General construction induction training (White Card)

This information bulletin provides a guide to white card training in the Northern Territory.

The Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations 2011 requires workers performing construction work to hold a white card.

The approved unit of competency is:

CPCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry

The training can only be delivered by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that has the national training unit within their scope in the Northern Territory. For a list of approved training providers please refer to white card training providers.

Following the successful completion of the training, the applicant may apply to the Territory Business Centre (TBC) for a white card. Applicants are required to complete a general construction induction training card - application form and supply a statement of attainment or written declaration stating they have completed the training within the preceding 60 days.

A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must ensure that workers, who carry out construction work, either have a white card or has evidence they have completed the approved training.

A worker carrying out construction work must keep their white card available for inspection.

NT white cards are accepted by all jurisdictions.

Image 1: Sample front and back copy of an NT white card

NT white cards will have:

• Name, date of birth and signature of the card holder
• Issue date
• Card number, and
• RTO number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is induction for construction work training?

General induction training provides persons entering the construction industry with a basic knowledge of, the common hazards and risks likely to be encountered on construction sites and how these risks should be controlled.

When should I complete induction training?

Prior to commencing construction work in the NT, the PCBU must ensure all new workers have completed general construction induction training. A worker that has successfully completed training more than two years previously, but has not carried out construction is also required to complete the training.

I already have an interstate card; do I have to get a NT white card?

NT WorkSafe recognises all interstate cards if they remain valid in the issuing State/Territory. Please refer to information bulletin mutual recognition of general construction induction training cards.

If a PCBU has concerns over the legitimacy or level of competence, they may request that the training be re-completed.

Do I/my workers still have to do the task and site induction training?

Yes, the white card is only an induction into the industry. Workers must also do task and site specific induction training.

Will there be any refresher training required for construction industry workers.

There is no requirement for workers to undergo refresher training as site and task-specific training will supplement “once off” induction training.

Who needs to undertake general construction induction training?

(Source: National Code of Practice for Induction for Construction Work)