The new CSCS Smart Check app , developed by the 38 card schemes which display the CSCS logo (including the JIB-PMES), is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety.
The roll out of the app begins in April 2022 and covers more than 2 million CSCS and partner scheme cards across all 38 CSCS Partner Schemes. The collaborative process represents a blueprint and exemplar for what can be achieved with a shared objective and willingness to raise standards and work together across a complex digital environment.
CSCS Smart Check
CSCS Smart Check is a mobile only application that is able to validate verified cards from all CSCS partner card schemes via API integrations into the various databases.
The application has been designed to recognise both QR codes and NFC (Contactless) card reads, with a back-up option of manual entry available for any cards whose QR code is wearing off or unreadable etc.
Once the application has scanned a verified card it will validate the card details and present back to the person checking their card on site the following key information:
- Cardholder Photo ID
- Cardholder Name
- Cardholder Job Title
- Cardholder Qualifications (where available)
- Card Expiry Date
It is key to note that these details will be the details stored within the scheme database and NOT details read from the card itself. This will ensure that even if a fraudulent card is presented with a valid (copied) QR code, the operative will be able to check the Photo ID from the application against the individual in front of them.
Industry Updates
Industry should be aware of the following key dates and times, during which webinars will be hosted jointly by representatives from CSCS and the Smart Check Delivery Group.
Webinar 1 – Smart Tech Overview and
Demonstration – 10th March 2022 11.00AM
Webinar 2 – Smart Tech Overview and
Demonstration – 17th March 2022 15.00PM
Webinar 3 – Smart Tech Overview and
Demonstration – 23rd March 2022 11.00AM
Webinar 4 – Smart Tech Overview and
Demonstration – 31st March 2022 15.00PM
These webinars are intended to provide industry with an overview of the application, training and support materials, and any key updates which will need to be considered. Attendees can register for their preferred webinars via the links above
Industry Benefits
The benefits of a centralised approach to card validation are clear and exciting for the construction industry as a whole.
Promoting a qualified and competent workforce
CSCS and Partner Schemes have a core role to play in the wider ambition of the industry and Government to promote a better qualified and competent workforce.
Verification of the card holder to allow employers and clients essential visibility whether the person on site is qualified and competent for the role they are undertaking is a key focus on the Competence Steering Group as part of Dame Judith Hackitt’s review into building safety post-Grenfell.
CSCS Smart Check presents a free and simple way for all sites and parts of the built environment, from homeowners to some of the largest infrastructure projects, to check the person in front of them is who they say they are and suitably qualified for the work they are about to do.
Tackling fraud
The new application will help reduce fraudulent activity by ensuring live checks on cardholders and their qualifications are simple to perform and widely available. CSCS SmartCheck will provide a real-time verification of the individual; showing if cards are fraudulent, if they are no longer valid, or have been revoked by the scheme. It will remain the job of the operator to use the information presented to them appropriately (checking photo ID against the cardholder) however, the information available will be easily accessible and highly accurate.
Increasing access efficiency
Sites currently use a variety of methods to validate cards at site entrance due to the diverse range of options developed by individual schemes. These can range from a call to a front desk, to scanning a card on bespoke software / hardware, with a range of other options in-between.
These disparate processes can take up a lot of time for an operator or foreman on site, and by moving to a centralised application which can handle all schemes from a single device we expect to see greater efficiencies in speeding up site access times.
