What is CPCS?
The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) is the largest and most highly recognised card scheme for the plant industry which helps to prove workers’ operating skills and health and safety awareness.
Do I need a CPCS Card?
UKCG along with many employers are now insisting that operatives working on their sites must hold a CPCS card. So, if you are working in the construction industry within the UK there is a high chance that you will need a CPCS Card.
What cards are available?
The Red Trained Operator Card which shows that you have been tested to CPCS standards.
The Blue Competent Operator Card which shows your competency in the role.
How do I get a CPCS card?
The CPCS scheme is made up of 3 stages and we can help at every stage to ensure a simple journey through the CPCS scheme.
Step 1 – Red Trained Operator Card
To get this card you need to (in this order):
- Carry out any training necessary to bring you up to the standard required to enable you to pass the CPCS technical test. This can be delivered by one of our qualified trainers.
- Pass the relevant CITB health, safety and environment test.
- Achieve the CPCS theory test and practical test (within six months of the CPCS theory test and within two years of the CITB health, safety and environment test).
On achievement of the CPCS practical test, we will request the CPCS Trained Operator (Red) card on your behalf.
This is a two year card which is non-renewable. You may hold/extend this card whilst you are working towards your SVQ or NVQ in order to gain a Blue Competent Operator Card.
Step 2 – Blue Competent Operator Card
To get this card you need to:
- Pass the relevant CITB health, safety and environment test
- Achieve the CPCS theory test and practical test (within six months of the CPCS theory test and within two years of the CITB health, safety and environment test)
- Provide proof of achievement of the SVQ or NVQ for the category being applied for to the CPCS Test Centre
On achievement of the CPCS practical test, the CPCS test centre will request the competent operator card on your behalf.
On receipt of your first competent operator card, you will be sent a CPCS logbook. The role of the logbook is to record life-long learning and evidence towards the renewal of a competent operator card.
Step 3 – Renewal of the Blue Competent Operator Card
To renew you need to:
- hold a CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card for the category which is within five years of expiry date
- pass the relevant CITB health, safety and environment test within the last two years
- pass the CPCS Renewal test for each category held
- demonstrated on-going practical operating experience through a choice of routes:
- Logbook
- On-Site Assessment
- CPCS Practical test
- SVQ or NVQ