CPCS is a scheme designed to apply common standards of work practice for all construction plant operators. Here are 5 reasons why every construction plant operator in the UK should be CPCS trained - https://www.bamct.co.uk

1. 5 Reasons Why Every Plant
Operator Should Be CPCS Trained
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2. Introduction
CPCS (Construction Plant Competence
Scheme) is an industry standard identification
card that an individual can posses to
demonstrate that they have the necessary
knowledge and competence to work as a
plant operator in the construction industry.
Established in 2003 at the request of
employers, the scheme is designed to apply
common standards of work practice for all
plant operators. Here are 5 reasons why every
plant operator in the UK should be CPCS
trained:

3. 1. Health & Safety
One of the elements associated with CPCS is
health and safety awareness. In 2016/17 the
construction industry accounted for the most
fatal injuries to workers in the UK. These
injuries included being struck by a moving
vehicle or object, being trapped by something
overturning or collapsing, and being in
contact with moving machinery.
Any operative looking to achieve or renew
their CPCS card must have a valid health,
safety and environment test, within the past 2
years. This element of the scheme, combined
with demonstrating competence during the
theoretical and practical assessments,
demonstrates to employers that you are safe
and competent worker.

4. 2. Proof of Skills
The UK infrastructure plan, an increase in demand
for new housing, and the importance of embracing
new development methods are combining to create
demand for higher skilled workers. It is estimated
that after Brexit, the UK will lose 175,000 EU
workers – or 8% of the sectors workforce. As a
result, it is now vital for the sector to attract a new
generation of workers to ensure the continued
growth and development of the industry.
CPCS training provides workers with the knowledge
and skills to safely and competently operate plant
machinery. Operatives who achieve a Trained
Operator card (also known as the CPCS Red Card)
have demonstrated a level of core skills, knowledge
and understanding that can be applied in the
workplace.

5. 3. Future Qualifications
Annual employment growth is projected to
average 1.1% a year and by 2020 the
construction workforce is expected to be
around 2.73 million. Over 230,000 new
workers are needed in the next five years
which creates opportunities for trained
operatives to extend their qualifications to
increase earning capacity and improve job
prospects.
A construction plant operator can upgrade
their CPCS Trained Operator card (Red Card)
to a CPCS Competent Operator card (Blue
Card) by demonstrating higher levels of
health, safety and environment awareness,
and advanced operating abilities, evidenced
by an NVQ. This provides operatives with an
opportunity to personally develop their skills

6. 4. Earning Capacity
The hourly rate for plant operators in the UK ranges
from £8 - £30ph, with the average salary for Plant
Operators currently at £32,143 (£16.72 per hour). A
construction plant operator who can demonstrate
competence in more than one CPCS category of
plant, or demonstrate more practical working
experience on one CPCS category of plant, is likely
to earn a higher hourly rate of pay than a plant
operator without a CPCS card.

7. 5. Better Job Prospects
When it comes to skills and labour the UK is
facing a shortfall to keep up with demand.
This shortfall is likely to increase competition
in the recruitment sector and provide skilled
plant operators with greater opportunities to
find better jobs with higher levels of job
security and higher rates of pay.

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