CISRS tightens up training

The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) has tightened up the entry criteria and course requirements for its popular basic Scaffold Inspection Training Scheme (SITS).

Effective immediately, there is now a pre-qualification requirement that the delegate/employer must ensure they can provide evidence of a minimum of two years relevant industry experience prior to attending the basic SITS course.

Aimed at anyone responsible for carrying out statutory scaffold inspections on basic scaffolding structures in accordance with the Working at Height Regulations 2005 – as well as scaffolders wishing to expand their knowledge – the basic SITS course is one of the most intensive courses within the CISRS scheme, which entails three full days at an accredited training centre to complete.

The SITS courses are attended across the UK by site managers, agents, engineers and health and safety professionals alike – covering the fundamental requirements for legal, safe and compliant scaffolding. The courses include practical inspection, theory, report writing, fault finding as well as an update on the latest NASC safety and technical guidance.

CISRS ccheme manager, Dave Mosley said, “Scaffold inspection is such an important area with far-reaching effects and we feel that those attending the course should be able to verify that they have at least a rudimentary knowledge of scaffolding prior to attending training. They also need to be aware of the responsibility that comes with inspecting scaffolds – hence the pre-qualification change to two years relevant work experience.

“In the past, companies would send staff on scaffold inspection courses very early within their career in order to gain some basic knowledge about scaffolding. CISRS feel that in reality a scaffolding awareness/introduction to scaffolding course is more suitable, until they have more of a working knowledge of scaffolding on site.”

As a result of the changes to the Scaffold Inspection Training Scheme, potential delegates will be required submit a CV, employer endorsement and/or proof of prior training at the point of booking a course.

CISRS are considering the possibility of putting together a short duration scaffolding awareness course, for entry level training purposes.