IOSH is in talks with the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) over its decision to bar online assessments as a route to a CSCS, or green Labourer, card.
CSCS has suspended recognition of the e-learning IOSH Working Safely certificate because it wants all assessments to be face-to-face and invigilated. IOSH’s classroom-based Working Safely course remains as a popular route to the green card, CSCS confirmed. CSCS is currently reviewing all forms of e-learning including, but not solely, IOSH products.
IOSH Training and Skills executive director Richard Orton said: “CSCS have told us that they’ve reviewed their position on e-learning, particularly in regard to methods of assessment. IOSH and CSCS have been strong partners for many years and we clearly respect their desire to ensure construction workers are safe.
“E-learning can be an effective method for giving people the understanding of health and safety they need but CSCS is right, of course, in saying that it’s difficult to invigilate applicants when assessed solely online.
“At the end of the day, both organisations are striving to keep people safe, so I’m sure we can work together to find a way forward.”
In a statement, Gordon Jenkins, Director of Operations at CSCS, said:
“CSCS acknowledges the strength of IOSH’s Working Safely programme, but has taken the decision to suspend the e-learning route due to concerns regarding the quality and security of online assessments as a route to gaining a CSCS card.
“CSCS is not allowing any organisation to offer an e-learning assessment for CSCS Cards, so this decision on IOSH is in line with all Training Providers. “CSCS is committed to working with IOSH to help find a solution to the online assessment issue. But only when the quality and security of the assessment can be guaranteed can CSCS consider accepting it as an approved form of testing.”
