The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) is the UK’s industry-recognised training and competence scheme for scaffolders and access professionals. It sets the national standard for training, assessment, and certification in scaffolding and related access work.

CISRS is managed by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) on behalf of the wider construction industry, with support from employers, training providers, and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

Yes. CISRS is recognised by many major contractors internationally and operates approved training centres in several countries, including the Middle East and Southeast Asia. However, only UK-issued CISRS cards are valid for work in the UK.

CISRS offers a full training pathway, including:

• Labourer (Scaffolding Labourer Card)
• Trainee Scaffolder (Part 1 & Part 2)
• Scaffolder (NVQ Level 2)
• Advanced Scaffolder (NVQ Level 3)
• Supervisor and Manager/Inspector courses
• System Scaffold Product Training Scheme (SSPTS)
• CPD Refresher Courses

Courses are delivered through a network of CISRS-approved training centres across the UK and overseas. You can find your nearest centre on the CISRS Training Centres page.

Courses are booked directly with an approved centre. Many centres publish course dates online. If not, you can also contact them by phone or email for availability and prices.

All CISRS cards are issued by NOCN Job Cards. You’ll need to:

1. Complete the required training and/or qualification.
2. Pass a valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test within the last 2 years.
3. Submit your application to NOCN Job Cards (either online or by post).

Full details and application forms are available on the CISRS Cards page.

Typically, you will get your card within 30 working days of your application being approved by NOCN Job Cards.

Most CISRS cards are valid for five years. Labourer cards are valid for five years but can't be renewed. Holders must progress to Trainee or Scaffolder status.

Yes. Scaffolder and Advanced cards can be renewed by completing a CISRS CPD course at an approved centre and holding a valid HS&E test.

Yes. A CITB Health, Safety & Environment test (or an accepted equivalent) must be passed within two years before applying for or renewing a CISRS card.

For most scaffolders, the Operatives test is sufficient. Supervisors or Managers should take the Supervisors or Managers & Professionals test.

Yes. To qualify for a Scaffolder or Advanced Scaffolder card, you must hold an appropriate NVQ/SVQ in Accessing Operations and Rigging (Scaffolding).
You can complete this through a CISRS-approved Assessor or training provider.

Not usually. Only UK-recognised NVQs/SVQs are accepted. Overseas qualifications may be considered on a case-by-case basis where a formal equivalence agreement exists.

The SSPTS provides specific training on recognised system scaffolding, such as Layher, HAKI, Cuplok, and Plettac. It’s aimed at qualified scaffolders who need formal training on modular or system-based scaffolding.

No. Upon successful completion of the SSPTS, your CISRS card will display an endorsement for the system(s) you are trained in.

The CISRS CPD course ensures scaffolders stay up to date with current safety legislation, best practice, and technical guidance. It’s a mandatory part of card renewal and reflects the industry’s commitment to continuous professional development.

If your CISRS card has expired by more than six months, you may need to undertake additional training or re-assessment before renewal. Contact a CISRS training centre for guidance.

You can verify a CISRS card online using the NOCN Job Cards Card Checker or the CSCS Smart Check app. Both allow you to confirm cardholder identity, qualifications, and expiry date.

Yes. Employers can contact the CISRS/NASC Training and Education Team for guidance on developing structured training pathways, upskilling plans, or site competence requirements.

For card applications and renewals:
NOCN Job Cards – nocnjobcards.org

For training or scheme queries:
CISRS – cisrs.org.uk
[email protected]
+44 (0)20 7822 7400