The deadline to replace Industry Accreditation (IA) cards looms large with 15,000 workers yet to make the switch.
- IA cards, granted through employer recommendations, are to be withdrawn by the end of 2024.
- Despite efforts, a significant number of workers have not transitioned to qualification-based cards.
- The transition is pivotal to achieving a fully qualified workforce in line with industry standards.
- Concerns are mounting over potential skills shortages in the construction sector.
The construction industry is facing a looming deadline with the phase-out of Industry Accreditation (IA) cards by the end of 2024. These cards, often referred to as ‘grandfather rights’, have allowed workers to qualify through employer recommendations rather than formal qualifications. The transition, commenced in earnest in 2019, aims to shift workers to qualification-based cards, aligning with the industry’s move towards a fully qualified workforce.
As the deadline approaches, it is significant to note that 75% of workers have made the switch. However, the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has expressed concerns about the remaining 15,000 workers who have yet to change their cards. The NFB warns that without increased engagement from these workers, the construction sector could face a skills shortage, impacting its capacity and growth.
Alan O’Neile from CSCS highlighted the context of this transition as part of a 2015 recommendation from the Construction Leadership Council. More than half a million individuals have already made the transition, showcasing the industry’s commitment to upskilling. O’Neile emphasized that obtaining a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) is often more accessible than expected, with onsite assessments and funding support available.
Despite the support, some workers, particularly older individuals, remain hesitant. Rico Wojtulewicz of the NFB points out that the removal of grandfather rights might hinder the development and capacity of the workforce, particularly affecting older workers who have not engaged as anticipated. These workers possess valuable experience and skills that are crucial for knowledge transfer to younger generations.
Self-employed workers like Kevin Murphy express discontent, viewing the transition as a financial burden and a potential loss for the industry. Murphy, a door engineer, has decided not to renew his card, opting instead to cease working on building sites once his card lapses.
This transition aligns with the Building Safety Act’s demands, which place a legal duty on workers to ensure competency in their roles, requiring appropriate skills and qualifications.
The construction industry must navigate these changes carefully to ensure workforce competency without sacrificing valuable experience.
