The CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) has announced changes to its Operative Training Scheme (COTS) and related qualifications, effective from March 1, 2024. Here are the key updates you should be aware of:
Eligibility for CISRS Cards
After completing the COTS course, delegates are now only eligible to apply for a CISRS Labourer card, rather than the previous Trainee Scaffolder card.
Training Progression
The CISRS Labourer card remains valid for five years. The NEW changes will be the duration between completing a COTS course and enrolling in a Part 1 Course which has been shortened from six months to three months. This allows those who have no formal qualifications to advance more quickly into formal training i.e Part 1 training.
Upon completion of your Part 1 course, you will be issued a Trainee Scaffolder card which is valid for 18 months.
These changes will ensure all operatives holding the Trainee card have received industry-recognised training in essential scaffold tasks. This includes erecting and dismantling various scaffold structures such as towers and birdcages. They will also gain knowledge of industry guidelines and best practices, including SG4, SG6, TG20, Risk Assessment and Method Statements.
When you progress on your Part 2 training you have another 18 months to gain relevant experience, complete your NVQ and 1-day skills assessment.
The aim is to facilitate the full utilisation of the training cards’ lifecycle and to track the typical timeframes for trainees to complete the necessary training, experience, and assessments.
What has changed?
This change grants operatives a full three years (two consecutive 18-month cards) to gain enough relevant on-site experience, complete the Part 2 course, achieve S/NVQ2 certification, and pass a skills test. The previous system forced individuals to complete all necessary training and gain experience within the 18-month lifespan of their first Trainee card if they applied for it immediately after the COTS course.
Will the changes to cots training affect me?
Whether the changes to the CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) will affect you depends on several factors:
- Current Status in Training: If you are already enrolled in or have completed parts of the scaffolding training prior to the changes taking effect on March 1, 2024, you will be under the old rules. However, if you are planning to start your training after this date, the new rules will apply.
- Training Goals: The change from being eligible for a Trainee Scaffolder card to a Labourer card after completing a COTS course could affect your progression and the qualifications you obtain early in your training.
- Training Timeline: The reduction in the required duration from six months to three months to hold a Labourer card before moving to Part 1 training could potentially speed up your training progression if you already have some informal experience.
If you are just starting out or are planning to engage in scaffold training soon, these changes will likely apply to you, affecting how quickly you can progress and what certifications you will receive initially. It’s important to consult with your training provider for specific guidance on how these changes might impact your individual situation and career path.
If you want more information, contact our team today. See what scaffolding training courses we have available on our website, and book today!
Call us on 0800 086 2523 or email us with enquiries@aspectstraining.co.uk.