Telescopic Handler Training Course Overview
The CPCS A17 Telehandler course is for those working with telehandlers in construction. Telehandlers, short for telescopic handlers, are versatile hydraulic lifting units often used in the construction, farming, and agriculture sectors. Completing the course earns the Red CPCS Card and may lead to advanced qualifications. The course ends with practical and theory tests, with the practical test involving various crane operations.
Types of CPCS Telehandler Courses
The A17 telehandler training course is divided into three categories:
A: Industrial Telescopic Handlers
B: Telescopic Handlers up to 9 meters
C: All sizes except for those with 360-degree rotation
With Category C training, you can operate telescopic handlers in Categories A, B, and C, but not those with 360-degree rotation.
Category D, which used to cover all sizes, including those with 360-degree rotation, has been replaced by the A77 course. The A77 course was introduced in 2018 to provide more detailed training on 360-degree slew handlers.
CPCS Course Entry Requirements
To complete your registration, please provide:
- Your current CSCS Card Number
- Your National Insurance Number
- Your Date of Birth
- Your Home Address
You must also complete a valid CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Touch Screen Test within the last two years. A good understanding of English, both written and spoken, is necessary.
What Will You Learn
- Role and responsibilities as a telescopic handler
- Purpose of principal components, controls & terminology
- Manufacturer requirements and relevant regulations/legislation
- Safe operation of telehandler machinery
- Proper procedures to shut down and secure the telescopic equipment
Course Assessment and Certification
Candidates will take both practical and written tests. After successfully passing these tests, they will receive a CPCS Red Trained Operator Card, valid for 2 years.
The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS), established in 2003, promotes safe and standardised working practices within the plant sector. CPCS training courses teach learners the necessary skills and knowledge to operate plant machinery safely and effectively according to UK health and safety regulations.
CPCS Card Categories
CPCS Red Trained Operator Card: This is issued after initial CPCS training.
CPCS Blue Competent Operative Card Card: To upgrade from a Red Card to a Blue Card, candidates must complete a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) relevant to their category. NVQs are available for:
How to Obtain a CPCS Card
The CPCS scheme comprises three stages, and Hurak Learning can assist you throughout the process:
- Red Trained Operator Card: This card confirms core skills, knowledge, and understanding applicable in the workplace. It is awarded upon completing the CPCS Theory and Practical Technical Tests at an accredited test centre.
Candidates must also have passed the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test within the last two years. The Red Card is valid for two years and is non-renewable. To upgrade to a Blue Card, candidates must complete the relevant NVQ within this period.
- Blue Competent Operator Card: To obtain this card, you must upgrade from the Red Card by completing the appropriate NVQ in Plant Operations through the On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) method at your workplace. An assessor will visit you several times to collect evidence of your experience. After reviewing the evidence, your Blue Card will be issued and valid for five years.
- National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs): NVQs are competence-based qualifications achieved in the workplace. They assess your ability to perform a job safely and effectively. To complete an NVQ, candidates must submit work-based evidence and undergo an assessment by observation with an assessor.
