CSCS
the uk's largest construction smart card scheme

When CSCS decided to switch to a Smart Card, they came to us for our unique and extensive experience of Smart Card technology and our proven track record of delivering Smart Card solutions that work.

For CSCS, the welcome thing about the solution we recommended was it not only met the principle requirement of tackling fake cards but also had a number of other more visionary benefits.

First and foremost amongst these was that, thanks to the high specification Smart Card selected, contractors could be given the opportunity to store data of their own on the CSCS cards, thus cutting back on the proliferation of different cards carried round by construction operatives. Things like tracking tool box talks and site inductions; recording continuing professional development; controlling access to building sites through turnstiles; monitoring time and attendance; ticketing for public transport; enabling chip and pin payments; verifying occupational health restrictions and many more. The first multi-use, multi-organisation scheme of this type.

Other benefits included:

• Utilising Smart Card technology removed the need to ring the CSCS Helpline to verify a card’s authenticity, simplifying card authentication and cutting operating costs
• Information on the card could be updated electronically without having to issue a replacement
• A cardholder’s identity could be verified using an online card reader even if the printing on the card was badly worn, as is often the case where people are working in a harsh outdoor environment

As CSCS’s chosen technology partner, our remit was to conceive, design, develop and implement the move to Smart Cards across the whole of the UK construction industry. As well as being responsible for overall management and ongoing development of the technology, we developed the software underpinning each aspect of the scheme and provide the entire infrastructure for updating cards online. We also provide support for the Smart Card technology for the scheme, as well as managing the development and deployment of third party software applications to cards.

Also, as a CSCS IT Solutions Provider, we develop bespoke systems for organisations wishing to use CSCS Smart Cards for secondary applications such as access control, competency management, and time and attendance. Our Skill-safe solution can also be supplied ready for use with CSCS Smart Cards.

You can view a short video detailing the CSCS scheme here.