The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) scheme was launched in 2003 and is now the main standard for plant operators, proving that they have the necessary qualifications and experience, and have passed the Health and Safety Test to operate plant safely.

The scheme is managed by a board of employers and members of industry bodies such as the Construction Confederation, the Construction Plant-Hire Association (CPA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). It is also part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).

How to become an accredited training provider

As a pre-condition of accreditation, applicants must first gain approval as an assessment centre for the Intermediate Certificate (IC) or Scottish Progression Award (SPA) in Specialised Plant and Machinery Operations (SPMO).

An organisation or employer wishing to become a CPCS accredited training provider must then contact the CPCS department.

Further assistance on training, assessing and testing plant operatives to standards approved by the CPCS Management Committee is available in the CPCS Policies and Standards document.

Additional information on CPCS including obtaining and renewing cards is available in the CPCS Scheme booklet.