To qualify for an ECS card, it's essential to have an up-to-date Health, Safety, and Environmental (HS&E) certification. Why? This requirement sets a minimum safety standard, ensuring that all cardholders possess essential health and safety knowledge that reduces accidents and promotes safe, high-quality work practices on site, in the built environment or wider workplace.
You can meet this requirement by successfully completing the ECS HS&E Assessment or, if you already hold an equivalent or higher-level certification, by qualifying for a ‘valid exemption.’ Please note that the CITB (CSCS) H&S test is not accepted, as the ECS assessment specifically addresses the unique safety needs of electrotechnical workers, including fire safety.
Passing the ECS HSE Assessment demonstrates your competence in the industry minimum standard for workplace health, safety, and environmental standards, and fire safety in buildings awareness standard, helping to create a safer work environment industry-wide. Once passed, the ECS assessment is valid for two years. In this time, you will need to apply for your ECS card, or you will need to take a new assessment.
The ECS HSE Assessment can be taken online through
via MyECS or the
Employer Portal using remote invigilation services to allow tests to be taken at home, office, anywhere with privacy, a webcam and suitable connection. Face-to-face assessment sessions are also available through select employers and training providers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
If you require additional support or adjustments during the assessment, please speak with your test provider or your employer about accessing the necessary accommodations.
Steps to follow:
- Choose where you'd like to take the assessment - you can undertake the Assessment online through your MyECS account or at physical centres
- Visit our Preparation & Revision section to download the revision book. And revise!
- After the assessment, your MyECS account will be updated or a result letter will be sent to you. This will typically be via an email to the address that you provide.
- Once you've passed the assessment visit MyECS to continue your application.
Take a look at the sections below for more information about the assessment.