this is currently not the case in Northern Ireland. However, the need to obtain a CSR card has been given added importance following the announcement by Economy Minister Ian Pearson that, with effect from April 2004, it will be a requirements that all contractors working on public sector projects must only use workers whose skills competence and health and safety training is accredited by an independent third party. This shift in government policy is designed to bring Northern Ireland construction workers into line with their colleagues in the Republic and Britain.

Anyone working in the construction industry or related occupations can apply. There are cards for site operatives, plant operatives, craftsmen, apprentices, supervisors and managers. A full list of the cards available can be acquired by contacting the Workforce Training Services.

To obtain a CSR card at any level, the person must undertake health and safety training which focuses on identification of hazards and the avoidance of risks. In addition, an assessment of competency interview may also have to be completed. As a new accredited scheme provider, Workforce Training Services can now offer the full package of training to obtain the CSR card.