Description

CPCS A61 Appointed Person Course

Get the CPCS Red Card you need to act as an Appointed Person for lifting operations, legally and confidently, on UK construction sites.

Group bookings and on-site delivery available. Contact us for a quote — our team typically responds within one working day.

About the Course

This CPCS A61 Appointed Person course is aimed at supervisors and managers with responsibility for lifting operations. It gives you a clear understanding of the Appointed Person’s duties and how to fulfil them, along with the skills to interpret and apply Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 of BS 7121 Safe Use of Cranes.

As the person responsible for planning and authorising lifts, the Appointed Person plays a critical role in keeping crane and lifting operations safe and compliant.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for:

• Supervisors and managers responsible for lifting operations
• Those planning to take on the Appointed Person role for crane operations
• Individuals requiring formal CPCS certification for lift planning and supervision
• Anyone progressing into a lifting operations management role

Key Course Information

• Accreditation: CPCS
• Duration: 5 Days
• Test-Only Option: Available for experienced candidates
• Card Validity: 2 Years
• CITB Grant: Available
• Finance: Flexible payment options available
• Location: Nationwide

Entry Requirements

• A valid Managers CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) touch-screen test passed within the last 2 years
• Sufficient experience of cranes to meet the requirements specified in BS 7121 Safe Use of Cranes
• A good working understanding of spoken and written English

What You Will Learn

• Observe regulations and Codes of Practice
• Follow safe systems of work, including method statements
• Take personal responsibility as the Appointed Person
• Describe different types of cranes and associated terminology
• Understand crane documentation
• Understand crane stability, duty charts, and safety devices
• Appreciate the specific considerations of tower cranes
• Apply BS 7121 Safe Use of Cranes Guidelines, Sections 1-4
• Recognise the role and responsibilities of the Appointed Person
• Plan a lift

Assessment

• Four (4) days of  classroom-based and practical training
• One (1) day of CPCS theory and practical testing

Please note: Candidates taking the test‑only route should already have substantial, recent on‑site experience working as an appointed person. We strongly advise gaining practical experience before attempting the CPCS tests, as the assessment requires confident, competent operation in real working conditions.

Certification

Candidates who pass will be issued with the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card for the A61 Appointed Person category, valid for 2 years.

CITB Grant Funding

If you’re an employer registered with the CITB, you may be able to claim grant funding to offset the cost of this course. Grants are paid per candidate and can significantly reduce the investment for your business.

Our team can walk you through the eligibility criteria and help you submit your application. Visit the CITB grants page for current rates, or call us to discuss.

Progression – Upgrading to the Blue Card

To progress to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card, you’ll need:

• Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts
• Valid Managers Health, Safety & Environment Touchscreen Test.

This demonstrates long-term competency and is required by many principal contractors for ongoing site access. We can advise on NVQ pathways when you’re ready.

Official CPCS Resources

For full details on the CPCS A61 Appointed Person tests, including the practice theory questions and practical test specification, please visit the official CPCS (NOCN Job Cards) website:

• CPCS A61 Theory Test Practice Questions
• CPCS A61 Practical Test Specification

Download Course Information

Download the full course PDF for a full overview of the CPCS A61 Appointed Person course, which you can save or share with your employer.

Download CPCS A61 Appointed Person Course PDF

Ready to Book?

Check availability, get a quote, or secure your place on the next CPCS A61 Appointed Person course. Our team will get back to you within one working day.