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What Is the CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course?

If you’re planning a career in construction or need a CSCS Labourer Card, you’ve probably come across the CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course. This essential training programme is often the first step for anyone entering the construction industry, helping workers understand their responsibilities and stay safe on site.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the course covers, who needs it, how it relates to CSCS cards, and why it’s one of the most important construction health and safety qualifications available.

What is the CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course?

The CITB Health & Safety Awareness (HSA) Course is a one-day training programme designed for people who are new to the construction and civil engineering industries. The course provides a practical introduction to workplace health and safety, helping delegates identify common site hazards and understand how to work safely.

The course forms part of the CITB Site Safety Plus scheme and is recognised throughout the UK construction sector. Successfully completing the course demonstrates that you have a basic understanding of health, safety, welfare and environmental issues on construction sites.

Men sitting round a table in a classroom for CITB health and safety class

Who needs the CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course?

  • This course is ideal for:
  • Labourers entering the construction industry
  • Apprentices starting site-based work
  • Individuals seeking a CSCS Green Labourer Card
  • Workers changing careers into construction
  • Employers looking to improve site safety standards

If you’re about to start working on a construction site, many employers will expect you to have completed this course before your first day.

What does the course cover?

The CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course covers a wide range of topics designed to help delegates recognise risks and contribute to a safer working environment.

Key topics include:

  • Understanding Health and Safety Law
  • Delegates learn the basics of UK health and safety legislation, including the responsibilities of both employers and employees.
  • Risk Assessments and Method Statements
  • You’ll gain an understanding of why risk assessments are important and how they help prevent accidents on site.
  • Common Construction Hazards

The course explores common site dangers, including:

  • Working at height
  • Manual handling
  • Fire risks
  • Site traffic and plant machinery
  • Hazardous substances
  • Occupational health risks

Understanding these hazards can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Reporting unsafe behaviour

Delegates learn how to identify unsafe acts and the correct procedures for reporting concerns before accidents occur.

How long does the course take?

The CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course is completed in just one day, making it one of the quickest ways to gain an essential construction safety qualification. Most providers offer classroom-based and virtual learning options to suit different schedules.

Is there an exam?

Yes. At the end of the course, delegates complete a multiple-choice assessment.
The assessment consists of 25 questions, and candidates must achieve the required pass mark to receive their certificate. Successful delegates receive a CITB Health & Safety Awareness certificate that remains valid for five years.

CITB Health and Safety Awareness multiple choice exam paper on a wooden desk

How does this course help you get a CSCS Green Card?

One of the main reasons people take the Health & Safety Awareness Course is to obtain a CSCS Labourer Green Card.

To apply for a Green Card, you’ll generally need:

  • A valid CITB Health & Safety Awareness certificate.
  • A valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test pass.
  • Any additional requirements specified by CSCS.

Completing the course demonstrates your commitment to safe working practices and can significantly improve your employability within the construction industry.

Many new entrants to construction take the Health & Safety Awareness Course as part of their journey towards obtaining a CSCS card. Understanding the different CSCS card types and application process can help you choose the right route for your career.

Benefits of completing the CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course

Improved site safety

Understanding hazards helps reduce accidents and promotes a safer workplace.

Better employment opportunities

Many construction companies prefer or require workers to hold recognised health and safety qualifications.

Progression within construction

The course provides a strong foundation for further CITB qualifications, including:

Increased confidence

New entrants to construction often feel more confident once they understand site procedures, regulations and best practices.

Why choose TVCTA for CITB Health & Safety Awareness Training?

At TVCTA, we provide accredited CITB training designed to help individuals and businesses meet their health and safety obligations. Our experienced trainers deliver engaging courses that prepare delegates for both the assessment and real-world construction environments.

Whether you’re starting your career in construction or need training for your workforce, our Health & Safety Awareness course can help you gain the knowledge and confidence required to work safely. You can also contact the TVCTA team to discuss your training requirements.

Group in high-vis vests looking don at paper plans

Start Your Construction Career with TVCTA

If you’re looking to obtain a Green Labourer Card or begin a career in construction, the first step is often completing a recognised health and safety qualification.

TVCTA provides a wide range of construction training courses, including the CITB Health & Safety Awareness course, designed to help workers gain the qualifications needed to access construction sites and progress their careers.

Explore all our courses today. Or learn more about the CITB Health & Safety Awareness course.

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