Appointed Person - Lifting Operations

This training equips candidates to competently plan and oversee lifting operations, ensuring compliance with industry regulations such as LOLER, PUWER, and BS 7121.

The Appointed Person – Lifting Operations course is designed to provide candidates with the advanced skills, knowledge, and confidence required to plan, manage, and take full responsibility for lifting operations on construction and industrial sites.

This training ensures compliance with LOLER, PUWER, the Lifting Operations Code of Practice (BS 7121), and CDM Regulations, supporting candidates in achieving competence in planning complex lifting activities.

While no formal qualifications are required, candidates must:

Hold a valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) touchscreen test passed within the last 2 years.

Have a good understanding of spoken and written English.

Provide a valid form of ID

Possess relevant industry experience in lifting operations (e.g. as a Crane Supervisor or Slinger/Signaller)

Crystal&Co will carry out a brief initial assessment to confirm the suitability of the course for each candidate before enrolment.
The length of training is tailored to each candidate’s experience level:

Novice or Limited Experience: Candidates new to lift planning and management will attend the full training programme, which includes comprehensive practical and theory-based instruction.

Experienced Operators: Candidates with previous experience in lift planning and management who require a formal qualification may opt for our condensed training, focused on refreshing key skills and preparing for CPCS testing.
Training and testing take place at our site in Chelmsford, Essex.

Transport options:

Drive directly to the site, or

Choose free pickup from one of the following stations:
• Barking Station
• Ilford Station
• Epping Station
(Pickup must be arranged at the time of booking.)
Tutors

All instructors are accredited professionals with extensive experience in lift planning, crane coordination, and safety-critical roles.

Teaching

Training includes classroom-based learning, lift plan development exercises, and theoretical case studies.

Emphasis is placed on legal compliance, risk assessment, and the production of method statements and lifting plans.

Assessment:

Candidates will complete both theory and practical assessments, including the production of a lift plan.

Successful completion leads to the Red Trained Operator Card, valid for 2 years.

This can be upgraded to a Blue Competence Card by completing the relevant Level 5 NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts.
Key learning outcomes include:

Legal and regulatory framework governing lifting operations – LOLER, PUWER, CDM, BS 7121

The roles and responsibilities of the Appointed Person

Selecting cranes, lifting accessories, and determining lifting configurations

Producing thorough and compliant lift plans and risk assessments

Calculating load weights, radii, ground bearing pressures, and crane capacities

Managing site and environmental constraints

Communicating with crane supervisors, operators, and slinger/signallers

Emergency procedures and contingency planning
Certification
Candidates who pass both assessments will receive the Red Trained Operator Card. This card confirms that the holder has demonstrated core operational skills and understanding.

Renewal
The Red Card cannot be renewed. To continue using the machine on site beyond the two-year validity:

Complete a relevant Level 5 NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts.

Apply for the Blue Competence Card
Accredited by CPCS and NPORS – Industry-recognised qualification

Customised Training Duration – Full course for beginners, condensed option for experienced operators

Progression Path – Start your route to the CPCS Blue Competence Card

Experienced Trainers – Delivered by accredited professionals

Real-World Site Conditions – Training includes live site lift scenarios and method statement exercises

Flexible Access – Free station pickups from Barking, Ilford, or Epping

Compliant and Up to Date – Aligned with current legislation and best practices in lifting operations
Once you have successfully completed this training and obtained the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card, the next step is to:

Register for the Level 5 NVQ in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts– This is required to upgrade your Red Card to the Blue Competence Card, which demonstrates full competence and is valid for 5 years.

Important: You must complete the NVQ and upgrade to the Blue Card within 2 years of receiving your Red Card — the Red Card cannot be renewed.

Crystal&Co can support you through your NVQ registration, assessment, and upgrade process, ensuring a smooth transition from trained to fully competent Appointed Person.

Begin your training today—reach out and let’s make it happen!

This training is available via CPCS and NPORS. Contact us for pricing information.