Why should you take a CITB Test?
With over 61,000 non-fatal injuries in 2020, the UK construction industry is constantly looking for effective ways to reduce this figure and make the workplace as safe as possible. As well as specific skills training, health & safety education is just as important for working on-site. This is why a CITB test is essential for aspiring and existing workers to possess as it helps ensure the safety of all workers within construction.
The CITB Health, Safety and Environment test was developed by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) as a way for workers to communicate their knowledge of maintaining health and safety on a construction site. The aim of the test is to analyse knowledge over a range of topics to show that a worker can be safe on-site and not put other workers at risk. For employers, having workers that have passed a CITB test provides proof and confidence that their workforce can operate safely, while being productive on-site.
Who would need a CITB test?
A CITB test is suitable for any candidate who aspires to have a career within construction. In the United Kingdom, this test is compulsory so in order to be fully qualified to work in your specific field, taking a CITB is essential.
Which CITB test should I take?
CITB tests can be divided into three categories: for Operatives, for Specialists and for Managers & Professionals. Most CITB tests entry level applicants take is the operative and specialist variations of the CITB, but trusted affiliate sites, such as Construction Helpline, offer a wide range of CITB tests across all three categories, which includes:
Operative tests:
Specialist tests:
- HS&E Specialist Supervisor Test
- HS&E Working at Height Specialist Test
- HS&E Plumbing or Gas Specialist Test
- HS&E HVACR (Heating and Plumbing) Specialist Test
Manager and Professionals tests:
There is a variety of career paths available for you to choose from where you can learn valuable, specialised skills that will benefit your career journey.
What is the structure of a CITB test?
The CITB test consists of 50 multiple-choice type questions, with behavioural case studies included in all sections, to be answered in a time period of 45 minutes. Over the course of the 45 minutes, the questions will be separated into 5 specific areas:
- Legal and Management
- Health and Welfare
- General Safety
- High Risk Activities
- Environment
Workers are required to get 45/50 in order to pass, with all sections focused on how to behave safely on-site.
What happens if I fail my CITB test?
All CITB tests purchased from Construction Helpline come with a free retake that can be booked 48 hours after your initial test. Therefore, if you fail to pass the test after your first assessment, you will not have to pay for another. It is important to note that the retake option is valid only for 90 days after you have taken the first test from your original booking.
Is a CITB test linked with a CSCS card?
Not only can you improve your health and safety knowledge when working on-site with a CITB test but passing the test can also contribute to qualifying for a CSCS card, providing you have achieved all other relevant qualifications. A CITB test can be taken on its own individually or as part of the industry-approved CSCS green labourer card package, which is a great entry-level option when starting a career in construction.
Summary
Health & Safety is a critical factor that always needs to be considered when building a successful project, which is why CITB tests are so valuable. Other than CITB tests, Construction Helpline offers a number of educational resources and services such as CSCS cards and NVQ courses that will help any aspiring worker to get their career off the ground. For an affordable route into construction, visit Construction Helpline or call 0207 199 9800 today!