Category endorsements

• A40a: All types – All duties
• A40b: All types – Static duties only

Course Aims

The aim of this course is to give foundation training and assessment towards the achievement of a Construction Plant Competence Scheme Trained Operator Card.

This is the qualification you will need to be allowed to work on 90% of Major Contractor Sites.

Who should attend this course?

Potential and existing operators who have received no formal instruction and those requiring refresher training.

Course content

• Establishing the weight and dimensions of loads.
• Theory test tuition.
• Communicate information effectively to the crane operator.
• Select appropriate lifting tackle, attaching and detaching it safely.
• Directing the actions of a crane, moving loads of various dimensions and weights.
• Giving clear and unambiguous signals to ensure the safety of personnel and plant.
• Determine the serviceability of lifting tackle, maintaining and storing it correctly.
• The duties and responsibilities of a slinger/signaller.
• The effects of load movement on the stability of a crane.
• Potential hazards associated with crane operations and how to overcome them.
• The effect of varying angle of multi leg slings and how to calculate their working loads.
• Methods of establishing weights and dimensions of loads.
• Standard code of signals, automatic sage load indicators, crane safety devices.

Knowledge

At the end of the course and through experience the slinger/signaller will know:

• The capabilities of their equipment and any relevant safety precautions necessary for its operation, including the out of service procedure.
• How the crane is operated and controlled, seen from the perspective of the operator.
• The effect of shock loading on the structural being of the crane and its stability.
• The principle of safe slinging, the types and capabilities of lifting gear, security and balance of load.

Course duration

The course duration is 4 days.

Training methods

A balance between practical exercises and classroom based tutorials.

CPCS technical tests

At the end of your course you are required to take the CPCS technical tests.  The CPCS technical test consists of a Theory and Practical Test.  The Theory test will be recorded and the Practical test may be videoed. The Theory test must be achieved to enable you to take the practical test.

What qualification do I get?

The CPCS Red Trained Operator Card which is valid for 2 years.

What can I do next?

Progress to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card which is obtained by demonstrating knowledge and competence through completion of a Level 2 NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Slinger Signaller.

Prerequisite

A valid CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Operatives test must be held (the test is considered valid if it is was taken within 2 years of the CPCS technical  test(s) date). If your test is invalid you will be required to sit the Health, Safety and Environment Operatives test prior to attending the course. You can book your test by visiting the CSCS website.

Please note: The date on your CSCS card (if applicable) and your actual test date can differ greatly, therefore it is important that you do not make the common mistake of estimating your actual test date by your CSCS card expiry date. If you are unsure of your CSCS status, please contact us and we will be able to check this for.