All about NPORS

There are several different options for training on plant machinery and equipment. We are featuring one of the biggest names in the field, NPORS, in today’s blog. We explain how NPORS and the card scheme work, and how their flexible training can streamline the process of acquiring qualifications for plant disciplines.

What does NPORS stand for?

The National Plant Operators Registration Scheme is known as NPORS. Since 1992, they have accredited and set the standards for a variety of plant and construction site disciplines. From the beginning, the National Plant Operators Registration Scheme has been at the forefront of improving health and safety standards in plant work in the UK and beyond.

How do I get an NPORS card?

A National Plant Operators Registration Scheme-accredited course must be completed before a worker can apply for a trained operator card. With this accredited certificate, you can prove you’ve completed training for your job roles and the equipment you use on the job. In order to operate an overhead crane, for example, you must have completed the National Plant Operators Registration Scheme Overhead Crane training. In this case, you will be able to request a personalized card listing the training you have completed.
A National Plant Operators Registration Scheme certificate is valid for five years from the date of acquisition. Nevertheless, managers can request that certificates only last for three years if they wish their workers to be trained and tested more frequently.
Furthermore, applicants will need to have passed the CITB Health Safety & Environment test (sometimes called the ‘touch test’) within the past two years. A short test that confirms the delegate has the necessary competence in onsite health and safety.

What is an NPORS card?

NPORS cards allow many workers to access the site, use plant equipment, and fulfil their duties. The cards are referred to in a number of ways. NPORS dumper tickets, for instance, may be referred by dumper truck operators.
In most workplaces, supervisors and managers require workers to have National Plant Operators Registration Schemecards or equivalents as evidence of their skills. There are four types of National Plant Operators Registration Scheme cards:

Traditional Card

This National Plant Operators Registration Scheme card is the most basic form. Regardless of the environment or industry they work in, this card is suitable for everyone. The traditional NPORS card does not display the CSCS logo, unlike other National Plant Operators Registration Scheme cards. Using only this card may make it difficult for workers to gain access to construction sites. It is primarily aimed at individuals who work outside of construction in factories, warehouses, and similar environments.

Trained Operator

A trained operator card is issued to labourers who have completed NPORS-accredited training in their field. The cards are valid for two years and are known as ‘red cards’ due to their red writing.

Instructor

This card is issued to those who supervise the training of staff onsite. Advanced knowledge and experience are required. You must apply directly to National Plant Operators Registration Scheme and complete an application package to prove your suitability for the role before you can receive an instructor card.

Competent Operator

Workers with more experience in the industry should apply for this card. In order to apply, workers must have a trained operator card and a relevant (minimum) Level 2 NVQ. Due to the blue writing on the front, they are sometimes called ‘blue cards’.

Do you need CSCS if you have NPORS?

If a worker has National Plant Operators Registration Scheme, he or she does not need CSCS. You do not need a CSCS card or an NVQ to apply for a trained operator National Plant Operators Registration Scheme card. You can apply for an National Plant Operators Registration Scheme card if you hold a valid and relevant National Plant Operators Registration Scheme certificate for your discipline, which you can obtain by taking an National Plant Operators Registration Scheme-certified course.
Cards with the CSCS logo on the front are often referred to as NPORS/CSCS cards. CSCS logos are recognized as industry standards throughout the construction industry. National Plant Operators Registration Scheme cards feature the CSCS logo to prove they meet CSCS standards and ensure employers that the holder is trained to the required level.

Why choose NPORS?

NPORS cards offer workers flexibility, which is one of their main benefits. National Plant Operators Registration Schemecards can be used to demonstrate training for multiple disciplines rather than having separate cards for each piece of equipment or job. By not requiring them to renew a variety of cards every few years, workers can manage their qualifications much easier, saving time and money.
National Plant Operators Registration Scheme courses allow flexibility in assessment and training in addition to flexibility in their card scheme. If time permits, an individual can be tested on several different pieces of equipment in a single day. This saves the organization both time and money. Adapting the theory assessment to include questions specific to the equipment on which they are being tested is also an option. Therefore, the learner will only have to sit one theory test on that day instead of one for each course.
Theory and practical assessments can be completed entirely on site as long as the organization has a suitable working environment. As a result, there is no need to send workers to external testing centers to acquire their certification.

National Plant Operators Registration Scheme training with PGL Midlands:

PGL Midlands offers over 40 different National Plant Operators Registration Scheme courses. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Get Your Training Done with PGL Midlands

What can PGL do for your training needs? Visit our online course index to view our complete list of courses, NVQs, and more! Our team is also available by phone if you call 0121 240 0375 – You can also send us an email at info@pglmidlands.com.