Hi guys

are there any real differences between the 2 plant operators qualifications? I am experiencing more NPORS cards being presented on sites

If I am correct NPORS is cheaper to attain but are the operators trained to the same standards?

I know that NPORS has been accepted by the UKCG as a recognized qualification

Should be, but if you are a subcontractor you may have an issue with the Principal Contractor accepting NPORS. The CITB scheme is a bit ingrained and the levy encourages this.

I found this press release via the NPORS website which would indicate that yes they are of the same caliber http://www.theconstructi...ce-by-recognising-npors.

You can view both CPCS and NPORS Learning Outcomes via there respective websites if you wanted to compare the two systems on a category by category basis.

Thanks everyone for their replies

Fscott - I have reviewed the learning outcomes and to me there are no real differences so it maybe is just a form of snobery why they are not as widely accepted as CPCS

however I have noticed that NPORS seem to qualify excavators 180 deg or 360 deg with no weight limits but CSCS have excavators 360 deg above 10T or below 10 T

I wonder if that is something we need to consider?

I think that both schemes ultimately have their flaws, however in my opinion CPCS is the better scheme.

We only use CPCS for our own people now so am unable to comment on how easy/difficult it is to get the initial NPORS card. But I can tell you, from my experience, it is very easy to renew a NPORS card for 5 years. Where a CPCS renewal involves actual evidence of continuing competence and experience.

I would also like to point out that most CPCS cards we see only have a couple of categories on, but I have seen NPORS cards with 8 (sometimes more) on. Does this suggest they are easier to obtain??

Also, to get a "blue" CPCS card you need to complete a plant based Level 2 NVQ - as far as I can tell this is not so for NPORS.

And finally, as everyone that works in Construction is legally required to be CITB Registered and be assessed for levy payments - why wouldn't you use CPCS and claim back achievement grants?

On a contractual side, I'm not sure you can even insist on everyone having one particular scheme card anyway. Which ever card is held, there is still no guarantee as to an individuals competence on site.