Question 1

Do I need the GQA health and safety test?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Green route requires the Level 1 qualification and a separate Operatives health and safety test pass. The GQA Operatives test is included in the full package. A current equivalent CITB Operatives pass may satisfy the card-test requirement, subject to verification.

Question 2

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Learning is self-paced. Learning and practice are self-paced. Official qualification assessments and the separate health and safety test have readiness, booking, device and invigilation requirements. Completion depends on passing the required assessments. GQA processes the qualification award and card request in separate steps; your account shows their status.

Question 3

What if I fail?

Accepted Answer

H&S resits with us are free. GQA health and safety test resits with us are free. Qualification assessments have separate resit rules and waiting periods, shown in your account.

Question 4

Do I have to go anywhere in person?

Accepted Answer

Some checks may need an in-person appointment. Check your assessment equipment and attendance requirements before booking. If your recorded Level 1 English check is referred, we offer a free in-person interview. If you do not take it or do not pass, self-funded bookings receive a full refund automatically. If your employer paid, they receive a replacement place or credit instead of cash.

Question 5

Is this an official qualification?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The GQA Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment is nationally recognised and regulated by Ofqual.

Question 6

What languages is it available in?

Accepted Answer

Learn in your language, test in English. The official GQA tests, including the health and safety test, are taken in English. The course itself is available in English, Romanian, Polish, Lithuanian, Bulgarian, Arabic, Tigrinya, Yoruba, Igbo, Somali and Amharic, with audio in English and subtitles and key terms in your language, so the English safety terms are familiar by test day.

Question 7

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

One payment. One payment covers the Level 1 Health and Safety course, the GQA Level 1 Award, the CSCS GQA Operatives health and safety test and your Green CSCS Q-Card. We request your card from GQA. Health and safety test resits with us are free. The Level 1 certificate-only option does not include the health and safety test or the card.

Question 8

Do I apply for the card myself?

Accepted Answer

No. SkillCertify requests your Green CSCS Q-Card from GQA once your qualification, required H&S pass, checks, information and payment are complete. GQA aims to issue within 7 working days after receiving everything required. GQA issues the card. CSCS prints and posts the physical card. This is not a guaranteed arrival date.

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