The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) is a skills card scheme for the plant sector of the construction and allied industries. It provides proof of the skills and knowledge of plant operators and related occupations What is cpcs?.
To obtain or renew a CPCS card How to get a cpcs card, you need to pass both theory tests and practical tests for each category or group of categories you want to apply for.
You also need to meet certain health and safety requirements Requirements for cpcs health and safety and demonstrate continued professional development How to renew cpcs card.
What are CPCS plant categories?
CPCS plant categories are different types of plant equipment or machinery that are used in construction and allied industries. They range from cranes, excavators, dumpers, loaders, rollers, hoists, graders, crushers, screeners and more. Each category has a specific code and endorsement that indicates its type and function.
There are currently 64 categories of plant and related occupations covered by the CPCS scheme. You can find a list of all the categories on the ACOP Group website or on the NOCN Job Cards website.
You can also download free support materials such as question banks or smartphone apps from NOCN Job Cards website to help you prepare for your theory tests.
How do you choose which CPCS plant categories to apply for?
You should choose which CPCS plant categories to apply for based on your current or desired role in the construction industry. You should also consider your level of experience and competence in operating different types of plant equipment or machinery.
To help you decide which categories to apply for, you can use NOCN’s Renewal Test Tool which helps you identify which tests you need to take based on your current card status. You can also consult with your employer or an accredited training provider who can advise you on which categories are suitable for your job role Cpcs course advantages.
How do you book your CPCS theory tests and practical tests?
You can book your CPCS theory tests and practical tests through an approved NOCN Job Cards Test Centre. The cost varies depending on the number of categories you want to take. You can take up to five categories in one slot which costs £30 per slot plus additional fees depending on equipment type.
To book your tests, you need to contact an approved test Centre directly by phone or email. You can find a list of test center’s on NOCN Job Cards website. You will need to provide some personal details such as your name, date of birth, address.
and contact details such as your name, date of birth, address and phone number. You will also need to provide your CPCS registration number if you have one.
What is the format of CPCS theory tests and practical tests?
CPCS theory tests are one-to-one verbal assessments that cover essential knowledge related to each plant category or group of categories you want to apply for. The questions are based on industry standards and expectations of experienced plant operators.
The format of CPCS theory tests is as follows:
- Test time: 30 minutes (concessional time for candidates who require additional learning support or the use of interpreters)
- Number of questions: Varies depending on the category (average of 70 questions per category)
- Type of questions: Multiple choice or short answer
- Mode of delivery: Audio recorded in a quiet room with a tester
- Passing score: 80% or more
CPCS practical tests are hands-on assessments that cover essential skills related to each plant category or group of categories you want to apply for.
The tasks are based on industry standards and expectations of experienced plant operators.
The format of CPCS practical tests is as follows:
- Test time: Varies depending on the category (average of 90 minutes per category)
- Number of tasks: Varies depending on the category (average of 10 tasks per category)
- Type of tasks: Practical operations using different types of plant equipment or machinery
- Mode of delivery: Observed by a tester at an approved test site
- Passing score: No major faults and no more than four minor faults
How can you prepare for CPCS theory tests and practical tests?
To prepare for CPCS theory tests and practical tests, you should undergo adequate training from an accredited training provider who will teach you how to operate different types of plant equipment or machinery according to industry standards Cpcs scheme operator training.
Everyone should also use various online resources such as mock tests, revision materials or smartphone apps to help you revise for your theory tests.
You can find a list of accredited training providers on NOCN Job Cards website or on other online platforms such as UK Training Course Search.
You should choose a training provider that is approved by NOCN Job Cards and has a good reputation and track record.
Conclusion
CPCS plant categories are different types of plant equipment or machinery that are used in construction and allied industries. They require different levels of knowledge and skills to operate safely and efficiently.
To obtain or renew a CPCS card for each category or group of categories you want to apply for.
you need to pass both theory tests and practical tests that cover essential knowledge and skills related to each category.
You also need to meet certain health and safety requirements Requirements for cpcs health and safety and demonstrate continued professional development How to renew cpcs card.
To prepare for CPCS theory tests and practical tests. you should undergo adequate training from an accredited training provider.
who will teach you how to operate different types of plant equipment or machinery according to industry standards Cpcs scheme operator training.
You should also use various online resources such as mock tests, revision materials or smartphone apps to help you revise for your theory tests.
By following these steps, you can achieve a high level of competence in operating different types of plant equipment or machinery in construction and become a skilled plant operator with a valid CPCS card or CPCS roles and duties.
