How to apply for a NPORS card

The NPORS card is issued by the National Plant Operators Registration Scheme (NPORS) and stands as proof that the bearer has successfully completed and passed a NPORS accredited training programme.

There are 2 types of NPORS card: the Operator card and the NPORS/CSCS Construction Plant Operator Card. The (Traditional) Operator card is for those in sectors away from construction, and the NPORS/CSCS Construction Operator card is for construction operatives only.

Traditional Operator cards

There are two types of Trained Operator cards; Red and Blue.

·         Red – This is the Trained Operator card; it lasts for 2 years and is non-renewable. People who hold this card must complete the NVQ relevant to their category of training during the 2 years the Red card is valid for, in order to progress to the Blue card.

·         Blue – the Blue card indicates a “Competent Operator” and is for plant machine operators who have completed the NVQ for their relevant category. It is valid for 5 years but can be renewed.

A traditional NPORS operator card does not bear the CSCS logo but can be endorsed with the Health, Safety and Environment (H&SE) test logo (unless the operator does not have this, in which case it will not be on the card).

Examples of courses for the type include:

·         Safe Working at Height

·         Manual Handling

·         Safe Use of Steps and Ladders

NPORS/CSCS Construction Operator card

The NPORS/CSCS Construction Operator card is issued in line with Construction Leadership Council (CLC) requirements and will display the CSCS logo.

NPORS CSCS cards are also available as Red and Blue but focus only on construction roles. Examples of courses in this category include:

·         Construction Site Safety Awareness

·         Crane Supervisor

·         Slinger Signaller

Applying for a NPORS cards

To apply for either type of NPORS card, delegates must follow these steps:

Step 1 – complete the relevant NPORS course and pass the assessment(s)

Step 2 - receive issued Red card (2 year validity)

Step 3 – study for the relevant NVQ in order to achieve the Blue Competent Operator card

Step 4 – Before renewing the Blue card, operators must complete their NPORS issued operator logbook.

Please note that for either type of NPORS card, new entrants who have never passed any NPORS courses will automatically start on Red.

Relevant links:

·         Full range of NPORS courses: https://www.bookmycourse.co.uk/courses/npors_training_and_assessment_576/

·         NPORS Training Explained: https://www.bookmycourse.co.uk/articles/npors_training_explained_14437/

·         NPORS Home: https://npors.com/