how to take 360 excavator training in the UK360 excavator operators are very much in demand now since that construction is booming across the UK. Talents like you play an ever-important role in many aspects of the projects.

But do you have what it takes to operate this machine?

If not and you’re planning to take the 360 excavator training, glad, we’ve made this article for you.

Here, we look at what requirements you need and the training you must have to go through to become a certified operator, the category you can apply for, and how much money you have to spend in order to complete the course.

The process is straightforward, but it may some time and effort to attain your goal. Without further ado, here are what you must know.

Read on...

How to Take the 360 Excavator Operator Training

  1. Decide what machine you want to have training on - There are three types of machine categories according to CPCS, namely A58. A59A and A59B. Doing so will enable you to match the course with your requirement.

  2. Find a training provider that offers such as a course – the recommended training provider should just be near your location so that you won’t have a hard time going to the site. If you’re looking for a training provider, see the below list, there you might find one you prefer.

  3. Prepare the amount for the tuition – the amount will primarily depend on the skill level you have. The tuition is more costly for novice operators which takes longer to complete the training; if you are an experienced individual, the time it takes to finish the program is much shorter, so the tuition is significantly cheaper as well. If you’re employed, ask your employer if they give grants and funding and if you’re eligible.

  4. Attend the classroom lectures and practical demonstration on-site - If you would like to know more about what does the classroom lectures contain, see below for the topics that are included. While attending the class is important, but you’ll most likely spend much of the time operating the excavator machine in different scenarios and work environments to hone your skills as an operator.

  5. Pass the theoretical and practical tests at the end of the program will enable you to earn the CPCS Trained Operator Card also known as the red card - This is the first step in obtaining a much more complex qualification – that is the blue card which is given to operators with 300 hours of logged experience in the operator of the machine and with successful completion of NVQ Level 2 Assessment. To know more about getting the blue card, see below details.

WATCH This Video To See How the Training Is Done

 

 

Requirements You Need to Have Before Getting Accepted in the Training Program

  • You have must take the Health & Safety Environment touchscreen test within the last 2 years; if you haven’t, then you will be required to take the test prior to getting accepted. If you haven’t completed this and you want to apply for the touch screen test, see below.
  • You must have a good understanding of the English language in both spoken and written.
  • You need to be in good physical and health condition as the nature of the job as an excavator operator is physically demanding.
  • While some people may tell that you need to have the experience to attend the training, which is not true. You can take training even you’re an absolute beginner.

The Training Course Contains the Following Topics and Subjects

  • The prevailing government legislations and code of practice – this is important so that students get updated with the most current policies.
  • Learning the operational controls to know how to safely operate the 360 excavator in different types of work conditions.
  • Shutdown procedures are important so that operators know how to properly execute shutdown at the end of the shift.
  • Equipment inspection and basic troubleshooting and other simple servicing procedures.
  • Different attachments that the machines can equip with; this includes proper attaching and removing. Attachment can be added to extend the purpose of the excavator.
  • Understanding the different capabilities and limitations of the equipment. Students will know the capacity of the machine they’re operating, where they can be utilized and the weight limit the machine can carry.
  • The proper procedure in breaking concrete and demolishing structure since these two tasks are where you going to get involved in the future.
  • Maneuvering the tracked and wheeled excavator in obstacles so that students can have a feel of how to operate these two types of machines.
  • Proper lifting operations and placing the materials into trucks and hoppers, operating in confined space, hazard identification, grading, and leveling.
  • Understanding of the manufacturer’s handbook so that when something goes wrong with the machines students have something to refer to.
  • Performance of pre-operation checks and procedures in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation and legislative requirement.
  • Interpretation of technical plans, drawings, and understanding of laser levels. This is an important topic to discuss since most of the time you’ll work with the site engineer on site.
  • Duties and responsibilities of the operator – so that everyone knows what are their roles in the job when getting into it.
  • Proper loading a dump truck, trailer, or container.
  • Advocacy to site and equipment safety.

How Much Does 360 Excavator Training Cost in the UK?

As previously mentioned, the cost involved in taking the 360 excavator operator training will primarily depend on the skill level you have; a novice operator training is longer to complete so expect that it is much expensive compared to experienced operator training.

The second factor that comes into play affecting how much you would pay in the training is the capacity of the machine you want to be trained on. For excavators with 10 tonnes and below capacity, the tuition is cheaper compared to the machine with 10 tonnes and above capacity.

The cost will also vary as there are three (3) CPCS training categories you can choose from. For beginners, you can take the A58 (below 10 tonnes), A59A (Tracked 360 Excavator Above 10 Tonnes), or the A59B (Wheeled 360 Excavator Above 10 Tonnes).

We cannot give the exact amount as the prices vary depending on the training provider. It is recommended to check first the prices before you make the final decision of choosing a provider.

See Video How the CPCS A58 and A59 Tests are Conducted

 

 

 

Earning Your CPCS Blue Card

If you want to get this qualification, for your convenience, you have to find an accredited CPCS testing center near your location and take the test there.

  • Before everything else, you must have in your possession a red card (trained operator card) as this is a prerequisite in the application process. See above on how to take the training and earn this credential.

  • Provide evidence of achievement of NVQ level 2 to the testing center.

  • Pass the CPCS theory test. This is where studying comes in, if you had attended the school prior to testing, you are more likely to pass the theory test. (Taking of the theory test must happen within 2 years of the CITB HSE test).

  • Pass the CPCS practical test. You have to satisfy the assessor about your performance in the operation of the equipment in order for you to pass this test. (The practical test must happen within 6 months of the theory test and within 2 years of the CITB HSE test).

Once you’ve attained this credential, you are now called “competent operator. This shows employers that you’re capable of operating the 360 excavator and that you have the knowledge to do job. What does that mean is you are more likely to be offered a job and be given better pay.

How to Apply for Health & Safety Environment Touchscreen Test

Passing the HSE touchscreen test is not only important for the application of the blue card but also in employment as employers have assurance that the candidates they’re going to hire are safe performing their job on site. If you plan to take this test, here’s what to do:

Coordinate with a training provider of your choice so that they can arrange your schedule and submit the corresponding requirements on your behalf. Or you can do it yourself, visit the CSCS website for more information. 

If you do the application for the test yourself, find an approved CITB test center in your area. They have locations across the UK, so I am sure you won’t have a hard time searching for one near you. The test is computer-based on a touch screen hence the name. for more information call this number Tel: 0344 994 4488.

To book, there are three ways – you can do it online, over the phone or by post. In online booking, you have to register your name first. Go to this resource for the registration process.  If you which to book via phone, you can contact this number 0344 994 4488. Prior to doing the booking via phone, you have to be sure that you have the necessary information, please see below. And if you opted to book by post, download this form first.  fill it up, and send it to this address PO Box 1286, Warrington, WA1 9GN, the form can also be sent via fax 0300 200 1177.

Information you need when booking a test:

  • The category of test you want to take
  • In what test center you plan to take the test
  • Your home address
  • Method you want to pay
  • CITB registration, if you have previous have one

How to Become a 360 Excavator Operator

  • The first thing you have to do is to acquire the knowledge and practical skills in the operation of 360 excavator. You can do this by attending a training program which spans for shorter period of time or by being apprentice which takes a longer period.

  • The second thing to do is get a CPCS card which involves passing the tests. The knowledge you’ve gained from attending a program or completing an apprenticeship will prepare you to pass the tests in getting the CPCS card.

  • If you want to work in the construction, you’ll a CSCS card. Having this card show that you have proper skills and qualifications to work in the hectic environment of construction. Please take note that the CSCS card is not a legal requirement but most employers do prefer job candidates to have such credential in order to get accepted for the job.

Training Providers in the UK that Offers 360 Excavator Training Course

If you’re looking for a training provider, here are some you can contact with:

  • R.C.P. Training
    Fir Tree Farm, Ockwells Road, Cox Green, Maidenhead Sl6 3AA,
    Contact: 0162 878 8251

  • CPCS Construction and Plant Training Services LTD
    TEL: 01234 604151, MOB: 0777 18 12 418, EMAIL: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Total Training Company (UK) Ltd.
    Flat 1, St. Joseph’s Court, Trindle Road, Dudley, West Midlands, England, DY2 7AU
    Tel: 0121 706 0851, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Central Construction Training Ltd.
    Unit 17 & Compound, Norton Canes Business Park, Norton Green Lane, Cannock, West Midlands, WS11 9SS
    01543 455 400, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • 3B Training Ltd
    Stratus House, Swan Lane, Hindley Green WN2 4EY
    01942597333, Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Plant Testing Ltd
    Barn Owl Roost, Astwith, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S45 8AN
    Unit 199, Boughton Industrial Estate, Boughton, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9LD
    Tel: 07740 932 307

  • Industrial Training Services Ltd
    Unit 1 Enterprise Way, Wickford, Essex, SS11 8DH
    Call 01268 560 400

  • Mentor Training Solutions - Chesterfield
    Millennium Way, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S41 8ND
    Phone: 01246 386900

  • MV & Sons EE UK training services LTD
    Unit 11, Liberator way, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7HN
    Mobile +44 7891 508 131
    Landline: +44 1473 415259

  • Trans Plant Mastertrain
    The Matford Centre, Marsh Barton, Exeter, Devon, EX2 8FD
    Tel: 01392 42 62 42

  • Wow Training
    15A London Road, LL652NE
    Phone: 01407 764182; email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Do You Need a License to Become a 360 Excavator Operator?

Before answering this question, let’s first grasp the difference between a license and accreditation. License is a compulsory requirement for the job while accreditation is not, but in order to boost chance, you have to be accredited.

The right term that needs to be used here is not “license” but “card”. People use them interchangeably so no wonder confusion arises.

The license, or should I say, the card, is given to students by the training provider upon successful completion of theoretical and practical exams at the end of the training – this is what they referred to as the CPCS red card.

In order to work on a construction site, you need to have the CPCS blue card which takes longer and stricter to complete. The very basic you need in order to earn the blue is a 300-hour of practical experience on the machine and NVQ level 2 assessment.

The completion of a training program allows you to prepare to pass the corresponding tests in getting the CPCS blue card.

The blue card is renewal after five (5) years.

To Make a Conclusion

With the sheer number of training providers all across the UK, I am sure you won’t have a hard time preparing to become a 360 excavator operator. The initial training that these providers offer will significantly help you to attain the CPCS red and blue card.

Those are the sought-after credentials that employers prefer from their workforce in order to work in construction. With that credentials, you are assured of having better employment standing, and possibly you’ll be given a better wage if you got those.

We wish you good luck in your career! Be safe and take care always!


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