CPCS Renewal Changes for Construction Professionals
The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) has recently introduced a new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) module, replacing the traditional renewal tests. This change marks a significant shift in how construction professionals maintain their CPCS Blue Competent Operator cards. Let’s look at what these modules entail and why the process has changed.
What is a CPCS CPD Module?
The new CPCS CPD modules are designed to ensure that plant operators’ knowledge and skills remain current and relevant. The modules cover a range of topics, including:
- People Plant Interface
- Sustainable Plant Operation
- Eco Operation
- Legislation Changes
- New Technologies in Plant Equipment
The modules are accessible through the NOCN Hub and can be completed on any device with internet access, offering flexibility and convenience for employers and employees alike.
Why the Change?
Accourding to NOCN, the shift from traditional renewal tests to the CPD module was driven by several key factors:
Streamlined Learning: The new CPD module eliminates the need for multiple category-specific tests, providing a more streamlined and cohesive learning experience.
Relevance and Practicality: The CPD module focuses on practical, industry-relevant topics that directly impact daily operations and safety on construction sites.
Flexibility: With the online format, operators can complete the course at their own pace and convenience, reducing downtime and disruption to their work schedules.
Cost-Effectiveness: The CPD module is priced similarly to the previous renewal tests, ensuring that the transition does not impose additional financial burdens on operators or their employers.
Industry Collaboration: The development of the CPD module involved extensive collaboration with industry stakeholders, ensuring that the content is aligned with current industry standards and practices.
How to complete your CPCS Renewal – Competent Operator
The CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card renewal process involves several key steps to ensure operators maintain their qualifications.
- Operators must hold a valid CPCS Blue Card and have passed the relevant health, safety, and environment test within the last two years.
- Complete the CPCS CPD Renewal for the categories they wish to renew. These can be completed at Raeburn Training, or remotely. Once you recieve the link to your personal NOCN Hub portal, you must register within 14-days to activiate the account. The modules can then be completed in your own time. Results take up to 48-hours to be verified and send to candidates.
- Candidates must also demonstrate ongoing practical operating experience through: a digital or paper logbook, on-site assessment, or practical test.
Applications can be submitted online or by mail, and cards are issued for five years from the last expiry date. The process also includes provisions for cards expired up to five years and the phasing out of cards obtained via Industry Accreditation by December 31, 2024.
At Raeburn Training we can support candidates through all stages of the CPCS renewal process, inlcuding hosting candidates at our premises while they complete their modules, providing IT support and guidance.
Conclusion
The introduction of the new CPCS CPD modules represents a forward-thinking approach to professional development in the construction industry. By prioritising relevant, practical learning and offering greater flexibility, this new process ensures that plant operators are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern construction sites.
If you have any questions or need further information about the new CPCS CPD module process, feel free to reach out to our team – [email protected].
