How to Build a Training Matrix for Scaffolding Contractors

Do not reduce grades to one card column

Labourers, trainees, scaffolders, advanced scaffolders and supervisors have different records and duties. Capture the exact card or certificate title and evidence. Where your process tracks COTS, SG4, TG20, harness inspection or first aid, keep these as distinct fields rather than notes inside a CSCS cell.

Suggested structure, not a mandate

• Worker and employer or subcontract company
• Operational grade and primary gang
• CISRS card type, number and expiry
• Course records assigned to that role
• Inspection or supervisory records where applicable
• Project induction and access records
• Evidence file and renewal-booking note

Check gangs against the programme

Review the complete gang before mobilisation, including supervision and any rescue or first-aid arrangements established by your planning process. Check whether dates remain current until planned striking, not merely erection day. Mark missing evidence openly and avoid treating a booking confirmation as a renewed card.

1. Import the existing card register.
2. Split generic card values into exact grades.
3. Assign role baselines approved by your business.
4. Attach front and back images where needed.
5. Filter upcoming projects and expiries together.
6. Update the day renewal evidence arrives.

Keep trainee progression visible

Trainee scaffolders need a record that distinguishes completed learning from the work they may perform under supervision. Keep planned Part 1 or Part 2 dates, portfolio activity and employer reviews as development information rather than current card status. When a gang changes, check that the supervision arrangement still matches the mix of grades and the work being undertaken. For subcontract gangs, agree who verifies cards and who informs you of substitutions; a company matrix received at tender stage will not reveal a replacement on Monday morning. Periodically verify card details through the recognised route and record the date of that check.

Use filters that show the complete proposed gang with grade and expiry side by side. That view helps contracts staff identify where a job relies on one advanced scaffolder or supervisor and where annual leave would remove planned cover. Add project inductions only after dates are confirmed and expire them at demobilisation if that reflects the site rule. Do not allow old induction columns to imply that a returning worker can bypass the current project process.

Use records as evidence, not authorisation

FieldClear tracks assigned records and dates. It does not assess scaffolders, design scaffolds, approve gang composition or replace CISRS verification and site controls. Requirements differ by work and client, and this guide is not legal advice.