27 August 2021

The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) card is a skills card for those who work with plant machinery in the construction industry. Possessing one proves you can carry out your role, and operate plant machinery, safely and competently.

What are CPCS cards?

You may have heard of Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards – if not, check out our guide to the various CSCS cards here. CPCS cards work in a similar way to CSCS cards, but serve a different function. They are a widely recognised way of displaying that workers have completed the necessary qualifications and gained significant real-world work experience to be able to perform their job safely and effectively.

The knowledge and competence required is in defined categories, these are professional construction and plant competence, and health and safety requirements and procedures in plant operation. With the CPCS card system in place, employers can be confident that their staff members have the necessary skills and experience to carry out the tasks required within the context of plant operation.

The necessary skills and knowledge are maintained over time, as cardholders are required to stay up to date on industry developments through periodic refresher courses.

When do you need a CPCS card?

If you’re working with plant machinery, especially if you’re a plant operator, you will likely be required to hold a valid CPCS card.

Like CSCS cards, it isn’t a legal requirement, but most plant operators on the Major Contractors Group (MCG) and National Contractors Federation (NCF) have to be CPCS card holders in order to be considered for these positions. Additionally, employers within BuildUK, one of the largest construction federations, also require plant operators to hold valid CPCS cards.

What are the different types of CPCS card?

There are three types of card within the CPCS scheme: the trained operator card, the competent operator card and the tester card.

Each of these cards requires passing theoretical and practical tests which examine your knowledge and experience. Additionally, this should be demonstrated through ongoing documentation, such as a professional logbook to keep track of what you learn.

CPCS trained operator card

The trained operator card, also known as the red card, is the first step of accreditation. It confirms a level of core skills, knowledge and understanding that can be applied to the workplace, showing you have been tested to CPCS standards.

This is ideal for those at the beginning of their career in plant operation. It enables you to work in your chosen field (under supervision) while working towards the relevant NVQ or other vocational qualification.

Before applying for the card, you will need to undergo some training in your area of plant machinery or construction site equipment. Usually, your employer will organise this.

How do I get a CPCS red card?

Once you have completed some training, you will need to complete the below (in order):

  • Pass the relevant CITB Health, Safety and Environment test
  • Achieve the CPCS theory test (within two years of the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test)
  • Achieve the CPCS practical test (within six months of the CPCS theory test and within two years of the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test).

The card is issued for a non-renewable two-year period.

For more information on the CPCS trained operator card, click here.

CPCS competent operator card

The competent operator card, also known as the blue card, is the next step after the red card and demonstrates further competency in your role. Those with a blue card can work independently on plant machinery. As the red card runs out after two years (extensions are available in certain circumstances), it is important to begin working towards to the blue card as soon as possible.

To be eligible for a blue card, you must complete a relevant National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). NVQs are competence based and are achieved in the workplace – they demonstrate your ability at work by recognising the skills, knowledge, ability, training and experience required to perform a job safely and in an effective manner.

One of the most common NVQs taken is the Level 2 in Plant Operations, which also offer specialist routes such as cranes and specialist lifting.

How do I get a CPCS blue card?

On completion of the NVQ, you will need to complete the below (in order):

  • Provide proof of achievement of the NVQ for the category being applied for to the CPCS Test Centre
  • Pass the relevant CITB Health, Safety and Environment test
  • Achieve the CPCS theory test (within two years of the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test)
  • Achieve the CPCS practical test (within six months of the CPCS theory test and within two years of the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test).

The card is issued for a five-year period and is renewable.

For more information on the CPCS competent operator card, click here.

CPCS tester card

The most advanced card is the CPCS tester card. A CPCS tester assesses the knowledge, understanding and performance of those applying for CPCS trained operator and competent operator cards.

It is for the most experienced of plant operators, working in CPCS test centres to supervise, deliver and provide written feedback on theory tests, practical tests and onsite assessments.

How do I get a CPCS tester card?

Firstly, you will need to achieve a Record of Category Experience (RoE) from NOCN, the awarding body of CPCS cards.

Once this has been approved, you will need to:

  • Hold an advanced health and safety qualification, such as the CITB Site Managers Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS)
  • Hold a valid in date first aid certificate
  • Pass the Managers and Professionals (MAP) CITB Health, Safety and Environment test
  • Achieve the CPCS Advanced theory test (within two years of the HS&E MAP test)
  • Achieved the CPCS Advanced practical test (within six months of theory test and 2 years of the HS&E MAP test)
  • Attend and pass the CPCS Tester Course.

You can find further information here.

More information

That's an overview of what CPCS cards are, why you may need one and the different types. 

If you're interested in a career in plant operations, check out our job descriptions of a plant operator, plant mechanic, plant inspector, plant manager, plant and mechanical engineer and plant support services coordinator.

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