Role of the Construction Industry Training Board

Understanding the Role of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) plays a crucial role in the construction sector, focusing on improving the skills and training of the workforce. Established in 1964, CITB operates as a statutory body in the UK, mandated to ensure that the construction industry has a skilled, competent, and efficient workforce. In this blog, Dr Richard Dune delves into the significance of CITB, its key functions, and best practices for implementing relevant legislation and regulations. We will also highlight how ComplyPlus™ can assist in meeting compliance requirements.

Key facts and statistics

The construction industry is a major contributor to the UK economy, employing over 2.3 million people and generating more than £110 billion annually. However, the industry faces significant skills shortages, with an estimated need for over 168,500 new workers by 2023 to meet demand (CITB, 2021). This underscores the importance of CITB's role in providing training and development to bridge this skills gap.

Key definitions

CITB - The Construction Industry Training Board is a statutory body that supports the construction sector by providing training, apprenticeships, and funding to improve workforce skills.
Levy-grant system - A system where construction employers pay a levy to CITB, which is then redistributed as grants to support training and apprenticeships within the industry.
Health and safety regulations - A set of regulations to ensure safe working conditions in the construction industry, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

The role of CITB

Skills development - CITB is responsible for developing the skills of the construction workforce. It does this by funding apprenticeships, providing training courses, and offering qualifications that meet industry standards. CITB also works with employers to identify skills gaps and develop targeted training programmes.
Levy and grants - Through the levy-grant system, CITB collects a levy from eligible employers and redistributes it as grants. This funding supports training initiatives, helping employers invest in their workforce without bearing the full financial burden.
Health and safety training - Ensuring health and safety on construction sites is paramount. CITB provides a range of health and safety training courses, including the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) and the Site Supervisors’ Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS). These courses are designed to enhance safety standards and reduce workplace accidents.
Research and development - CITB researches to understand the changing needs of the construction industry. This includes labour market intelligence, skills forecasting, and the development of new training methods and technologies.

Best practices for implementation of legislation and regulations

Compliance with health and safety legislation - Construction companies must comply with health and safety regulations to protect their workers. This includes regular training and certification through CITB-accredited courses. Employers should ensure their workforce is trained in key areas such as risk assessment, first aid, and safe working practices.
Utilising CITB grants - Employers should fully use CITB grants to fund training programmes. This not only enhances the skills of their workforce but also ensures compliance with industry standards. Applying for grants can be streamlined through CITB's online portal, making the process efficient and accessible.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) - Encouraging continuous professional development is vital. Employers should promote CPD among their workforce, ensuring that skills and knowledge are kept up to date with industry advancements. CITB provides resources and courses to support CPD efforts.
Implementing apprenticeship schemes - Apprenticeships are a key component of workforce development. Employers should implement apprenticeship schemes in partnership with CITB to attract and train new talent. Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience and a pathway to long-term careers in construction.

Recommendations

Leverage CITB resources - Make full use of the training, funding, and support provided by CITB to enhance workforce skills and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Promote health and safety - Regularly update and enforce health and safety training to reduce workplace accidents and improve site safety.
Invest in apprenticeships - Implement robust schemes to attract new talent and address skills shortages in the industry.
Utilise ComplyPlus™ - Our ComplyPlus™ software offers comprehensive solutions to efficiently manage legislative and regulatory compliance. It integrates with CITB requirements, ensuring that your organisation complies with industry standards.

Conclusion

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is essential for the growth and sustainability of the UK construction sector. By providing training, funding, and support, CITB helps bridge the skills gap and ensures that the industry remains competitive. Employers must leverage CITB resources, promote continuous professional development, and invest in health and safety training to maintain compliance and enhance workforce capabilities.

For more information on how to manage your compliance requirements effectively, explore our ComplyPlus™ legislation, regulatory compliance management software, and training. Click here to ensure your organisation meets industry standards and fosters a skilled, safe, and competent workforce.

About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.