What’s New in CITB Testing and CSCS Cards (2025 Edition)

Staying current with CITB testing and CSCS card requirements is crucial for both workers and employers across the UK construction industry. With 2025 well underway, a wave of significant changes is reshaping how professionals qualify, renew, and validate their credentials on site.

From the rollout of a long-anticipated Welsh-language version of the Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test to impactful adjustments in the CSCS Green Labourer Card scheme, understanding these developments is key to maintaining compliance and enhancing workforce readiness.

This article offers a comprehensive overview of what’s new in the world of CITB tests and CSCS cards in 2025. If you’re preparing for your HS&E test, managing site workforce qualifications, or just keeping an eye on industry standards, this update ensures you stay ahead of the curve.

CITB Testing: Key Updates for 2025

The CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test is a foundational requirement for most site workers, supervisors, and specialists. In 2025, CITB has introduced a number of enhancements to improve inclusivity, reflect legal updates, and elevate overall test quality.

New Welsh-Language Version of the CITB Test

For the first time in CITB’s history, the HS&E test is now available in the Welsh language—a major move that promotes linguistic accessibility and cultural inclusion for Welsh-speaking construction workers. This long-awaited update ensures that safety-critical information is accessible to a broader section of the workforce.

• Applicable to both Operatives and Specialist tests

   

• Available at select testing centres and online with language toggle support

   

• Bookable through the official CITB website

This update reflects the industry’s push to remove barriers to entry and provide a fair opportunity for all workers to demonstrate their knowledge.

Question Bank Revisions: Environmental and Legal Compliance

The 2025 edition of the CITB test brings notable changes to the question bank. Updated to better align with current industry priorities and environmental legislation, new and revised questions now focus on:

• Low-carbon construction techniques

   

• Improved waste management practices

   

• Eco-friendly materials and building efficiency

   

• Updated asbestos handling protocols under new UK guidance

   

These modifications ensure that site workers are tested on up-to-date practices that support legal compliance and sustainability goals. The refresh also introduces scenario-based questions, designed to test real-world application of safety principles rather than rote memorisation.

Enhanced Accessibility and Learning Support

Accessibility is a strong focus for 2025. CITB has enhanced test delivery by:

• Adding screen reader and voice narration support

   

• Introducing simplified versions of questions for individuals with learning difficulties

   

• Allowing extended time accommodations for eligible candidates

   

These changes reflect a commitment to inclusivity and demonstrate how the CITB is evolving with the needs of today’s diverse construction workforce.

CSCS Cards: Major Scheme Changes in 2025

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) continues to align more closely with government-backed frameworks and employer demands. This year, several crucial changes are influencing how workers qualify for cards, particularly the popular Green Labourer Card.

New Green Card Rules (Effective February 2025)

As of February 2025, all new applicants for the Green CSCS Labourer Card must meet stricter qualification standards, following guidance from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). The changes include:

• Compulsory Level 1 Qualification: All applicants must now complete a Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment through an approved training provider.

   

• Recent HS&E Test Result Required: Candidates must pass the CITB Operatives HS&E test within the past two years to qualify.

   

• Stricter Online Learning Standards: Non-proctored, online-only training courses are no longer valid. All qualifications must be verifiable and assessed under controlled conditions.

   

These measures are intended to ensure all workers entering UK construction sites have a robust, independently verified understanding of health and safety.

Transition Considerations and Common Pitfalls

During the transition period, many applicants have encountered delays due to incomplete paperwork or relying on outdated training. To avoid disruptions:

• Verify your course is listed on CITB’s approved training database

   

• Ensure your HS&E test is still valid at the time of card application

   

• Choose learning providers that offer proctored or classroom-based training

   

You can find a full update from FIS here: thefis.org.

Supporting Industry Trends in 2025

The changes to CITB and CSCS aren’t happening in a vacuum. They are shaped by broader industry shifts and priorities that influence the skill demands and qualifications of today’s workforce.

• Net Zero and Sustainability: With the UK construction sector expected to play a vital role in achieving national net zero targets, CITB materials are integrating environmental awareness into core learning outcomes.

   

• Digital Verification Tools: CSCS continues to pilot smartphone-based digital cards with QR-code verification, enabling faster site entry and reduced fraud risk.

   

• Focus on Mental Health: HS&E test content now includes awareness of mental health signs, support pathways, and onsite responsibilities—acknowledging growing awareness around wellbeing in the construction workforce.

   

Pros and Cons of 2025 Changes

Like any major shift, the 2025 updates bring a mix of benefits and considerations for test takers and employers alike.

Pros:

• Wider inclusivity through language and accessibility support

   

• Better-aligned content with industry standards

   

• Stronger assurance of qualification integrity

   

• Support for digital site entry and mobile verification

   

Cons:

• More complex qualification pathways for entry-level workers

   

• Added administrative burden during the transition period

   

• Higher upfront costs for verified qualifications

   

Summary of Key Takeaways

Here are the core updates in a nutshell:

• The CITB HS&E test is now officially available in Welsh, making safety education more accessible.

   

• Environmental and legal compliance topics are now heavily featured in updated test content.

   

• New Green Labourer Card rules, effective February 2025, require formal Level 1 qualifications and valid CITB test results.

   

• The industry is embracing digital, sustainable, and inclusive approaches to workforce certification.

   

Conclusion

As the UK construction industry continues to modernise, so too must the systems that certify and train its workforce. The 2025 updates to CITB testing and CSCS card requirements signal a commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and professional standards that benefit workers and employers alike.

If you’re preparing to take your test or planning team certifications, it’s vital to stay on top of these changes. Don’t let outdated information hold you back. Explore our CITB test booking options today and take the next step with confidence.

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