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CCDO Partner Cards

Workforce skills support is an accredited NVQ Training Centre
We deliver NVQ qualifications recognised by the Certificate of Competence of Demolition Operatives (CCDO) card scheme.
ccdo partner cards
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About CCDO Cards

Workforce Skills Support is an NVQ-accredited centre with the awarding organisations ProQual and SQA.

​As an accredited centre, we deliver NVQ qualifications recognised by the Certificate of Competence of Demolition Operatives (CCDO) card scheme. This allows employers and candidates to apply for their CCDO cards in line with the additional requirements set out by the scheme administered by the NDTG.

Individuals will be visited by their assessor at their place of work. The assessor will guide them through each part of the process, observe them working, and provide the highest levels of support until they complete their qualifications. This is ideal for individuals and employers needing to avoid downtime and days away from the site.​
CCDO-CARDS

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about these CCDO cards? Here is a compilation of our most frequently asked questions.
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The Demolition Card Scheme, also known as the CCDO (Construction and Demolition Operatives) Card Scheme, is a certification programme specific to the demolition industry.

It is designed for individuals in the construction and demolition industry and is administered and issued by the National Demolition Training Group (NDTG).

The scheme aims to ensure that individuals working in the demolition industry have the appropriate training, qualifications, and competency to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

The National Demolition Training Group (NDTG) is responsible for managing the CCDO card scheme and setting the standards for qualifications and training within the industry. Initial training and refreshers by NDTG and approved providers help those working in the demolition sector enter the card scheme. Workforce Skills Support Demolition NVQs are recognised under the NDTG card scheme.

There are different levels of CCDO cards, each indicating a person's level of competence and qualifications in the demolition field.

The CCDO scheme offers various card levels: green, red, blue, and gold. The level you need depends on your role and experience in the industry. Contact our helpful team for information and advice on specific circumstances.

Green Card

  • This is typically for labourers and skilled workers who have passed the Health, Safety, and Environment Test and the CCDO Demolition Labourer course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid Asbestos Awareness Certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • This card is valid for 2 years and is renewable.

Red Card

  • For those working in demolition roles, a level of relevant training has been completed.
  • These are available for the levels of Apprentice, Demolition and Refurbishment Operative, Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman), Demolition Chargehand, Demolition Supervisor, Demolition Industry Placement, Demolition Manager, and Demolition Contracts Manager.
  • This card is valid for 3 years and is non-renewable.

Blue Card

  • For skilled workers in demolition roles, a progression from the red card demonstrates experience in the sector and shows they are qualified to take on the full responsibility of the job role.
  • These are available for the levels of Demolition and Refurbishment Operative and Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman) for those with around five years or more experience and allow for the demolition of load-bearing walls at the advanced level.
  • This card is valid for 5 years and is renewable.

Silver Card

  • skilled working Supervisors, often referred to as Chargehand, leading a team of topmen, demolition and Refurbishment operators, and CCDO Labourers, probably reporting to a CCDO Demolition Site Supervisor.
  • This card is valid for 5 years and is renewable.

Gold Card

  • For skilled-working Demolition Supervisors, having a team of chargehands reporting to them.
  • The Demolition Supervisor will be reporting directly to management and taking control of Health, Safety, Quality, and Environment systems (HSQE).
  • This card is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

Black Card

  • Skilled Demolition Managers demonstrate the most senior positions in the demolition industry.
  • Cardholders will be qualified to take on full responsibility for a demolition project.
  • With a team of Site Supervisors and Chargehands, they could be responsible for several smaller demolition projects.

Depending on their level of experience and responsibility, individuals working in demolition or construction roles may need a CCDO card to demonstrate their qualifications and competency. It is a CSCS-affiliated card scheme recommended by the Construction Industry Training Board and the National Demolition Training Group that employers and individuals follow to ensure health and safety compliance.

To obtain a CCDO card, individuals must complete relevant training, pass an approved health, safety, and environmental test, and provide evidence of their experience and qualifications. The specific requirements and assessments may vary depending on the card level.

CCDO cards typically have an expiration date. Individuals may need additional training and assessments or provide proof of continued competence to renew a card. For help renewing a card, contact our helpful team for information and advice on specific circumstances.

The test assesses your knowledge of health and safety regulations. Study materials and practice tests are often available to help you prepare. For advice on the test, check out the information here.

It's essential to renew your card before it expires.

Some qualifications and experience from other recognised schemes may be transferable. Contact the CCDO for guidance on this.

Yes, there are typically costs involved in the application, training, and assessment processes. The fees may vary based on the card level and training providers. If you are an employer that is CITB levy registered or an employee working for a CITB levy registered employer, contact our friendly team, who can advise on grants and funding that may help you cover the costs.

Yes, there are typically costs involved in the application, training, and assessment processes. The fees may vary based on the card level and training providers. If you are an employer that is CITB levy registered or an employee working for a CITB levy registered employer, contact our friendly team, who can advise on grants and funding that may help you cover the costs.

It's possible to go directly onto the most relevant CCDO card for the role you will be fulfilling, but you will be required to provide a CV or a CCDO Application Evidence form. NDTG will be able to advise on this process.

Competence of Demolition Operatives (CCDO) Cards Requirements

CCDO-demolition-labourer
Green Card

Demolition Labourer

The first step towards being qualified for demolition is obtaining a green CCDO Demolition Labourer Card. Designed for people who are either new to the demolition sector or switching from normal construction employment to demolition labour.

After completing the CCDO Demolition Labourer training, which covers emergency procedures, waste management, and site safety, card holders are qualified to carry out general labour tasks under supervision.

This card is valid for 2 years.

This card is renewable; however, candidates may want to progress onto a Demolition & Refurbishment Card before renewal.

  • Candidates must pass the Demolition Labourer Level 1 course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Operative or Higher CITB Health, Safety, & Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo trained operative demolition & refurbishment
Red Card

Trained Operative Demolition & Refurbishment

The CCDO Demolition and Refurbishment Operative card enables people to use mechanical hand tools, remove fixtures and fittings, and demolish non-load-bearing buildings.

The red card has a three-year expiration date and cannot be renewed. Red cardholders can change their card to a fully qualified Blue Demolition Refurbishment Operative card by completing NVQ Level 2 within the allotted 3-year period.

This card is valid for 3 years.

This card is non-renewable.

  • Candidates must have held a Demolition Labourer Card and have 2 years of Demolition Industry experience.
  • Candidates must pass the Demolition & Refurbishment Operative Course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD). This cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, & Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo-blue-demolition-and-refurbishment-operative
Blue Card

Demolition & Refurbishment Operative

The CCDO Demolition and Refurbishment Operative card enables people to use mechanical hand tools, remove fixtures and fittings, and demolish non-load-bearing buildings. The Level 2 Demolition & Refurbishment NVQ must have been successfully completed by those who possess this qualification. The blue card can be renewed every five years.

This card is valid for 5 years.

This card is renewable. In order to renew this card, candidates must meet the following requirements:
  • Candidates must pass the Demolition & Refurbishment Operative Course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.

Candidates must have completed an apprenticeship course.

OR
  • Candidates must hold the Red (3-year) Demolition & Refurbishment Operative card.
  • Candidates must complete the Level 2 Demolition & Refurbishment NVQ.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, & Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo trained operative advanced demolition operative topman
Red Card

Trained Operative Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman)

Those with the CCDO Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman) card are qualified to do structural hotworks, read blueprints, and operate pertinent tools when demolishing structural elements.

In order to enrol in the one-day course, holders must have five years of industrial experience, as attested to by a CV.

The red card has a three-year expiration date and cannot be renewed. Red card holders can change their card to a fully qualified Blue Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman) card by completing NVQ Level 3 within the allotted 3-year period.

This card is valid for 3 years.

This card is non-renewable.

  • Candidates need 5 years of industry experience.
  • Candidates must complete the Level 3 Demolition & Refurbishment NVQ.
  • Candidates must pass the 1-day Topman Course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, & Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman)
Blue Card

Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman)

Those with the CCDO Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman) card are qualified to do structural hotworks, read blueprints, and operate pertinent tools when demolishing structural elements.

To be eligible to carry this card, an individual must pass the Level 3 Advanced Demolition Operative (Topman) NVQ. The blue card can be renewed every five years.

This card is valid for 5 years.

This card is renewable. Operatives will need to take the 1-day Topman course.

  • Candidates must hold a Red Demolition Topman Card.
  • Candidates must have completed the Level 3 Topman NVQ.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, & Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo trained operative demolition chargehand
Red Card

Trained Operative Demolition Chargehand

The abilities needed to lead a team on a demolition site are taught to those with the CCDO Demolition Chargehand card. Possessing five years of demolition expertise, holders will be able to oversee less seasoned workers and take on extra responsibilities like organising and distributing site inductions.

The red card has a three-year expiration date and cannot be renewed. Red cardholders who wish to change their card to a fully qualified Silver Chargehand card must finish NVQ Level 3 within the allotted three years.

This card is valid for 3 years.

This card is non-renewable.

  • Candidates need to complete the 2-day CCDO Chargehand course.
  • Candidates must have held a Blue Demolition Topman Card.
  • Candidates need 5 years of industry experience.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo silver demolition chargehand
silver Card

Demolition Chargehand

"Working supervisors" who, under the direction of a CCDO demolition site supervisor, manage a group of CCDO topmen, CCDO demolition refurbishment operators, and CCDO labourers to carry out particular demolition or dismantling duties. Experienced topmen must obtain an NVQ Level 3 in supervision after completing the Chargehand course.

The holder of this certificate must possess a complete 5-year CCDO Topman qualification, either from prior experience or now. The silver card can be renewed every five years.

This card is valid for 5 years.

This card is renewable. Operatives will need to take the 2-day Chargehand course.

Candidates must hold the red Demolition Chargehand Card.

OR
  • Candidates need 5 years of industry experience.
  • Candidates must have achieved the Level 3 Demolition Chargehand NVQ.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo trained operative demolition supervisor
Red Card

Trained Operative Demolition Supervisor

Those who hold the CCDO Demolition Supervisor card are authorised to oversee all aspects of demolition operations on site, including organising and conducting site orientations and making sure there is efficient team communication. The Supervisor, who will answer directly to management, will also be in charge of HSQE system implementation. Before attending the five-day training, supervisors must have at least five years of experience working on demolition projects.

The red card has a three-year expiration date and cannot be renewed. Red cardholders who wish to change their card to a fully certified Gold Supervisor card must finish NVQ Level 3+/4 within the allotted three years.

This card is valid for 3 years.

This card is non-renewable.

  • Candidates must have held the Demolition Chargehand Card.
  • Candidates need 5 years of industry experience.
  • Candidates need to complete the 5-day Supervisor course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Supervisor Health, Safety, and Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo-gold-demolition-supervisor
gold Card

Gold Demolition Supervisor

With the CCDO Demolition Supervisor card, a person is authorised to oversee all aspects of demolition operations on the job site, including organising and conducting site orientations, facilitating efficient team communication, and managing Chargehands. The supervisor, who will answer directly to management, will also be in charge of HSQE system implementation. 

The NVQ Level 4 Site Supervisor qualification is a prerequisite for CCDO Demolition Site Supervisors. The gold card can be renewed every five years.

This card is valid for 5 years.

This card is renewable. Operatives will need to sit the 2-day Chargehand course.

Candidates must hold the red Demolition Chargehand Card.

OR
  • Candidates need 5 years of industry experience.
  • Candidates must have achieved the Level 3 Demolition Chargehand NVQ.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Demolition Specialist or Higher CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test within the last 2 years.
trained operative demolition manager
Red Card

Trained Operative Demolition Manager

The highest ranking card in the CCDO card scheme is the CCDO Demolition Manager Card. The completion of a five-day training, typically spread over five weeks, will qualify participants to assume full responsibility for a demolition project, including liaison with surveyors and clients and regular site management communications with supervisors.

In order to be eligible for the 5-day course, managers need to have at least 5 years of experience. The red card has a three-year expiration date and cannot be renewed. Red cards who wish to change their card to a fully certified Black Managers card must finish NVQ Level 6 within the allotted three years.

This card is valid for 3 years.

This card is non-renewable.

Candidates must have held the gold Demolition Supervisor Card.

OR
  • Candidates need 5 years of industry experience.
  • Candidates need to complete the 5-day Demolition Manager course.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Managers & Professionals Health, Safety & Environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo-demolition-manager
black Card

Demolition Manager

The highest ranking card in the CCDO card programme is the Black CCDO Demolition Manager Card. In addition to having regular communication with CCDO Chargehands and Site Supervisors regarding the operation of the site, cardholders will be eligible to assume full responsibility for demolition projects. Alternatively, they will be in charge of a number of smaller demolition projects that are managed daily by CCDO Supervisors. 

You need to pass the NVQ L6 in Demolition Management in order to convert to the fully qualified Black CCDO Demolition Manager card. The CCDO Black Card is renewed beyond the initial five-year period.

This card is valid for 5 years.

This card is renewable. Operatives will need to re-sit the 1-day Managers refresher course.

  • Must have passed the 5-day Demolition Managers course and hold the red 3-year Managers card.
  • Candidates must have completed the Level 6 Demolition Manager NVQ.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Managers & Professionals health, safety & environment test within the last 2 years.
ccdo-demolition-contracts-manager
black Card

Demolition Contracts Manager

The highest ranking card in the CCDO card structure is the Demolition Contracts Manager Card. Cardholders will be able to assume all project responsibilities, including liaison with clients and surveyors and regular site management communications with supervisors. In order to be eligible for the 5-day course, managers need to have at least 5 years of experience. 

Red cardholders who wish to change their card to a fully qualified 5-year Black CCDO Contracts Manager card must finish NVQ Level 7 within the allotted 3-year period.

This card is valid for 5 years.

This card is renewable. Operatives will need to re-sit the 1-day Managers refresher course.

  • Must have passed the 5-day Demolition Managers course and hold the red 3-year Managers card.
  • Candidates must complete the Level 7 Construction Contracts Manager NVQ.
  • Candidates must hold a valid asbestos awareness certificate under an accredited qualification scheme (NDTG, UKATA, ARCA, or ACAD); this cannot be gained through e-learning.
  • A pass in the Managers & Professionals health, safety & environment test within the last 2 years.

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