CPCS v NPORS

Train

CPCS v NPORS

Where does it start?

Typically, in constructions, plant refers to heavy work machinery and equipment such s; telehandlers, cranes and excavators. Plant operations fall under The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). These regulations place duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over work equipment. PUWER also places responsibilities on businesses and organisations whose employees use work equipment, whether owned by them or not. PUWER requires that equipment provided for use at work is: • suitable for the intended use • safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected to ensure it is correctly installed and does not subsequently deteriorate • used only by people who have received adequate information, instruction and training • accompanied by suitable health and safety measures, such as protective devices and controls. These will normally include guarding, emergency stop devices, adequate means of isolation from sources of energy, clearly visible markings and warning devices used in accordance with specific requirements, for mobile work equipment and power presses

Some work equipment is subject to other health and safety legislation in addition to PUWER. For example, lifting equipment must also meet the requirements of LOLER, pressure equipment must meet the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations and personal protective equipment must meet the PPE Regulations.

When it comes to information, instruction and training there are a few options, however, predominantly the focus is around both CPC & NPORS.

NPORS

NPORS, also known as National Plant Operators Registration Scheme, was founded back in 1992, it’s one of the UK’s leading accrediting bodies. Back in 2014, NPORS became a UKCG accepted record scheme which means it is recognised as being the equivalent to CPCS.

CPCS

CPCS, also known as Construction Plant Competence Scheme was launched back in 2003. It is owned by a group called NOCN which stands for National Open College Network, they are one of the largest awarding organisations within the construction industry. Both awarding bodies regulate training and testing for operators on plant machinery and it’s a common debate as to which is the better option for workers.

Train

CPCS V NPORS

Both bodies offer 2 main card types;

Trained operator (Red Card)

To achieve this, you must;

Pass the CITB HS&E (Health, Safety and Environment) Test

Pass the relevant Theory Test within 2 years of passing the CITB HS&E Test

Pass the relevant Practical Test within 2 years of passing the CITB HS&E Test as well as within 6 months of passing the relevant Theory Test

You will then be given your red Trained Operator Card which is valid for 2 years. Depending on a delegate’s level of experience they have 2 options here;

Training and testing (number of days training is dependant of machine type)

Testing only

Competent operator (Blue Card)

To achieve this you must;

Pass the CITB HS&E (Health, Safety and Environment) Test

Pass the relevant Theory Test within 2 years of passing the CITB HS&E Test

Pass the relevant Practical Test within 2 years of passing the CITB HS&E Test as well as within 6 months of passing the relevant Theory Test (This is generally a Plant Operations VQ)

You will then be able to apply for your blue Competent Operator Card which is valid for 5 years.

Is there a difference?

On the face of it, no. While CPCS is far more accepted on alot of the major sites across the UK it can also be considerably more expensive, particularly if you are training more than one delegate. What people maybe don’t realise is that in 2014 NPORS became a UKCG accepted record scheme. Which means it is recognised to be the same standard as CPCS. Generally CPCS training/testing must be carried out a registered CPCS test centre (there are a few exceptions to the rule), however, with NPORS if you have the facility to carry out the training/testing onsite it can work out to be substantially more cost-effective when training a group of delegates.

For more information on both CPCS & NPORS;

CPCS Website – https://www.nocnjobcards.org/CPCS/ NPORS Website – https://npors.com/ Training First Safety Website –https://trainingfirstsafety.co.uk/