CITB – the Construction Industry Training Board – is hugely important for the construction industry. It has a number of different training systems and exams that ensure those who are involved are all working to the same level, giving peace of mind to those hiring them, and keeping the industry running smoothly and at the top of its game. It does this by offering the following training.

Operatives HSE Test

This seemingly small test is vitally important. It ensures that any operative going to a site has the correct level of health and safety training. It also checks that their environmental awareness is at a high level.

Specialist HSE Test

As a follow on from the above test, the next level is the specialist HSE test. This incorporates the learning from the above, but also includes a specialist area which could be:

• Supervisory (SUP)
• Demolition (DEM)
• Plumbing (JIB) (PLUM)
• Highway works (HIW)
• Working at height (WAH)
• Lifts and escalators (LAEE)
• Tunnelling (TUNN)
• HVACR heating and plumbing services (HAPS)
• HVACR pipefitting and welding (PFW)
• HVACR refrigeration and air conditioning (RAAC)
• HVACE services and facilities maintenance (SAF)
• Ductwork (DUCT)

Managers and Professionals Test

Again, this will take the learning from the operatives test, but will also include specific questions on:

• Construction (design and management)
• Regulations
• Demolition
• Highway works

Benefits of Trained Personnel On Site

Having trained personnel on site is extremely beneficial to the construction industry. It ensures that all sites are up to a good standard and that the construction industry can keep its good reputation.

• Accountability

The right training from CITB means that employers are more accountable for their construction workers. Anyone reporting to the job site should be checked to ensure they have the relevant qualifications.

Plus, a manager can easily check that everyone is up to the same standard and know that their site is safe and that the work will be done as smoothly as possible, on time and on budget.

• Public Safety

Another reason for good training is public safety. Just as important as site safety and personnel safety is keeping the public safe. Training will ensure that workers understand immediately what hazards might affect members of the public and work towards minimising or completely removing the risk.