The Highways Agency and the County Surveyors Society have become the latest clients to demand all workers on their sites hold the CSCS card or equivalent.

The commitment by the two major construction procurers will boost the drive to achieve a fully qualified workforce in the industry. The move comes as CSCS expanded to cover three further occupations: curtain and blind installation, civil and structural engineering and fenestration.

The Highways Agency and County Surveyors Society (CSS) now require all contractors bidding for work to employ a fully carded workforce.

George Brumwell, chairman of CSCS, welcomed the support of organisations for the scheme. He said: “Clients are the key to the success of the CSCS scheme. Many contractors have invested time and money in the scheme and its objectives and commitment should be rewarded.”

The Highways Agency is responsible for the strategic road network in Britain. CSS members provide consultancy services for 68% of the network in England and Wales.