The Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification is designed to give learners the essential knowledge needed to work safely on a construction site.
It’s the first step into the construction industry, as this qualification is needed in order to get the CSCS Green Labourer Card – which is a legal requirement to work on all construction sites in the UK.
At its core, the Level 1 Health and Safety course covers the risks, responsibilities, and safe practices that every construction worker must understand before stepping onto site.
It also helps employers ensure their team members are aware of health and safety legislation, accident prevention, and how to identify and report hazards.
Read on to discover everything you’ll need to know about the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification.
How Long Does Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment Last?
The Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course itself is a lifelong qualification.
Once you’ve passed it, you don’t need to repeat it — your certificate doesn’t expire. However, the CSCS Green Card that it helps you qualify for does have an expiry date.
The CSCS Green Card used to be valid for five years, but in February 2025 this was reduced to two years. So, after two years, you’ll need to renew your CSCS green card if you want to keep working on site.
To do that, you won’t have to retake the Level 1 qualification unless it’s required by your employer, but you will need to sit the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test again.
That test is usually refreshed with updated content every few years to reflect new guidance and legislation, so it’s important to stay up to date.
How to Get Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment
To gain the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification, you’ll need to complete a short training course and demonstrate your knowledge.
At Train 4 Growth, we make the process simple. Here’s how it works:
1. Choose how you want to study
You can study by distance learning using an online workbook with tutor support, or you can attend a classroom-based one-day course. Both routes cover the same content and lead to the same qualification.
2. Work through the course content
The training includes everything you need to know about working safely in construction — from identifying hazards and wearing the correct PPE, to fire safety, working at heights, and dealing with accidents or emergencies.
3. Answer questions to prove your knowledge
You’ll complete a series of written answers or take a multiple-choice assessment. Our assessors are on hand to help if you need support or guidance with your learning.
4. Get your Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment certificate
Once you’ve passed, you’ll receive your certificate. You can then book your CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test, which is a separate requirement.
5. Apply for your CSCS Green Card
After passing both the Level 1 Health and Safety course and the CITB test, you’ll be eligible to apply for your CSCS Green Labourer Card, which is your ticket to working on construction sites in the UK. We can help you with your application as part of our CSCS Green Card package – see below for more information.
Where Can I Do a CSCS Green Card 1 Day Course Online?
If you’re looking for a CSCS Green Card 1 day course online, you’re in the right place.
At Train 4 Growth, we offer fast-track options that let you complete the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification and take your CITB test all in one day.
Our CSCS green card one day course online package includes the following:
• The Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course
• Your CSCS test
• Help with the card application process – which should arrive within 5-10 working days of completion.
• Photo and admin
What Topics Are Covered in the Health & Safety Level 1 Course?
The Health & Safety Level 1 course is built around the real-world knowledge you’ll need to work safely on any construction site. Topics include:
• Site-specific risk assessments and method statements
Learners are expected to understand the importance of risk assessments and method statements in identifying and controlling hazards.
• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
PPE is a core part of the course. Learners must understand types of PPE, when to use it, and why it’s critical to site safety.
• Fire prevention and emergency procedures
Fire hazards, prevention strategies, and what to do in emergencies (including raising the alarm and safe evacuation) are standard topics.
• Manual handling techniques
Manual handling is a key risk area on sites. The course covers safe lifting techniques and the risks of poor handling practices.
• Working at height
This is included under hazard identification and control. Learners are taught about fall prevention and safe working procedures.
• Asbestos awareness
The Level 1 Health and Safety course covers asbestos as a known site hazard and the importance of not disturbing suspect materials.
• Safe use of tools and equipment
Learners are taught to recognise the hazards linked to equipment and to follow safety procedures when using tools.
• Site signage and legal responsibilities
The health and safety level 1 course includes instruction on understanding mandatory signage, warning signs, and health and safety responsibilities under the law.
• Health risks, including dust and hazardous substances
Topics like COSHH, silica dust, and other workplace health risks are discussed as part of the overall approach to hazard awareness.
• Site welfare and personal hygiene
Basic welfare provision (toilets, washing, rest areas) and hygiene practices are part of the health and safety framework covered.
Why Is the Level 1 Health and Safety Course So Important?
Getting the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification is about more than just ticking a box.
The construction industry can be dangerous if workers don’t follow the right procedures. The Level 1 Health and Safety qualification makes sure that everyone on site understands their responsibilities and the importance of working safely.
For employers, it’s about meeting legal requirements and protecting your workforce. For workers, it’s about having the knowledge you need to stay safe — and having the CSCS card that proves it.
Without this qualification and the CSCS Green Card that it leads to, you will be unable to legally find work on any construction site in the UK.
What Can This Course Lead To?
Once you’ve completed your Level 1 Health and Safety qualification and received your CSCS Green Card, you can start building experience on-site.
Over time, you might want to specialise in a particular trade — that’s where Train 4 Growth can help.
We offer a wide range of Level 2 and Level 3 NVQs in different construction trades. Here are some great progression routes:
• Level 2 NVQ in Plant Operations (Construction)
Perfect if you’re interested in operating diggers, rollers, or other heavy machinery on site.
• Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Specialist Concrete Occupations (Construction)
Ideal if you enjoy hands-on work and want to build skills in concrete finishing and flooring.
• Level 2 NVQ in Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying)
If you’re thinking about becoming a bricklayer, this is the route to go from general labouring to a skilled trade.
• Level 2 NVQ in Roofing Occupations
Designed for those who want to become qualified roofers — including tiling, slating, or waterproofing.
If plastering is your area of interest, this course helps you go from basic experience to a fully qualified plasterer.
These subsequent courses will help you to gain your Blue Skilled Worker CSCS Card and move into more advanced roles.
How to Enrol
The Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualification is your first big step into the construction industry.
Whether you want to start working as a labourer, change careers, or simply make sure you’re site-ready, this course gets you there.
And with Train 4 Growth, you’re not just getting a course — you’re getting ongoing support, practical guidance, and clear steps for what to do next.
Want to get started? Explore our Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course page to find out more about booking your CSCS Green Card 1 day course online.
To enrol, give us a call on 0161 706 1401 or send us a message for a swift response.
