What is CITB’s Jurisdiction Over the Construction Sector?

The CITB operates under statutory authority in the UK, which gives it certain powers and responsibilities within the construction industry. However, it is not a regulatory body—it is focused on skills development and training rather than enforcement. 

Key Aspects of CITB’s Jurisdiction 

While the CITB has no regulatory power over the construction industry, it holds significant influence through its levy-funded initiatives, training standards, and strategic focus on workforce development.

CITB’s key purpose is to influence and help:

• Establish industry-wide standards for training and qualifications.
• Create a pipeline of skilled workers, addressing labor shortages.
• Support employers with subsidized training, reducing overall costs.
• Advocate for the construction sector's needs at a national level, aligning workforce development with government and industry priorities.

► 1 - Statutory Authority

• The CITB operates under the Industrial Training Act 1982 and is responsible for overseeing skills and training development in the construction sector across England, Scotland, and Wales.
• The levy system itself is authorised and reviewed by UK law, and employers in the construction sector are legally required to pay it if they meet the criteria.

► 2 - Scope of Influence

• CITB has jurisdiction over any employer involved in construction-related activities, such as contractors, builders, and suppliers.
• It focuses on ensuring that these businesses contribute to and benefit from training initiatives to maintain a skilled workforce.

► 3 - What Determines a Construction Company?

A company is liable for the CITB Levy if:

• It is engaged in construction-related activities as defined by CITB, which includes a broad range of activities like building, civil engineering, installation, and maintenance work.
• It falls within the CITB’s scope of work, which covers most businesses in the construction sector.

► 4 - Industry Training Needs

• CITB assesses the skills and training requirements of the construction sector and develops initiatives to address gaps in areas such as health and safety, management, and apprenticeships.
• This includes creating and accrediting qualifications, like the Site Safety Plus scheme.

► 5 - Grant Funding and Training Delivery

• CITB provides grants and funding to employers, training providers, and apprenticeships, making it a key player in the education and professional development of the workforce.
• Employers must comply with CITB requirements (e.g., levy returns) to access these benefits.
• Employers who are exempt, or individuals, can access the CITB Grants and Funding - call us on 01623 749718 us to find out how

► 6 - Non-Regulatory Role

• While CITB has significant influence over training and skills development, it does not regulate or enforce standards in the construction industry. Regulatory authority (e.g., workplace safety) falls under bodies like the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).