Training Courses for Construction Labourers

It is essential for construction labourers to undertake various training courses labourer to ensure they have the skills and knowledge needed to work safely and effectively in the construction industry. These courses can cover a range of topics, from basic construction skills to specific trades and safety procedures. 

First Aid and CPR courses

Basic first aid and CPR training is essential on construction sites where accidents can happen. It can make a significant difference in emergencies.

Recommended first aid courses

Emergency & Appointed Person courses – for situations when a trained first aider is required by a company’s risk assessment.

Qualified First Aider courses – suitable for those who need training beyond the one-day Emergency First Aid course. Requalification options also available.

Annual Skills Update  - best for those who already hold a valid Emergency First Aid at Work or First Aid at Work qualification.

Working with Heavy Machinery

Depending on their role, some labourers may need to operate heavy machinery like tractors, excavators, or cranes. Training in  heavy equipment operation ensures safety and proficiency.

Recommended heavy machinery/plant courses

CPCS courses - The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) ensures competence on a construction site for those operating plant and machinery. There are a wide range of categories covering various types including cranes, excavators, diggers, tractors and more. The CPCS scheme works in such a way that each category is awarded with the CPCS Red Card (Trained Operator) in that category, and from this the delegate can then work towards the Blue Card (Competent Operator) providing they have a Red Card in the relevant category.

Plant Operator Courses - Separate from CPCS courses, there are other Plant Operator courses such as NVQ courses in Plant Operations (various plant), Traffic Management training and Vehicle Banksman/Marshalling training.

Scaffold and Fall Protection Training

These courses cover the safe assembly and use of scaffolding systems, as well as proper techniques for working at heights.

Recommended scaffolding and working at height training courses

CISRS courses – CISRS (The Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) courses have been developed for all levels of scaffolders from labourers to trainees and all the way to those who wish to move into scaffolding inspection or supervise scaffolding operations. Specific courses within the CISRS portfolio for labourers including Scaffolding Awareness and the COTS (Construction Operative Training Course Specification) course.

IPAF courses – IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) courses are aimed at a wide range of roles within construction, as long as that role involves some element of working with powered access equipment. This can include labourers, operators, managers, supervisors and service technicians. Specific courses aimed at labourers under the I{AF portfolio include IPAF Loading and Unloading and IPAF PAV.

Ladder Safety training – there are various courses available to teach ladder safety, some accredited by the Ladder Association. NPORS courses such as Safe Working at Height are also applicable. 

Asbestos Awareness

Workers who may come into contact with asbestos or lead-based materials should undergo training to recognise and handle these hazardous materials safely. Anyone working with asbestos also needs to adhere to The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, so it is important they have been adequately trained on the legalities around this material.

Recommended asbestos training courses

Asbestos awareness – the most basic course in the Asbestos training line up, Asbestos Awareness is delivered either in person or online, and aims to teach all delegates about asbestos including health hazards, legislation and handling asbestos waste.

Non-Licensed Asbestos Work – for those who work in construction and know their work will disturb asbestos containing materials (ACMs). This includes relevant legislation information, health concerns, dealing with asbestos and reporting procedures.

Construction Management and Leadership

For labourers looking to advance their careers, courses in construction management, project management, or leadership can be beneficial.

Recommended construction management or supervisor courses

CITB SSSTS course - A good place for any labourer looking to advance their skills would be the CITB SSSTS course. This is an ideal foundation course for those who wish to gain a basic understanding of the health and safety responsibilities of junior management in construction. Refresher options also available.

CISRS COTS – for those who wish to pursue their career in scaffolding, the CISRS COTS course is suitable for labourers who wish to move to a trainee scaffolder role. 

CISRS Scaffolder Part 1 – this is the next step for a scaffolding trainee who wishes to progress. They must hold a CISRS Trainee Scaffolder course to apply.

CPCS Blue Card courses – any construction labourer who has an existing CPCS Red Card in any category can work towards the CPCS Blue Card within a set time frame.

Green Building and Sustainability

Courses that include training on sustainable construction practices and green building techniques are becoming increasingly important in the construction industry, as we as a country move towards a more sustainable future. There are a range of courses under the Environmental Management umbrella including courses accredited by NEBOSH, IEMA and CIEH. Other training schemes such as CITB also cover sustainability and protecting the environment as part of their wider training courses. 

Recommended green building and sustainability courses

Environmental Awareness – gives an overall awareness of how humans impact the environment with relevance to the construction industry.

Asbestos Awareness – contains content specific to how asbestos release can impact the environment.

NEBOSH Environmental Awareness at Work Award – whilst this course is suitable or supervisors, managers and team leaders, it is also an entry level course that requires no previous experience in environmental issues associated with the environment. As such, labourers can sit this course to further their knowledge in this area.

These training courses can vary in length and format. Some are offered online, while others are in-person classes or hands-on workshops. Employers often provide or sponsor training for their construction labourers to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge for the job. Additionally, labourers may seek out some of these courses independently to improve their qualifications and career prospects in the construction industry, although there are differences in some training schemes when applying as a private individual as opposed to through a registered construction business.

In addition to those above, we offer a wide range of construction training courses tailored towards not only labourers but also operatives, supervisors, managers, directors and more; please browse the range available with options to book online or contact us with any further questions.