Police have arrested four men as part of an investigation into suspected fraudulent activity linked to CSCS test certification. The arrests follow concerns that individuals may have paid to unlawfully obtain the qualifications required to secure Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards.
The investigation was led by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Economic Crime Unit, following a referral from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
Authorities believe the alleged scheme enabled unqualified individuals to gain access to construction sites by bypassing mandatory health and safety assessments. Officers from a regional economic crime unit carried out warrants after concerns were raised about irregularities at a test centre. Those arrested are being investigated for offences including fraud and handling criminal property.
Detective Inspector Jamie Johnson of the Economic Crime Unit said: “Helping people fraudulently pass these tests puts not only the subject themselves, but also those working around them, at serious risk of harm, as they are entering building sites without proper training and understanding of how to carry out work safely.
To be knowingly involved in and profiting off of an operation that could, in the worst case scenario, cause serious injury or even death through malpractice is something that we take incredibly seriously. We are working alongside the Construction Industry Training Board to ensure anyone involved in this criminal activity is brought to justice.”
Industry leaders have warned that fraudulent CSCS cards pose a serious risk to site safety. The CSCS card system exists to ensure workers have the appropriate training and competence to operate safely. Circumventing this process undermines standards and could endanger lives.
How to Avoid CSCS Fraud
For Contractors and Employers:
- Verify every card using the official CSCS Smart Check app or online system.
- Ensure the card type matches the worker’s role and qualification.
- Train site managers to identify suspicious cards and report concerns immediately.
For Workers and Applicants:
- Apply only through official CSCS channels.
- Do not purchase cards via social media or non accredited third-party sellers.
- Complete the required Health, Safety and Environment test legitimately.
Protecting the integrity of CSCS certification safeguards both workforce safety and company reputation.