About the CSCS Specialists HS&E Test
The CSCS Specialists Health, Safety and Environment test is a more advanced version of the standard Operatives test. It is designed for workers in specialist construction trades that involve additional hazards not covered in the general Operatives test. If your work involves demolition, highway maintenance, tunnelling, confined space entry, or working with hazardous materials such as lead, you will likely need to pass the Specialists test rather than the standard Operatives test.
Like the Operatives test, the Specialists test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 45 minutes, with a pass mark of 45 out of 50 (90%). The test costs £22.50 and is taken at a Pearson VUE test centre. However, the question content is different — approximately half of the questions cover general health and safety topics (similar to the Operatives test), while the other half cover specialist topics relevant to your particular trade.
Who Needs the Specialists Test?
The Specialists test is required for workers in the following trades and specialisms:
- Demolition workers — anyone involved in the systematic dismantling or destruction of buildings and structures
- Highway workers — those working on road construction, maintenance and repair, including temporary traffic management
- Tunnelling operatives — workers involved in tunnel construction and underground operations
- Confined space workers — those who regularly enter and work in confined spaces such as tanks, sewers, pits and enclosed chambers
- Workers exposed to lead — those involved in lead roofing, lead paint removal, or other work involving significant lead exposure
- Plumbing and heating specialists — certain plumbing and heating roles require the Specialists test
- Other specialist trades — including steeplejacks, lightning conductor engineers, and some plant operatives
Key Differences from the Operatives Test
While the test format is identical (50 questions, 45 minutes, 90% pass mark), the content differs significantly. The Specialists test includes questions on topics such as:
- Demolition method statements and the BS 6187 Code of Practice for demolition
- Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual for highway works signing and guarding
- Atmospheric monitoring including oxygen levels, LEL, and toxic gas detection
- Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 and permit-to-work systems
- Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 including blood lead monitoring
- Pre-demolition structural surveys and asbestos management
- Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) and shotcrete application
- Rescue procedures including non-entry rescue from confined spaces
If you are preparing for the Specialists test, you should first ensure you have a solid foundation in general health and safety topics. Complete our Operatives practice test first, then use this Specialists test to practise the additional specialist content.
Specialist Card Types
Passing the Specialists HS&E test allows you to apply for a CSCS card appropriate to your trade and qualifications. The card colour depends on your NVQ level and the specific occupation. Workers in specialist trades typically hold a Blue Skilled Worker card (with NVQ Level 2) or a Gold Advanced Craft/Supervisory card (with NVQ Level 3). For more information about all card types, visit our CSCS card guide.
Make sure you book the correct version of the HS&E test. If you book and pass the Operatives test when you need the Specialists test, you will not be able to apply for a specialist CSCS card. Check with your employer or CITB if you are unsure which test you need.