The CSCS Black Manager card is available to managers and people in relevant technical occupations who meet the qualification and Health, Safety and Environment test requirements for their occupation. CSCS currently lists relevant Construction Management/Technical NVQ/SVQ qualifications at Levels 4, 5, 6 or 7, so it is important not to assume that everybody needs Level 6 or everybody should choose Level 7.
When is a Level 6 route used?
CSCS's current occupation list includes a number of management occupations with Level 6 qualifications, including examples such as Building Site Manager, Civil Engineering Site Manager, Residential Site Manager and several construction contracting operations management routes. The exact qualification title must match the occupation accepted by CSCS.
SiteCourses currently offers enquiries for relevant remote Level 6 NVQ routes at £1,490 £1,788 incl. VAT.
View the SiteCourses Level 6 route →
When is a Level 7 route used?
Level 7 is used for certain senior management occupations in the current CSCS list. Examples include Construction Project Manager, Contracts Manager and Senior Construction Site Manager where the listed route is an appropriate Level 7 Construction Senior Management qualification.
SiteCourses currently advertises relevant remote Level 7 NVQ routes at £1,590 £1,908 incl. VAT.
View the SiteCourses Level 7 route →
Is Level 7 automatically better than Level 6?
No. For CSCS purposes, the important question is whether the qualification is accepted for your occupation. Taking a higher-numbered qualification does not remove the need to meet the occupation-specific requirements. Before starting an NVQ, verify the proposed qualification against CSCS Card Finder or the current occupation and qualification list.
What HS&E test is required?
CSCS states that Black Manager card applicants must pass the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment test. CSCS requires the appropriate HS&E test to have been passed within the relevant application period; its current general card guidance states within the last two years.
Does SMSTS replace the NVQ?
No. CSCS explicitly states that SMSTS and SSSTS are not accepted as the occupational qualification for Manager or Supervisor cards. They are separate safety-training courses.
Official references: CSCS Manager card and CSCS occupation and qualification list.