Operating construction plant without the correct competency card is illegal under CDM 2015 and puts everyone on site at risk. The CPCS and NPORS card schemes verify that operators have been trained and assessed as competent for specific machine categories. This talk explains the competency requirements, card types, and the responsibilities of both operators and supervisors.
Key Hazards
Fatal incidents caused by untrained operators losing control of plant
Prosecution for allowing incompetent persons to operate site machinery
Property damage and service strikes from poorly trained operators
Insurance invalidation when unqualified operators are involved in incidents
Control Measures
Verify every plant operator holds a valid CPCS or NPORS card for the specific machine category.
Check the card expiry date and endorsements before allowing anyone to operate plant on site.
Ensure operators with a Red Trained Operator card are supervised by a Blue Competent Operator.
Record all operator competency checks in the site plant register with card numbers and expiry dates.
Do not allow any person to operate plant they are not carded for, even for short movements.
Arrange refresher training and card renewal before expiry to avoid lapses in competency cover.
Brief operators on site-specific hazards, traffic routes, and emergency procedures before they start.
Report any concerns about operator competency to the site manager immediately.
Ensure agency and subcontractor operators undergo the same competency verification on arrival.
Remember
Every plant operator must hold a valid CPCS or NPORS card for the specific machine they operate
Check card type, expiry date, and machine category before allowing anyone to operate plant
Red card holders must be supervised at all times by a Blue Competent Operator card holder
Never allow anyone to operate plant they are not carded for, even for brief movements
Agency and subcontractor operators must undergo the same competency check on arrival
Applicable Legislation: CDM 2015 · PUWER 1998 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · MHSWR 1999