NPORS Training Explained

The National Plant Operators Registration Scheme (NPORS) is an equivalent to the CPCS card scheme. NPORS provides the same accredited training as CPCS as well as verification and registration, similarly to the way that EUSR PLUS does. Although NPORS is not new, it is quickly becoming one of the most well-known accredited training programmes in the UK.

How do NPORS training schemes work?

NPORS will require you to undertake both a practical and theory test on your chosen machinery or apparatus. When you have passed these tests successfully, you will receive the Trained Operator Card (red) which is comparable to the CPCS red card.

The trained operator card acquired from NPORS will be valid for 2 years and can then be upgraded to the blue NPORS Competent Operator card via an NVQ. It is recommended to start training on the NPORS blue card around 6 months before your NPORS red card expires.

The NPORS blue card assessment will be completed on site with the machine you are using. Throughout the examination, the assessor will create a portfolio to group together evidence of you using the machinery through videos, photos and a discussion which will focus on your experience using that specific machinery.

When the portfolio is complete it will be sent off to be verified. If you are successful, you will receive a blue NPORS Competent Operator card which will then be valid for an additional 5 years. NPORS will also upgrade your blue NPORS card if you successfully complete a Level 2 NVQ in Plant Operations which involves an onsite evaluation to understand if you are capable and competent when using the machines.

What is the difference between CPCS and NPORS?

Although NPORS and CPCS are somewhat the same, NPORS can be more flexible - the NPORS training scheme can be tailored to the working environment of your company.

NPORS assessments and training can take place on location allowing you to feel comfortable in a familiar environment. This is also beneficial because you will not need to leave for examination purposes in the way you will for the CPCS alternative. However, if needed, training can be completed at specified NPORS plant training facilities.

Below are some of the various NPORS categories available:

• NPORS Course (N001) - Industrial Counterbalance Lift Truck Course
• NPORS Course (N003) - Reach Truck Course
• NPORS Course (N009) - Rough Terrain Lift Truck Course
• NPORS Course (N010) - Telescopic Handler Course
• NPORS Course (N202) - Excavator 360 Course
• NPORS Course (N204) - Forward Tipping Dumper Course
• NPORS Course (N209) - Loading Shovel Course
• NPORS Course (N214) - Road Roller Course
• NPORS Course (N402) - Slinger Signaller Course
• NPORS Course (N403) - Vehicle Banksman/Marshall Course

CPCS is still considered by some in the construction industry as the superior training scheme and certain sites or companies might request that their plant operators hold a CPCS card. You should take this into account when you are contemplating the work you will be doing and your future within the construction industry. However, NPORS is becoming more widely known, and the majority of distinguished building companies will accept a NPORS card as an alternative to a CPCS card.