Important changes to EUSR CSCS cards and SHEA training are now being introduced, with the new process due to take full effect from 1 October 2026.
The changes affect how SHEA training is recorded and how workers obtain an EUSR CSCS card for access to construction sites. If you work in the gas, power, water, telecoms or wider utilities sectors, it is important to understand what is changing and whether you need to take any action.
What Is Changing With EUSR CSCS Cards?
Previously, successful completion of an appropriate SHEA programme could result in an EUSR card displaying the CSCS logo.
Under the new system, the SHEA registration and the EUSR CSCS card application are being separated.
Workers completing one of the new SHEA (2026) programmes will receive an EUSR registration and card, but the card will not automatically display the CSCS logo.
Where a worker requires access to a construction site, they will then need to apply separately for the appropriate EUSR CSCS card for their particular occupation or role.
The underlying requirement remains the same: anyone applying for an EUSR CSCS card must have an in-date SHEA registration.
The aim is to ensure that workers hold a CSCS card which more accurately reflects the type of work they actually undertake.
New SHEA 2026 Programmes Are Now Available
EUSR has now introduced its new SHEA (2026) programmes.
Approved training providers can begin delivering and registering delegates against these programmes ahead of the full transition in October.
Existing SHEA 2023 and 2024 programmes can still be delivered until 30 September 2026.
From 1 October 2026, however, all new SHEA training must be delivered using the SHEA (2026) programmes.
Results from training undertaken using the older programmes can still be submitted until 13 November 2026. After the transition period, the older SHEA programmes will no longer be available for new registrations.
For employers planning training for teams during the second half of 2026, it is therefore worth being aware of which version of the programme delegates will be completing and how this relates to their site access requirements.
SHEA Training Is Still Required
One important point is that the changes do not remove the requirement for SHEA training.
Safety, Health and Environmental Awareness (SHEA) remains an important part of the EUSR registration process for workers throughout the utility industries.
SHEA programmes provide workers with an understanding of the key health, safety and environmental issues they are likely to encounter while working within utility environments.
At Jason Rowley Training, we provide SHEA courses covering a range of sectors, including:
- SHEA Gas
- SHEA Power
- SHEA Water
- SHEA Telecoms
- SHEA Cross Country Pipelines
- SHEA Drains and Sewers
- SHEA Waste and Resource Management
- SHEA Core
Successful completion can provide the SHEA registration required as part of the process of obtaining the relevant EUSR CSCS card where construction site access is necessary.
New EUSR Utilities Labourer Card
Another significant change is the introduction of the EUSR Utilities Labourer card. This replaces the previous Green Labourer card for new applications.
The Utilities Labourer card is intended specifically for people carrying out labouring duties within the utility sector. To qualify, applicants must have an in-date EUSR SHEA registration.
The card is valid for five years and can be renewed.
Workers carrying out skilled occupations should not apply for the Utilities Labourer card simply because they work on a construction site. Depending on their role and qualifications, they may instead need an EUSR CSCS Skilled Worker, Trainee or Apprentice card.
Existing Green Labourer cards do not immediately become invalid. They can continue to be used until their existing expiry date.
Why Are the EUSR CSCS Changes Being Introduced?
The changes are designed to create a clearer distinction between a worker’s health and safety training and the occupational competence represented by their CSCS card.
SHEA demonstrates that an individual has undertaken relevant health, safety and environmental awareness training. The separate CSCS application then allows the card held by the worker to reflect the occupation or duties they actually carry out.
For employers and site operators, this should make it easier to confirm that someone holds the correct card for their role rather than simply holding a generic site access card.
Do I Need a New EUSR Card Now?
Not necessarily.
Existing valid EUSR and CSCS cards do not automatically need to be replaced simply because the new system is being introduced. If you already hold a valid card, you should continue to check its expiry date and the requirements of the sites on which you work.
The changes are particularly relevant when:
- completing new SHEA training;
- renewing an existing SHEA registration;
- applying for a new EUSR CSCS card;
- changing occupation or job role; or
- arranging training and registrations for employees.
Employers should also review upcoming SHEA expiry dates so that training can be planned around the new arrangements.
Planning SHEA Training for 2026
With the new SHEA programmes now being introduced and the full transition taking place on 1 October 2026, businesses should make sure their training arrangements reflect the new requirements.
Jason Rowley Training provides practical, industry-focused SHEA training for individuals, contractors and organisations working throughout the UK utility sector.
We regularly deliver SHEA training for gas, power, water, telecoms and other utility environments, with options available for individual delegates as well as group and bespoke company training.
If you are unsure which SHEA course you require, whether your existing registration needs renewing, or how the new EUSR CSCS arrangements may affect your workforce, please contact the Jason Rowley Training team.
We can help you identify the appropriate training and plan your courses around your operational and site access requirements.
