The integrity of health and safety training and certification is fundamental to protecting lives across the construction and asbestos sectors. UKATA takes any attempt to fraudulently obtain qualifications extremely seriously. In recent years, there have been several instances across the wider construction industry involving alleged certificate and test fraud, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and strong enforcement action to safeguard standards.
According to recent reporting by Construction News, four people have been arrested following police raids in connection with suspected exam fraud at a construction testing centre in Winchester.
Officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Economic Crime Unit executed warrants at an independent test centre on Southgate Street, Winchester and at a second address in Southampton on 15 February, following a referral from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) regarding alleged fraudulent activity.
The investigation followed information that the centre had been accepting payments to help individuals fraudulently pass online tests required for a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. CSCS cards are widely used across the UK construction industry to demonstrate that workers have passed the relevant Health, Safety and Environment test alongside an approved trade-specific qualification.
During the searches, officers seized electronic devices and cash. A 47-year-old man from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property. Three further men aged 53 (West Bromwich), 25 (Birmingham) and 46 (Swindon) were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud and have been released on bail until 15 May while enquiries continue.
Fraudulently obtaining a pass on mandatory health and safety testing undermines the entire competence framework that protects workers and the public. Individuals who have not legitimately demonstrated their understanding of health and safety legislation and site practice may place themselves and others at significant risk.
UKATA fully supports the action taken by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Economic Crime Unit in investigating these serious allegations. Strong enforcement sends a clear message that fraudulent activity will not be tolerated and reinforces the industry’s collective responsibility to uphold high standards of training, assessment and certification.
UKATA operates a zero-tolerance policy towards certificate fraud. Any attempts to create, issue, or use a fraudulent certificate are dealt with swiftly and reported to the relevant authorities including The Health & Safety Executive (HSE).
UKATA’s Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans said “UKATA is committed to protecting the public, members, associates, workers, and their employees from the risks associated to asbestos exposure.
If health and safety training is being overlooked this not only increases workers risk of exposure to deadly asbestos but also the buildings users. Asbestos related health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma are not identified immediately after exposure to asbestos. It can take between 15 and 60 years before these diseases present themselves.
Let's work together to ensure a safe working environment for all”.
UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.
Published on Thursday 5th March 2026