How the Red TSM CSCS Card Helps You Get on Site

If you’re an experienced site manager, supervisor, or technical professional struggling to get onto site because you don’t yet hold a Gold or Black CSCS card, the Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) CSCS Card could be the solution.

This card provides temporary access to site while you work towards the NVQ you need for your full CSCS card.

What Is the Red TSM CSCS Card?

The Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) card is a temporary CSCS card for people who already have substantial on-site experience but have not yet achieved the NVQ or SVQ required for a skilled CSCS card.

It’s designed for experienced professionals — not trainees — who can already demonstrate competence in their role but need to complete a construction-related qualification to gain their permanent card.

Once you’re registered on the appropriate NVQ, you can apply for the Red card to keep working safely and legally while you complete your qualification.

Who the Red TSM Card Is For

The Red Experienced TSM card is typically suitable for:

  • Supervisors working towards an NVQ at Level 3 or Level 4 (for the Gold Supervisor CSCS Card)

  • Managers or Technical Staff working towards an NVQ at Level 6 or Level 7 (for the Black Manager CSCS Card)

Examples include:

  • Construction Site Supervisors

  • Site Managers and Project Managers

  • Construction Contracting Operations Managers

  • Health & Safety Managers (working in construction environments only)

You would normally need to have at least one year of relevant on-site experience within the last three years to be eligible.

Requirements for the Red TSM CSCS Card

To apply for this card, you must:

  1. Be registered on the relevant construction-related NVQ or SVQ at Level 3 or higher.

    • You don’t need to have completed the qualification yet — registration is sufficient.

  2. Have passed the appropriate CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test within the last two years:

    • Supervisors should complete the Supervisors HS&E Test

    • Managers should complete the Managers and Professionals (MAP) HS&E Test

The Red TSM card is valid for three years and cannot be renewed. During this time, you’re expected to complete your NVQ and then apply for your full Gold (Supervisor) or Black (Manager) CSCS card.

How to Get Started with CADUK

  1. Find the right NVQ – Browse our site to find the qualification that best matches your current role and experience.

  2. Click “Apply” and complete the profiling form – This quick form helps us confirm which NVQ is right for you.

  3. Assessor review – One of our experienced assessors will contact you to discuss your experience and confirm your eligibility.

  4. Receive your NVQ enrolment confirmation – Once approved, you’ll be officially registered for your NVQ and receive confirmation that you can use to apply for your Red TSM CSCS card through the official CSCS website.

Why the Red Card Is So Useful

The Red Experienced TSM card allows you to:

  • Maintain site access while working towards your NVQ

  • Avoid downtime or site restrictions caused by missing CSCS credentials

  • Demonstrate professional commitment to achieving a recognised qualification

  • Progress quickly to your full CSCS card once your NVQ is complete

Why Choose CADUK for Your NVQ

  • 100% online assessment using our secure CADUK ePortfolio

  • One-to-one support from construction professionals with real industry experience

  • No classroom attendance or exams

  • Evidence based on your real work experience

  • Flexible completion — often within a few months

Take the Next Step

If you’re an experienced manager, supervisor, or technical specialist who needs to access site, the Red TSM CSCS card can help you stay compliant and keep working while you gain your qualification.

Browse our NVQs to find the one that fits your role, click Apply, and complete your free profiling form. One of our assessors will be in touch to confirm your next steps.

Tags: