CITB Plant Training Standards

Second phase of Plant Training Standards to launch in June 2025

CITB continues to revolutionise plant training across the construction industry, with phase two of its new standards set to launch in June 2025. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Plant Sector Representative Organisation (PSRO), aims to standardise training and reflect the increasing responsibilities of plant operators.

Following the updates to phase one standards in December 2024, the second tranche will introduce 19 new standards covering a wide range of plant categories, including excavators, dump trucks, and telescopic handlers. These standards have been carefully crafted with input from industry working groups, comprising employers, training providers, and federations, to ensure operators receive expert-led training that makes them work-ready and competent.

Phase Two Standards

• Additional Excavators: Training for 360° and 180° machines, covering operations below and above 10 tonnes, lifting operations, and suspended loads. Click here to view Excavator courses.
• Additional Dump Trucks: Standards for articulated chassis up to 15 tonnes, and rigid chassis across multiple weight classes, including tracked and wheeled configurations. Click here to view Dump Truck courses.
• Additional Telescopic Handlers: Training for industrial, suspended loads (non-rough terrain), models up to 9 metres, and 360° slewing capabilities. Click here to view Telehandler courses.
• Additional Forward Tipping Dumpers: Tracked machine training to meet specific operational needs. Click here to view Dumper courses.

This industry-wide collaboration ensures that training aligns with the practical demands of the construction sector while delivering a return on investment for employers. Competent operators not only enhance safety and productivity on-site but also open up opportunities for organisations to access additional CITB Achievement Grants.

Impact on Achievement Grants CITB Achievement Grants offer employers financial rewards for workers completing recognised qualifications and standards. By integrating the updated plant training standards into their workforce development plans, employers can significantly increase their eligibility for these grants.

Every successfully completed standard under the new training regime adds to an employer’s ability to claim Achievement Grants, providing much-needed financial support for further workforce upskilling. This helps businesses offset training costs while building a skilled and compliant workforce.

For plant operators, these new standards represent an opportunity to bolster their qualifications, making them more employable in a competitive market. Employers, meanwhile, benefit from a better-trained team and reduced overheads thanks to grant support.

Next Steps for Employers With phase two launching in June, now is the time for employers to:

• Review their training schedules and incorporate the new standards.
• Plan their workforce development strategy to maximise Achievement Grant eligibility.
• Work with Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) such as TUTS to streamline the training and grant-application process.

CITB and PSRO’s continued efforts to modernise and standardise training promise a brighter, safer, and more efficient future for the construction industry. The enhanced standards and grant opportunities mark a significant step forward in equipping the workforce with the skills necessary to meet evolving industry demands.