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A white card is a card that is issued to those who have completed the training required to work on construction sites. This card is required for all construction workers, vendors and inspectors.
The construction industry requires the white card. It is also known as the "construction induction card". It is used to show that cardholders are familiar with common construction hazards.
Many hazards can lead to serious injury or even death at a construction site. Each year more than 12,000 workers file claims for workers' compensation . Among the most common causes of fatalities and injuries on construction sites are:
- Body stress
- Slips, trips and falls
- Falls from high peaks
- Incidents involving vehicles
- Moveable objects can be hit
- Contact electricity
Over the last 15 years, the number of serious cases has been steadily declining. Safety training has played a part in the decrease in injuries. To ensure safer workplaces, the Australian government continues to implement Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws.
Training with the white card helps to reduce the chance of injury or death. The training program teaches workers how to recognize hazards and use risk management measures such as personal protective equipment (PPE) to mitigate them. These courses teach basic emergency response procedures, how to use safety signs, and what the roles are for safety and health personnel.
What is a Digital White Card?
Many states and territories have or are planning to implement digital white card systems. A digital white card can be accessed on a smartphone by cardholders. Digital cards are available in New South Wales and Northern Territory. They can be used alongside a physical card.
After releasing digital driving licenses, New South Wales launched a digital white card. To release the digital card, NSW's government collaborated with Service NSW and SafeWork NSW.
To obtain your digital card, you will need to download the "Service NSW App". After you log in and verify your details, the app displays your digital whitecard.
You can apply online for a white card in the Northern Territory. You can download a digital copy of the card to you phone via the Apple or Google wallet apps.
How do I get a white card?
To obtain a white card, you must complete the white-card training course with a registered training organization. The CPCWHS1001 – Prepared to Work Safely In the Construction Industry national level of competency must be completed. The course covers the following topics:
- Identifying legislative requirements
- Common site hazards and measures to control them
- Communication and reporting of safety and health information
- Identifying the incident and emergency response procedures
You must verify your identity to be eligible for a white card. You will need to present 100 pieces of identification. This may include one or more of these:
- Driving licence
- Certificate of birth
- Utility bill
- ATM Card
- Medicare card
Also, you must be at least 18 years old and have basic English language reading/writing skills. Follow simple instructions and complete basic forms.
It is not necessary to have any previous work experience or training. The white card is only one qualification that a construction worker might need. You may need to complete training in confined areas, working at heights and asbestos awareness for construction work.
To demonstrate their understanding of the course content, participants must pass an assessment. You will need to pass both knowledge and performance evidence sections of the assessment. You will receive a statement of attainment after passing the assessment.
After completing the course, the physical white card will be mailed to you. The card may take a few weeks to arrive. You can also present your statement of attainment to prove your qualification.
How do I get a white card online?
In certain states and territories, you can get a white card online. Online you can obtain a Queensland QLD whitecard but not a Victoria VIC one. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only a few registered training organizations (RTOs), online training is available.
First, you should determine if online courses are offered in your region. You will need an internet connection and an updated internet browser to access training if it is offered. Training is provided via live webinar. This requires an internet connection.
How do I apply for a white card?
After you have completed the training, the RTO usually submits paperwork for your whitecard. In most cases, you don't need to apply for the White Card yourself.
What is the average time it takes to get a white card?
The statement of attainment is valid for 60 days. Most cards are issued within 30 days. You can contact SafeWork or WorkSafe if you don't receive your card within 30 calendar days.
What is the Average Time It Takes to Complete a White Card Course?
For face-to-face training, the course can take anywhere from half a day up to a whole day. Participants can learn at their own pace with online training. Participants may finish the course in just a few hours while others might spend several days studying the material.
The assessment usually takes one to two hours. If you have a larger class, the course might take longer. Sometimes, group discounts may be available for enrolling multiple workers to the course.
What is the life expectancy of a white card?
What is the validity of a white card? Technically, white cards don't expire. Most companies and safety organizations recommend that you retake the training course every two year. If you have been away from the construction industry more than two years, you may want to retake this course.
How do I find my white card number online?
Depending on where the card was issued, white card holders may be eligible to search for their numbers online. To search for card information in Western Australia, for example, you could use the " Construction Induction Training Card Database".
The RTO is the one that issued your card. You can retrieve your card number and request a replacement card by contacting the RTO. The RTO issues replacement white cards.
Conclusion
Before you can enter the construction industry, you will need to have a white card. A registered training provider such as AlertForce will require you to complete a training program. You will be issued a white certificate after you have completed the course.
In some states and territories, you can now get a digital card. You might also be able complete the training online depending on where your work is. AlertForce experts are available to help you learn more.