Construction Ready: CSCS, SMSTS & RAMS—Your Site Compliance Checklist

Construction Ready: CSCS, SMSTS & RAMS—Your Site Compliance Checklist

Being site-ready protects people, programmes and your reputation. The fastest way to start on time is to arrive with the right cards, tickets and paperwork, and to understand how RAMS and permits control work on UK construction and infrastructure sites. Use this checklist to remove delays at the gate and keep delivery on track.

Why site readiness matters

Non-compliance is the biggest cause of first-day refusals and programme slippage. Clients expect visible proof—cards, inductions, permits—and a workforce that understands how work is planned and controlled. Good preparation reduces risk, improves productivity and builds trust with the Principal Contractor.

Must-haves before day one

• Right to Work in the UK (bring original documents).
• Valid CSCS card for your role; Professionally Qualified (PQ) or Academically Qualified (AQP) where applicable.
• CITB HS&E test in date (usually 2 years).
• Induction completed or booked (client/principal contractor and site-specific).
• Confirmed start time, access route, parking and point of contact.
• PPE as required by the RAMS (see below).

Role-specific credentials to check

• Supervisors/Managers: SSSTS or SMSTS, First Aid at Work, Temporary Works (awareness or coordinator where needed).
• Plant/MHE: CPCS or NPORS for each category; in-date medical/fitness if required.
• Streetworks/Utilities: NRSWA (SWQR) units relevant to your task.
• Lifting Ops: Appointed Person (AP), Crane Supervisor, Slinger/Signaller (CPCS/NPORS).
• Electrical: ECS/JIB grade, AM2, 18th Edition, HV authorisations and LOTO competence.
• Confined Space: City & Guilds or equivalent (Topman/Entrant/Supervisor) plus rescue arrangements.
• Asbestos: UKATA/BOHS awareness or higher where needed.

RAMS: what you’re signing up to

RAMS = Risk Assessment and Method Statement. They describe hazards, controls and the safe system of work. Read them before you sign; make sure they match the actual task, location and equipment. Key elements to look for:

• Scope and boundaries of the task.
• Competence and headcount required.
• Sequence of operations and hold points.
• Specific controls (exclusion zones, isolation, edge protection, spotters).
• Emergency arrangements and first aid.

Permit-to-Work controls (typical)

• Hot Works.
• Excavation / Breaking Ground (including utilities checks and CAT & Genny).
• Working at Height / MEWP.
• Lifting Operations.
• Confined Space.
• Live Services / Electrical Isolation (LOTO).
• Temporary Works.
  Make sure permits are briefed, signed and displayed where the site requires.

PPE that prevents refusals

• Safety boots (S3/S3L, SRC grip).
• Hard hat EN 397 (and chin strap where specified).
• Hi-vis (Class 2 or 3 as site standard).
• Eye protection EN 166.
• Gloves to the correct cut level for the task.
• Hearing protection where indicated.
• Task-specific: harness with current inspection tag, FR/arc-rated clothing for hot works/HV, respiratory protection fit-tested.

Evidence to carry (physical or digital)

• Photo ID matching your cards.
• CSCS/ECS/CPCS/NPORS and any role-specific cards (with expiry dates).
• Induction certificates or email confirmations.
• Training records (First Aid, Asbestos Awareness, Manual Handling).
• Medicals/fitness where required.
• Proof of right-to-work.
  Store scanned copies on your phone and send to your manager/agency before start to speed up onboarding.

Common first-day blockers

• Expired or wrong CSCS category.
• Induction not completed or booked.
• No photo ID to match cards.
• Missing PPE or the wrong specification (e.g., non-FR clothing for hot works).
• Arriving after the daily briefing/toolbox talk.

Quick pre-start checklist (print or save)

1. Confirm start time, location, access and point of contact.
2. Complete client and site inductions; note reference numbers.
3. Check CSCS/SSSTS/SMSTS/CPCS/NPORS/other tickets are in date.
4. Pack task-appropriate PPE; inspect harnesses and lanyards.
5. Bring original RTW documents and photo ID.
6. Receive RAMS and permit requirements; read before arrival.
7. Attend daily briefing/toolbox talk and sign the register.

For hiring managers and site leads

• Issue RAMS, inductions and permit requirements at offer stage.
• Verify cards and RTW before mobilisation; keep copies on file.
• Schedule sign-on times that align with access and deliveries.
• Run a short Day-1 audit: ID, cards, PPE, briefings completed.

For candidates and contractors

• Put tickets and expiry dates on page one of your CV.
• Keep a wallet or phone folder with all cards and certificates.
• If a card is expiring, book the refresher before you start the role.
• Speak up if the task on site doesn’t match the RAMS you signed.

Final word

Compliance isn’t paperwork for paperwork’s sake—it’s how projects stay safe, productive and on programme. Arrive site-ready with the right cards, inductions, PPE and a clear understanding of RAMS and permits, and you’ll start strong from day one. If you need a quick sense-check before you go to site, ask your FBSL consultant—we’re here to help.