The application process for new SKILLcards moved online earlier this year and the website (www.skillcard.org.uk) has now been further enhanced to accommodate renewals.

More than 60,000 people working in the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration sectors hold the Engineering Services SKILLcard. It provides evidence that they have the required training and qualifications for the type of work they carry out on construction sites.

BESA took the SKILLcard process online following a survey of the sector, which showed that more than 75% of card holders would prefer to apply and renew online.

Engineering Services SKILLcard was the first of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Partner card schemes to go ‘smart’ easing the process of updating the holder’s qualifications and making it simpler and quicker for site managers to check skills and prevent potential fraud.

“The response to our online application service has been really encouraging with users describing it as fast, easy to use and convenient,” said Rachel Davidson, Director of Certification at BESA. “After a rigorous testing process, we are now able to offer renewals online as well, which I hope our users will find equally helpful.”

The CSCS Partner schemes, such as SKILLcard, are playing a crucial role in the government’s 2025 Construction Industry Strategy by helping clients check whether workers have the right qualifications for the job in hand and have suitable health & safety training.

Speeding up and streamlining the application process to keep up with the pace of change across the industry was, therefore, regarded as a priority by BESA.

To access the SKILLcard online application service go to: www.skillcard.org.uk