PASMA Joins CSCS Partner Card Scheme

PASMA, the access towers trade body, and CSCS, the construction card scheme, have teamed up to help managers check that anyone working with complex access towers is suitably qualified.

Starting in 2021, Access Tower Specialist cards issued by PASMA will carry the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) logo. It will provide a familiar and reliable way for clients, employers and contractors to verify the qualifications and training of the cardholder.

Highest qualification available

The holographic logo will only appear on cards held by those who achieve the highest qualification available for access towers, having completed a training programme with PASMA. It certifies individuals are competent to erect, dismantle and inspect all types of towers, including bespoke structures designed to suit the needs of a site.

Most access tower specialists work for ‘hire & assembly’ companies, using their skills to build structures where others can work safely at height. Their service covers equipment rental, consultation, specification, design, assembly and dismantling. Working closely with tower manufacturers, they are qualified to:

• Plan the build
• Select safe equipment
• Follow design drawings
• Assemble and dismantle
• Make engineer-approved alterations
• Tie structures into buildings
• Inspect towers
• Collate all paperwork
• Conduct safe handovers

PASMA will continue to issue cards without the CSCS logo to anyone qualified to work with one or more standard configuration towers, such as mobile access towers or cantilever towers. The addition of a CSCS logo means the individual can work with any type of tower and they’re the only people qualified to work with custom-designed towers.

Huge step forward

Peter Bennett OBE, MD of PASMA, said: “The partnership between PASMA and CSCS is a huge step forward for access tower safety on UK construction sites. If someone arrives to assemble a tower, the site manager can easily check they’re qualified just by viewing the details on their PASMA card.

“Anyone holding this card has considerable experience and knowledge of scaffold towers. Gaining industry-wide recognition of their specialist skills and level of qualification was a logical move with a big impact on height safety.”

Graham Wren, CEO of CSCS, added: “This is positive news for the industry. PASMA cards displaying the CSCS logo align with the objectives of the Construction Leadership Council. They are another example of the industry working together to achieve a fully trained and qualified workforce.”

This move makes PASMA the 37th member of the CSCS Partner Card Scheme.