FASET – working towards eliminating accidents at height

Falls from height are still the leading cause of death in the workplace; by producing the highest-quality training, courses and guidance, FASET is working towards eliminating accidents that occur at height on construction sites.

In order to stay at the leading edge of the industry, we are constantly reviewing and updating our training and guidance. We are pleased to announce that both our Edge Protection and Stair Tower Training (and qualification renewal process) have both been updated recently, with the changes coming into force on 1/9/22.


Edge Protection

Temporary edge protection systems are one of the main ways of preventing falls from height and must be designed and installed in accordance with BS EN 13374: 2013+A1_2018 Temporary edge protection systems – Product specification – Test methods.

The essence of the update to Edge Protection Training is as follows:

The FASET CSCS card and endorsement has a life of five years and is obtained by sitting the FASET Edge Protection Operative Training Course, undertaking supervised installation hours, building a portfolio of evidence of works carried out including video evidence, and holding a professional discussion with the assessor during which competence is judged. The amount of hours required and the level of the portfolio will depend on the individual’s experience levels and taking the GSA-2 Assessment:

• New learners will be required to undertake around 200 hours of supervised experience following the training course and will be required to submit a portfolio of 6 jobs they have completed before being signed off.
• Semi experienced learners will be required to submit evidence of 3 jobs prior to training. After training they will need to complete 100 hours of supervised installation and then submit a portfolio of 3 jobs they have completed.
• Experienced installers will attend a training course. The assessor will use their professional judgement to determine if the candidate is sufficiently experienced using a number of methods, including; evidence of clear practical experience during the training course along with any previous qualifications (e.g. CISRS Card) . If the experience is demonstrated the candidate will provide a portfolio of 3 jobs after the course prior to being signed off.

If competence is not demonstrated, a further site assessment may be organised following a period of supervised work to gain experience with further portfolio’s being submitted in support. Course attendance does not guarantee a FASET CSCS card.

In order to renew a card, the individual will undertake re-training to ensure their skills are up to date, and then the GSA-2 assessment to prove theoretical knowledge and practical skills. If they are successful, they are eligible to renew their FASET CSCS card. If not, further training and practical evidence will be required, along with a further re-assessment.

Stair Tower Training

Temporary stair towers are typically installed to provide a safe means of access onto a floor or roof.  Proprietary stair tower systems are connectedto the structure using tube and fitting components to tie them in.

The FASET CSCS card and endorsement has a life of five years and is obtained and subsequently renewed by re-sitting the FASET Stair Tower Installation Training Course and taking the GSA-3 Assessment. If competence is not demonstrated, a further course attendance/site assessment may be organised following a further period of supervised work. Again, course attendance does not guarantee a FASET CSCS card.

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