How to obtain the ECS card (no previous experience)

[Domlee]

Hi all,

i'm just looking for a bit of advice/info. I'm coming towards the end of my 2365 level 2 year 2 and I'm wanting to apply to some local firms looking for work but all the vacancies require you to have a ECS card.

I've been on the ECS website but I'm more confused.

I'm under the impression that I can get a Trainee Electrician (stage 1) card if i can get a sponsor to countersign my application and if I take the ECS H&S test? Does this seem right to those who've got one? I've not worked in the construction industry before however, so am I better off applying to the firms first, then sorting out a card?

I've been told the CSCS card is easier to obtain (do the h&s test and there you go), except trainee electricians are required to have the ECS not CSCS to work onsite.

Seems like a vicious circle...

Thanks for any assistance.

 

[telectrix]

the cscs card allows you on site. some firms will insist on ecs card if you're working on electrics. best go for cscs first as thast will get to past the gate.

 

[Domlee]

Thanks for the advice. I will get the CSCS sorted first then.

 

[cotty]

I acquired the CSCS card last year, the card arrived with "provisional" on it with 6 months before expiry date! And a nice letter stating that the card cannot be renewed and I need to apply with a current trade skill,qualification! Contact the JIB and go for the ECS and save some money!

 

[newtothis]

I acquired the CSCS card last year, the card arrived with "provisional" on it with 6 months before expiry date!

They offered me that provisional card - you need the CITB H&S test AND a Site safety plus course which is a full boring day of attendance
It's around £125 for the training and £30 to get a CSCS labourers card LOL
It only lasts for 4 years unless you take a more expensive H&S course at about £400.

 

[markc123]

Copy and pasted from another site, this should make it a little clearer for you...

[h=2]The Card for Electricians[/h]There are several cards used on construction sites, the most commonly known about is the CSCS card which demonstrates your competence to work at industry standards. Almost any job on a construction site will require a valid CSCS card, however as an electrician it is the ECS card you will need as this is the only card that will allow you access to carry out electrical work on site. An ECS card proves your electrical skills and is the only CSCS affiliated card for the electrical industry.
[h=2]The ECS Card Explained[/h]The ECS is known as the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme and is the occupational card scheme for UK Electrotechnical workers. Whether you are a technically qualified manager or a trainee electrician, you will require a valid ECS card which proves your competence to industry standards.
There are currently in excess of 100,000 registered ECS card holders in the UK. It is worth getting an ECS card even if you are not currently working on site. It takes time to apply and around 4 weeks to receive your card and without an ECS card, you will be sent home which could cost you a job opportunity in the future.
[h=2]The difference between a CSCS card and an ECS card[/h]There is often confusion surrounding a CSCS card and an ECS card. If you see an electrical site job advertised that asks for a CSCS card, it is the usually ECS card that you will need. The ECS scheme is affiliated to and recognised by the CSCS as the equivalent competence card. Most job advertisements ask for a CSCS card on any construction related jobs, however a CSCS card on it's own will not allow you to carry out electrical work.
A CSCS card is proof that individuals can work safely on a construction site, however there are a number of other site occupations that require a different type of card. All are of the same standard as the CSCS and are affiliated to it. So there is no difference between a CSCS card and an ECS card in terms of site safety.

 

[bigash]

A lot of jobs up in the North of England are requiring the ECS card.

You can understand that they want this and it makes sense in the long run but for those of us who have a long run left on the cscs card it turns this out to a scam really.

I paid £60 for my cscs card and now have to pay more for the ECS with no rebate from my original cscs, this is due to cscs saying it is a seperate scheme that they have no input to.

Anyway rant over I will have to bite the bullet at some point for the ECS im just trying to string it out as long as I can.