CPCS Tower Crane (A04C) - Novice

The CPCS Tower Crane course specifically tailored to Pedestrian Operated Tower Cranes, which was previously known as A63, has been updated and is now covered under the A04C endorsement. This change occurred because the A04 Tower Crane category was reviewed, and the new endorsement A04C Trolley Jib – Remote Controlled was introduced, superseding the older A63A and A63B categories. As of November 25, 2015, the A63 designation has been retired from the scheme.

The course is designed for individuals who have little to no experience operating pedestrian operated tower cranes. Here's a breakdown of what the course generally covers:

1. Safety and Operational Training: Participants learn how to operate pedestrian operated tower cranes safely and effectively, emphasising accident prevention and safety regulations.
2. Practical Skills: The training includes hands-on practice in operating the crane, which involves understanding the control mechanisms and the correct operation techniques.
3. Endorsements:
   • A: Trolley Jib - Cab Controlled: Training on operating a crane where the jib, or the part of the crane that extends horizontally, is controlled from a cab.
   • B: Luffing Jib - Cab Controlled: Focuses on cranes with a jib that can move up and down (luff), controlled from a cab.
   • C: Trolley Jib - Remote Controlled: Covers cranes where the trolley jib is operated remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to operate from a distance.

By completing this course, participants receive certification that acknowledges their competence in operating pedestrian operated tower cranes, making them eligible to work in environments that require this specific skill set.

What can I expect from this CPCS Tower Crane operator course?

The CPCS Tower Crane operator course is comprehensive and focuses on providing participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for operating tower cranes safely and effectively. Here’s what you can expect to learn and practice during this course:

• Safe and Productive Operation: You’ll learn to operate the crane in a manner that maximises productivity while adhering to safety standards.
• Signal Recognition: Understanding and responding correctly to signals for controlling crane operations is crucial. These signals are standardised and essential for coordinating with ground or supervisory staff.
• Load Assessment: Determining whether a load is within the crane's capacity is vital to prevent overloading and potential accidents.
• Routine Maintenance and Adjustments: You’ll be taught how to perform minor maintenance and adjustments to ensure the crane operates smoothly and safely.
• Equipment Capabilities and Safety Precautions: The course covers the crane's capabilities and critical safety precautions, including procedures for putting the crane out of service properly.
• Operation of Safety Indicators: Learning to operate safe-load indicators and overload warning devices helps prevent accidents and ensures the crane is not operating beyond its safe operational limits.
• Understanding Working Radius: The course will help you understand how the crane’s working radius affects its lifting capacity, which is crucial for planning lifts correctly.
• Counterweight Management: You'll learn how to secure, check, and maintain counterweights essential for the crane’s stability.
• Impact of Shock Loading: Recognizing the effects of shock loading on the crane’s structural strength and stability is part of the training.
• Safe Slinging Principles: The course will teach you the principles of safe slinging, including understanding the types, capacities of lifting gear, and how to ensure load security and balance.
• Compliance with Regulations: You will learn about the statutory regulations concerning lifting equipment and understand the legal responsibilities of a crane operator.

By completing the CPCS Tower Crane operator course, you will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to operate tower cranes efficiently, within legal and safety guidelines, thus enhancing your qualifications for roles requiring this expertise in construction and related sectors.

Are there any entry requirements for the CPCS Tower Crane training course?

For those interested in enrolling in the CPCS Tower Crane training course, there are specific entry requirements to ensure that participants are prepared for the comprehensive content and safety responsibilities associated with crane operation. Here are the primary entry requirements:

1. Health, Safety and Environment Test: Participants must have passed the CITB Operatives Health, Safety, and Environment Test within the last two years prior to the start date of the course. This test is crucial as it ensures that all operators have a fundamental understanding of safe working practices and health and safety regulations on construction sites.
2. Language Proficiency: A good understanding of spoken and written English is required. This is important because the training will involve both theoretical and practical elements that require clear communication and comprehension of safety instructions and operational procedures.

These prerequisites are designed to ensure that all participants are on a level playing field in terms of basic safety knowledge and communication skills, which are critical for the safe and effective operation of tower cranes.

How is the CPCS Tower Crane Operator training course assessed?

The CPCS Tower Crane Operator training course is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience, culminating in a formal assessment to verify the participants' competence in operating tower cranes. Here’s how the assessment process typically unfolds:

Training Duration and Structure

• Four Days of Learning: The initial four days are dedicated to both theoretical and practical training. The theoretical part involves classroom-based teaching, covering safety regulations, operational techniques, and understanding crane mechanics and capabilities. The practical exercises give participants hands-on experience in operating a tower crane under supervised conditions.

Assessment Day

• One Day Assessment: The fifth day of the course is reserved for the assessment, which is conducted through the CPCS technical tests. These tests are designed to evaluate a candidate's knowledge and ability to operate a tower crane safely and effectively.

Components of the CPCS Technical Tests

1. Theory Test: This written or oral test assesses the participant’s understanding of all aspects of tower crane operations, including safety, load dynamics, and legal responsibilities. Candidates must demonstrate a solid understanding of the theoretical content covered during the training.
2. Practical Test: The practical examination requires the candidate to operate the crane in various scenarios that they might encounter in a real-world setting. This test assesses the operator's proficiency in handling the crane, including setup, operation, responding to signals, and executing specific tasks safely and efficiently.

The CPCS Tower Crane Operator course certification process is straightforward:

1. Red CPCS Trained Operator Card: When you pass the CPCS technical tests, you get a Red Card valid for two years.
2. Gaining Experience: Use this time to gain practical experience with tower cranes on job sites.
3. NVQ Level 2 - Plant Operations: Complete this qualification, focusing on preparing and operating tower cranes, within the two years.
4. Blue CPCS Competence Card: After getting the NVQ, you can apply for the Blue Card, which shows you are a skilled operator and is valid for five years, renewable.