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How to Prepare for the CITB Test

A simple revision plan, the topics that trip people up and what to bring on test day.

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Most people who fail the CITB HS&E test do so by a few marks. The pass mark is high: 45 out of 50 for Operatives and 46 out of 50 for Managers and Professionals. That leaves little room for guessing.

The good news is that the questions come from published material. With a week or two of steady revision, most candidates pass first time.

A two-week revision plan

  1. Days 1 to 3: get the materialUse the official CITB revision book or app for your test level. Read the section list so you know what is coming.
  2. Days 4 to 8: one topic a dayWork through working at height, manual handling, hazardous substances, fire, electricity and plant. Do the questions for each topic straight after reading.
  3. Days 9 to 11: mixed practiceTake full practice tests against the clock. Note every wrong answer.
  4. Days 12 to 13: fix weak spotsRe-read only the topics where you dropped marks.
  5. Day 14: rest and check your bookingConfirm your time, centre and ID the night before.

Topics that catch people out

TopicWhy it trips peopleWhat to focus on
Working at heightMany questions, fine detailLadders, scaffolds, edge protection
Hazardous substancesUnfamiliar termsCOSHH basics, asbestos, dust
EnvironmentOften overlookedWaste, spills, wildlife and noise
Behaviour scenariosNo single fact to learnChoose the safest, most responsible action

On the day Bring valid photo ID, arrive early, and read every question twice. You can flag a question and come back to it before you finish.

If you do not pass

You get your result straight away. If you fall short, look at which topics cost you marks, revise those and rebook. There is no limit on attempts. Read what the CITB test covers if you are still choosing your level.

Useful links

Book your training with Coteca

From the HS&E test to SMSTS and SSSTS, Coteca books CITB courses at centres across the UK and online.

See CITB coursesCall 0208 099 4324

Frequently asked questions

How long should I revise for the CITB test?

Most people need one to two weeks of short daily sessions. If English is not your first language, allow longer and ask about voice-over options.

Are practice questions like the real test?

They cover the same topics and style. Real questions are not published word for word.

What is the pass mark?

45 out of 50 for Operatives and Specialists, 46 out of 50 for Managers and Professionals.

Can I retake straight away?

Yes. Book again when you are ready. Through Coteca the test is £47 each time.

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