CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA)

Laying the Foundations for Safe Construction Practices

What is a Health and Safety Awareness course?

The CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA) course is a one-day training program designed to help those working on construction sites understand the importance of health and safety. This CITB-accredited course provides a practical introduction to health and safety for industry newcomers to ensure they work safely and avoid creating hazards. It is a prerequisite for obtaining a CSCS Labourer Card (Green Card), essential for working on construction sites in the UK.

Course Content

What can I expect from a Health and Safety Awareness course?

Participants in this CITB Health and Safety Awareness Course will learn to:

Understand the importance of their roles and responsibilities in controlling and maintaining a safe construction environment.
Identify how their actions contribute to health and safety in the workplace.
Recognise common hazards and risks in the construction industry and understand how to prevent them.

The training includes interactive sessions and discussions focusing on real-life cases to ensure practical understanding of the concepts.

Can I work on a site after completing the HSA training?

Yes, completing the HSA (Health and Safety Awareness) course equips individuals with fundamental health and safety knowledge essential for anyone working on a construction site. While the HSA is focused on awareness and does not provide extensive training on supervisory or specialised roles, it serves as a critical stepping stone for further professional development and qualification in the field.

1 Day Health and Safety Awareness Course Online

The online version of the CITB Health and Safety Awareness course provides flexibility, allowing participants to complete the essential training remotely. This convenient format is ideal for those who cannot attend in-person sessions, offering the same comprehensive curriculum through digital platforms.

Entry Requirements

Are there any entry requirements for the Health and Safety Awareness course?

The CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA) course is intended for those new to the construction industry or those seeking to gain knowledge about the fundamental aspects of health and safety on site. There are no formal academic prerequisites, but participants should have a basic understanding of English to effectively engage with the training material. The course is also recommended for those aiming to obtain the CSCS Labourer Card, as it meets the training requirement for the card application.

Assessment, Certification & Progression

How is the Health and Safety Awareness course assessed?

The Health and Safety Awareness course utilises a specific method to evaluate the participant's grasp of the foundational health and safety concepts required for working on construction sites. The assessment process is designed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of essential safety practices:

Multiple-Choice Test: At the conclusion of the course, participants must complete a 30-minute multiple-choice test that encompasses key topics discussed during the training. The examination consists of 25 questions, with 20 questions worth one mark each and 5 questions worth two marks each. To pass, delegates must achieve a score of 25 out of 30 marks (approximately 83%).
Examination Protocol: This exam is conducted as a closed book test, ensuring that participants have internalised the health and safety awareness principles necessary for practical application in the workplace. If a participant fails to pass, they have the option to retake the test either on the same day or within a 90-day period, under conditions that prevent the reuse of the same examination paper.

Successfully passing this assessment results in the awarding of the CITB-recognised Health and Safety Awareness certificate, valid for 5 years, which is essential for applying for the CSCS Labourer Card. Participants are encouraged to continue their professional development in construction health and safety to maintain and enhance their qualifications.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the Health and Safety Awareness course, participants receive a CITB-recognised certificate, valid for 5 years. This certification demonstrates that the holder has achieved a fundamental understanding of health and safety practices necessary for working on construction sites, and is a critical requirement for those applying for the CSCS Labourer Card.

Delegates must attend the full day of training as required by the course program to meet the specified learning objectives and qualify for certification. If full attendance is not possible, the delegate must enrol in a new course and complete the entire training again to receive their certificate.

What are the progression opportunities after completing the HSA course?

After completing the HSA course, individuals are well-prepared to embark on more comprehensive training programs, such as the CITB Site Safety Plus suite of courses, which include the Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) and the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS). These courses offer deeper insights and more rigorous training in health and safety management on construction sites.

FAQs

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FAQs

Why is health and safety so important?

Health and safety are paramount in any workplace, especially in industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, where the risk of accidents and injuries can be high. Here are some of the key reasons why health and safety are so crucial:

Prevention of Injuries and Illnesses: The primary goal of health and safety practices is to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. This includes both immediate physical injuries from accidents and long-term health issues caused by exposure to harmful substances or poor ergonomic practices.
Legal Compliance: Employers are legally required to ensure a safe working environment under various laws and regulations. Failure to comply can result in legal action, fines, and damages, impacting the financial stability and reputation of a business.
Employee Wellbeing: A safe workplace enhances employee wellbeing. Workers are more likely to be motivated and satisfied in their jobs when they feel that their health and safety are prioritised. This can lead to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
Economic Benefits: Investing in health and safety can save money in the long run by reducing the costs associated with workplace accidents, such as medical care, legal fees, and compensation. It also helps avoid downtime and disruptions caused by these incidents.
Reputation Management: Companies known for maintaining high health and safety standards are more attractive to potential employees, customers, and investors. Good safety records can enhance a company’s reputation and competitiveness in the market.
Moral Responsibility: Employers have a moral obligation to look after the wellbeing of their employees. Ensuring a safe working environment is a fundamental aspect of ethical business practices.

By focusing on health and safety, organisations not only comply with legal requirements but also contribute to a healthier, more productive, and more ethical society.

Can I do my CITB Health and Safety Test online?

No, the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) test cannot be taken online.

The test must be completed in person at an approved CITB test centre to ensure the integrity and standardisation of the exam. However, you can easily book your test online through the CITB website. Once booked, you’ll need to attend a physical test centre to complete it.

For more details on the test and how to prepare, visit the CITB HS&E Test information page.

Do you need a CSCS card to be a labourer?

Yes, to work as a labourer on most construction sites in the UK, you generally need a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card.

The CSCS Labourer Card, also known as the Green Card, demonstrates that the holder has the necessary training and qualifications in health and safety to work safely on site.

To obtain a CSCS Labourer Card, individuals must complete the CITB Health and Safety Awareness course or its equivalent and pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test. These requirements ensure that all workers have a basic level of understanding about potential hazards on construction sites and how to work safely.

The CSCS card is widely recognised in the UK construction industry and is often a mandatory requirement by employers to ensure compliance with safety standards.