NEW CISRS Scaffolding Progression Route

The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has updated its rules for the CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) and related qualifications, effective from March 1, 2024. The changes aim to streamline training and ensure comprehensive industry preparation.

Under the new rules, after completing a CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS) course, participants can only apply for a CISRS Labourer card, moving away from the previous Trainee Scaffolder card option.

A CISRS Trainee Scaffolders card is now issued only after completing a CISRS Part 1 course, providing industry-recognized training in scaffold tasks. This change allows individuals three years (two 18-month cards) to gain on-site experience, complete the Part 2 course, achieve S/NVQ2 certification, and pass a skills test.

One notable change is the time required between undertaking a COTS course and a Part 1 Course. The time required to hold a Labourer card before attending the Part 1 course has been reduced from 6 months to 3 months. CISRS notes this is as a minimum requirement, accommodating those with prior informal experience, and the Labourer’s card is valid for 5 years, which still provides sufficient time for candidates to progress through initial CISRS training stages

CISRS emphases that they will be monitoring industry feedback to ensure the continued relevance and achievability of the Part 1 content. The goal is for individuals to maximize the life cycle of both trainee cards, and CISRS will also track typical timescales for completing required training, experience, and assessment.

Speaking about the CISRS changes, Dave Randles, SIMIAN Operations Director commented:

“We believe that these adjustments will be well-received in the industry, ultimately leading to a more streamlined progression route and producing skilled scaffolders for the industry efficiently. We remain committed to ensuring that individuals receive top level training and knowledge for their roles in the industry. We eagerly anticipate the impact the new CISRS route changes will have on the scaffolding industry. “