Hello group!!!, could you please advise me if having the ECS PQP (Professionally Qualified Person) card I can enter a construction site to work as an electrician or electrician assistant?
I went for the CSCS Profesionally Qualified Card a few years ago. Before that I 'only' had a Labourers card. That is all that is required to get on a site.
The PQC card has to undergo a more strict H+S exam. It is far harder than the basic exam, and you will need to revise about it.
I never bothered renewing, as I dont think it was worth the extra, you need to be a Member of the IET, and do the harder exam.
I got to the point of wondering why I'm paying for IET membership, so didnt renew.
Actually, I don't think a PQP card will allow you work as an electrician on site - it should allow you in, but it wouldn't normally allow you work as a spark unless you are qualified to do so.
As an example, I did an electrician apprenticeship, then moved on into a design office role. MY PQP card is actually based on being formerly a CDM - C and degree qualified Building Services Engineer. It doesn't allow me to put sockets on, however - for that I would need an ECS Card - and you won't get one unless you meet the apprenticeship and NVQ criteria
I agree with OMS - it depends on the site policy, and on sites where they check that people are doing what they are qualified (or "badged up") for, you will need the appropriate card(s) for the jobs you are doing.
Actually, I don't think a PQP card will allow you work as an electrician on site - it should allow you in, but it wouldn't normally allow you work as a spark unless you are qualified to do so.
As an example, I did an electrician apprenticeship, then moved on into a design office role. MY PQP card is actually based on being formerly a CDM - C and degree qualified Building Services Engineer. It doesn't allow me to put sockets on, however - for that I would need an ECS Card - and you won't get one unless you meet the apprenticeship and NVQ criteria
Regards
OMS
This ↑↑
CSCS is being pushed as a skills scheme, not just H&S. I haven't been on a decent sized construction project within the last 5 years that didn't insist on task specific cards. and in fact was our company policy as far back as 2008.
Then there's the latest scam scheme which seems to be gaining traction, especially in healthcare....
