Overview
From 31st July CITB has launched new plant training standards and grants. The new standards will introduce standardised plant training and testing requirements across the construction industry.
The first set of new standards has been developed in collaboration with industry working groups, made up of employers, providers and federations. These new standards represent a real change in the way that plant training and testing is delivered, streamlining the system and making grants more accessible.
What’s changing?
The new standards will ensure safe, consistent and high-quality plant operations throughout England, Scotland and Wales.
The first phase of the changes will see new standards introduced for the following:
- Excavator 360, above 10 tonnes (tracked)
- Forward tipping dumper (wheeled)
- Rear tipping dumper/dump truck: articulated chassis (all sizes)
- Ride on roller
- Telescopic handler: all sizes excluding 360 slew
- Industrial forklift
- Plant and Vehicle Marshaller
- Slinger, Signaller: all types, all duties.
Alongside the new standards, the grant rates for plant training and tests will also be changed and improved. Currently, three smaller grants are available for practical tests, theory tests and short course training, which employers can apply in different ways. Under the new changes, a single grant will be available for all CITB-registered employers.
What this means for employers
The new standards affect initially eight of the most commonly used plant categories. In order to be grant eligible, the training and testing for these eight categories will have to:
- Meet CITB’s new standards
- Lead to a card-carrying the CSCS logo, and
- Be delivered by an Approved Training Organisation (ATO).
As of 31 July, you will need to use an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) and provide your CITB registration number, so that the ATO can apply for the grant on your behalf. The option to apply for the grants manually will not be available for these standards.
Any other plant training that is separate from the new standards will remain eligible for grant and you will apply for the grant in the same way you currently apply.
If you require any additional information on New Plant Standards, grant claims and funding available through the CITB then please contact Workforce Skills Support Ltd on 01623 287830