Hoist
This training prepares candidates to operate construction hoists safely and efficiently, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and lifting legislation while meeting industry standards on construction sites.
The Hoist course is designed to provide candidates with the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to operate construction hoists safely and efficiently on site.
This training ensures compliance with current health, safety, and lifting operations legislation, and supports candidates in achieving competence in hoist operations in line with industry standards.
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
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 with little or no experience in operating hoists will attend the full training programme, which includes comprehensive practical and theory-based instruction.
Experienced Operators: Candidates with previous experience in slinging and signalling operations 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 site experience in hoist operations and safety-critical roles
Teaching
Training combines classroom-based theoretical learning with practical exercises in real hoist operation scenarios.
Emphasis is placed on safe operation, pre-use checks, communication, and compliance with regulations
Assessment:
Candidates will complete both theory and practical assessments.
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 2 NVQ in Hoist Operations.
Key learning outcomes include:
Understanding of hoist operation roles and responsibilities under LOLER and PUWER regulations
Safe positioning, loading, and movement of materials and personnel
Conducting pre-use checks, inspections, and shutdown procedures
Identification and control of risks associated with hoist use
Effective communication with site personnel and plant coordinators
Operation of different types of hoists (e.g. passenger/goods hoists, goods-only hoists)
Responding to faults, emergencies, and control system malfunctions
Working in coordination with site supervisors and lifting teams
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 2 NVQ in Hoist Operations.
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 takes place at our Chelmsford plant training site
Flexible Access – Free station pickups from Barking, Ilford, or Epping
Compliant and Up to Date – Meets legal and health & safety requirements for plant operators
Once you have successfully completed this training and obtained the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card, the next step is to:
Register for the Level 2 NVQ in Hoist Operations– 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 operator.
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.
