This is a comprehensive training course designed to give students the knowledge to be able to pass their CPCS A61 tests.

A good level of communication and reading and writing in English is required, while a good understanding of mathematics is essential.

Course Aims

The CPCS A61 course is suitable for supervisors and managers who have responsibility for lifting operations.

The CPCS A61 course will give students an understanding of the Appointed Person’s responsibilities and how to fulfil them.

It will also provide students with the skills and ability to interpret and apply sections 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the BS 7121 Safe Use of Cranes guidelines.

If you already hold the CPCS Code A40 Slinger/Signaller qualification, on completion of this course you will also achieve the CPCS Code A62 Crane Supervisor qualification.

On successful completion of the CPCS Technical tests you will receive the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card.

Entry requirements

  • Students on the CPCS A61 course should have enough experience of cranes to meet the requirements specified in British Standard 7121 Safe Use of Cranes.
  • You must have passed a Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test for managerial and professional persons no more than two (2) years before the course, or CPCS Test.
  • Students should possess a good understanding of spoken and written English. Please don’t hesitate to contact us, if you have any concerns in this area.

Teaching and Assessment

  • Four (4) Days Training – Classroom-based and Practical Training
  • One (1) Day – CPCS Testing

Course Content

On completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the duties and responsibilities of an Appointed Person, a Crane Supervisor, a Crane Operator, a Slinger/Signaller, a Crane Erector, and a maintenance personnel
  • State the basic requirements of legislation, regulations, and codes of practice that relate to all types of lifting duties
  • Identify the requirements for a basic, standard and complex lift
  • State the requirements to be followed when planning the lifting of people
  • Explain the additional requirements needed for loads to be lifted from height
  • Describe the notification, liaising and reporting procedures to all statutory, authority, and utility bodies when affected by the lifting operation, including, for example, works, railways, highways, airfields, etc.
  • Identify the different types of cranes, including crawler and lattice boom, and explain their lifting capabilities and limitations for different lifting operations
  • Explain what maintenance, inspections, thorough examination and testing requirements are needed for lifting equipment and accessories
  • Describe the setting up, erection, levelling and dismantling requirements needed for different types of lifting equipment and lifts
  • Calculate the lifting equipment point loadings/outrigger loadings, spreader mat types and sizes from given information
  • Explain the function and use off, and use information provided by rate capacity indicators (RCI) and anti-collision systems
  • Select the correct crane for the type of lift to be carried out, and utilise accessories including, swing-aways, stingers, powered boom extensions, extra ballast, plus duty charts, range diagrams and specification sheets
  • List the different types of lifting accessories used to complete a successful lift and explain typical applications. Identify and explain relevant information relating to the different types of lifting accessories, including, for example, markings, certificates and thorough examination reports, etc.
  • Calculate sling sizes and angles
  • Explain slinging techniques for given loads, including balanced, unbalanced and loose
  • Specify appropriate lifting accessories for given types of loads
  • Identify weights and centres of gravity for different types of loads
  • Describe and demonstrate the different types of communication methods used for lifting purposes
  • State the need to complete a reflective report following a typical lifting operation
  • Identify potential proximity and underground hazards from given plans and drawings
  • Identify and plan an area, with exclusion zones, for different, given lifting operations incorporating safe access/egress routes for before, during and after the lift
  • State requirements that allow safe site access and egress for typical lifting equipment
  • Construct a safe system of work by carrying out a risk assessment, method statement and lift plan using given information
  • Prepare and explain pre-prepared lift plan information to others involved in a lifting operation, including, for example, a Crane Supervisor, Crane Operator, Slinger/Signaller etc.
  • Specify the positioning of a crane, load and other limiting factors in relation to fixed objects
  • Evaluate and explain how environmental factors and the surrounding area, external to the lift zone, can affect the planned lifting operation

Outcome

On successful completion of the Theory & Practical tests students are awarded the Red Trained Operators Card, which is valid for two (2) years.

Questions about our training services?

Speak to a member of our team today, we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

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