Construction Plant Competence Scheme
CPCS Courses
CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme) is the industry-recognised standard for plant operators and lifting specialists across the UK construction, infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors. A CPCS card is required by principal contractors and is the definitive proof of competence for site access.
What is a CPCS Card?
The CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme) is the UK's leading competence card scheme for plant operators, lifting operations personnel and crane professionals. Recognised throughout the construction, infrastructure, industrial, manufacturing and renewable energy sectors, CPCS qualifications demonstrate that an individual has achieved nationally recognised standards of technical knowledge, practical skill and workplace competence.
The CPCS scheme provides a clear progression pathway for individuals working within lifting operations, from entry-level operator roles through to supervisory and management positions such as Slinger/Signaller, Crane Operator, Crane/Lifting Operations Supervisor and Appointed Person.
Candidates typically begin with the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card before progressing to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card through the completion of a recognised NVQ, demonstrating occupational competence within the workplace.
At RELO Training, we support candidates throughout their entire CPCS journey, from initial training and testing through to NVQ achievement, Blue Card progression and ongoing professional development.
What's Included in a CPCS Course?
Every CPCS course delivered by RELO Training has been designed to provide more than just test preparation — our aim is to develop competent, confident lifting professionals capable of operating safely in real-world environments.
- Professional instruction — delivered by experienced CPCS Trainers, Testers, Assessors and Lifting Operations Specialists
- Theory preparation — covering legislation, lifting operations, equipment knowledge and industry best practice
- Practical training — hands-on exercises designed to develop operational competence and confidence
- CPCS Technical Test — preparation, assessment support and testing by an approved CPCS tester
- RELO Learning Pack — provided to assist with pre-course preparation and revision
- Complimentary RELO Learning Tablet — pre-loaded with course materials, guidance documents and revision resources
- Card application support — guidance on CPCS card applications, renewals and progression routes
- Red to Blue Card progression — support through NVQ achievement and ongoing professional development
Who Are CPCS Courses For?
Our CPCS training programmes are suitable for both new entrants and experienced personnel seeking to enter, develop or progress within the lifting operations industry, including:
- Individuals looking to begin a career within lifting operations
- Slinger/Signallers responsible for directing lifting operations
- Mobile Crane Operators working across construction, infrastructure and industrial projects
- Compact Crane and Overhead Travelling Crane Operators
- Crane/Lifting Operations Supervisors responsible for coordinating lifting activities
- Appointed Persons responsible for planning, managing and controlling lifting operations
- Experienced operators seeking CPCS certification, refresher training or card renewal
- Employers looking to develop workforce competence, improve safety standards and maintain compliance
Legislation & Standards
All RELO Training CPCS courses are developed and delivered in accordance with current legislation, CPCS scheme requirements and industry guidance, including:
- LOLER 1998 — Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations
- PUWER 1998 — Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- BS 7121 Series — Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Cranes
- CPCS Technical Test Specifications — current scheme requirements and assessment standards
Training is delivered by experienced professionals with operational backgrounds across construction, infrastructure, industrial, manufacturing, ports, logistics and renewable energy sectors.
