Four men were arrested in Winchester after Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s Economic Crime Unit executed two warrants at an independent test centre amid allegations of cheating on construction industry exams.
The investigation began following a tip-off from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The fraudulent activity involved a testing centre on Southgate Street, Winchester, which allegedly accepted cash payments to help candidates cheat on their CITB Health and Safety exams.
Passing the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) test along with a trade-specific qualification is mandatory to obtain a CSCS card. This card certifies that workers are properly trained to manage risks on construction sites. Faking these qualifications endangers lives and compromises site safety.
The individuals arrested include a 47-year-old man from Southampton, who remains in custody on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud and possession of criminal property. Three others—a 25-year-old from Birmingham, a 46-year-old from Swindon, and a 53-year-old from West Bromwich—were also arrested on conspiracy to defraud charges and have been bailed until 15 May as investigations continue.
During the raids in Winchester and Southampton, police seized cash and electronic devices as part of the evidence collection.
Detective Inspector Jamie Johnson stated, “Helping people fraudulently pass these tests puts everyone at risk. Without proper training, workers don’t know how to keep themselves or others safe. Profiting from such criminal activity could cause serious injury or even death.”
Chris Simpson, Head of CITB’s Standard Setting Body, added, “Falsifying health and safety qualifications means unqualified individuals are working on sites. We’re committed to stamping out cheating and protecting the public.”
Marcus Mills, CSCS Fraud Prevention Manager, commented, “These arrests send a strong message. We work with regulators and the police to root out fraud. Employers should verify cards regularly using CSCS Smart Check to avoid counterfeit and revoked cards.”
This crackdown underscores ongoing efforts to maintain a competent and safe construction workforce. Employers are encouraged to use official card-checking tools to verify workers’ qualifications and protect sites from dangerous fraudsters.
Originally published by UKNIP.
