Scaffolding is an extremely in-demand skill and, when customers find a good, dependable scaffolder, they certainly make sure that number is saved!
If you’re looking to train as a scaffolder, or add scaffolding to your existing list of services, then there’s no time like the present!
In this guide, we’ve outlined the key qualifications that you need to become a scaffolder, alongside more general insights into the skills and time that will be required.
What skills do I need to work in scaffolding?
If you are wanting to train as a scaffolder, the skills that you will need to develop during your training are:
- Technical understanding of scaffolding structures, including their assembly and disassembly
- Knowledge of different types of scaffolding systems, and the most effective application for each one
- Comprehensive knowledge of building and construction
- Understanding of all applicable safety regulations
- Strong familiarity with best-practices (to ensure safety and efficiency)
- The ability to think quickly, and come up with solutions on the spot
- A thorough and detail-oriented mindset
- Strong communication skills, as not only will you need to work closely with your team, but you will also have to frequently speak to site stakeholders and other tradespeople. So, communicating clearly and precisely is a key skill
- Basic computer skills (or the ability to use a hand-held device, depending on the company you’re working for)
Other skill requirements which could pose a potential restriction for some candidates are the need to be comfortable when working at heights, and to have a good fitness level (to cope with the labour-intensiveness of the job).
How long does it take to become a scaffolder?
This will depend on your aptitude and the training route you take.
It will take around 18 months to complete a scaffolder intermediate apprenticeship.
Or you could take a college course, such as a Level 1 or 2 Certificate in Construction Operations. These typically take a year to complete. From there, you can get a trainee position with a scaffolding company, and continue working your way up.
Alternatively, you could see if a company will hire you as a trainee scaffolder, and give you training and qualifications while you are on the job.
Once you have completed your training, a scaffolder can earn an annual salary of between £19,000 (as a starting salary) to £40,000 (for an experienced scaffolder).
What qualifications do you need to become a scaffolder?
To become a scaffolder, you will need two key qualifications:
- To receive an CSCS Card
- To have completed a Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) course
What is a CSCS Card?
A Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card is the UK’s leading certification scheme in the construction industry.
A CSCS card is designed to act as formal proof that an individual(s) who has been hired to work on a construction site has attained the right level of training and qualifications.
Although CSCS cards are not a legal requirement for scaffolders (or any construction worker) to hold, it is common that principal contractors and managers for major site projects will require any workers to present a valid CSCS card.
How do I get a CSCS Card?
Scaffolders Labourer (Green) Card
A green card is designed for beginner scaffolders, to prove their knowledge of the basics.
To receive a green card, you will need to complete the following:
- CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS)
- Health, safety and environment test
Trainee Scaffolder (Red) Card
A red card is designed for holders to prove their knowledge of how to assemble and disassemble basic scaffolding structures.
To receive a red card, you will need to complete the following:
- CISRS Scaffolding Part 1
- Health, safety and environment test
Scaffolder (Blue) Card
A blue card is designed for holders to prove their knowledge of different scaffolding structures, and how they can be used on construction sites.
To receive a blue card, you will need to complete the following:
- 6 months of site experience (after passing CISRS Scaffolding Part 1)
- CISRS Scaffolding Part 2
- A site diary NVQ/SVQ level 2 assessment
- A further 6 months of site experience (following the NVQ assessment)
- CISRS Level 2 Skills Assessment
Advanced Scaffolder (Gold) Card
A gold card is designed for more experienced scaffolders, to prove their knowledge of complex scaffolding structures, as well as key administrative tasks.
To receive a gold card, you will need to complete the following:
- Hold a Blue card for 12 months.
- CISRS Advanced Scaffolder course
- A site diary NVQ/SVQ level 3 assessment
- 6 months of site experience (following the NVQ assessment)
- CISRS Level 3 Skills Assessment
At G&R Scaffolding, our team has completed their scaffolding courses through Aspects Total Training.
Aspects Total Training is a leading training course provider, offering a broad range of courses for the construction, industrial and commercial sectors. They deliver courses from reputable, industry-leading UK bodies and schemes – including CISRS, Haki and Cuplok – from their purpose-built training facility in Coventry.
Whether you’d like to find out more about scaffolding courses, or enlist a skilled scaffolding team to support your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
