What does the new CPCS A78 Vacuum Excavator Training and Assessments mean to you?

Well, first of is it the latest and becoming the most recognised vacuum excavator operative competency awarded via CPCS.

Force One sat on the CITB board for over two years discussing the requirements for the new A78 A-F category to ensure absolute full cover for training, theory and practical assessments.

By having fully trained and competent operatives within the workforce, it does, of course build the reputation of a great company, but to get there, the operatives have to prove their competency to operate a 26 tonne / 32 tone vacuum excavator, work within safe working practices and adhere to all HS&E recommendations and regulations.

Force One have a dedicated 5-day training course to offer to complete novice candidates that are new to the industry, followed up by an in-depth theory and practical assessment . A two-day training course can be offered for the more experienced candidates

Having achieved the CPCS A78 (A-F) category covering:

• A78 (A) – Trailer – Manual Arm
• A78 (B) – Trailer – Semi-Powered Arm
• A78 (C) – Non-LGV – Manual Arm
• A78 (D) – Non-LGV Semi-Powered Arm
• A78 (E) – LGV – Semi-Powered Arm
• A78 (F) – LGV – Fully Powered Arm

the vacuum excavator operative will show his/her competence by receiving a red trained operative CPCS card, followed up within two years to have a NVQ qualification within the sector, to then gain the blue competent operative card.

Before any of the Force One Vacuum Excavator Operatives are able to even think about achieving their A78 competence they have to have experience as a second person on site, prove their ability to adhere to health and safety requirements, maintain Force One company standards and have had HGV driver training, followed up by passing the HGV 2 driving test.

Force One has always appreciated the importance of training and can demonstrate to all of our clients that any vacuum excavator operator attending site will have had dedicated training and passed the A78 (F) CPCS category.

Each operative will be able to demonstrate to the client best working practice, continue to provide excellent results and observe best working guidelines set by the CITB board.

Having a dedicated training and test centre on-site, it has enabled Force One to gain the competence for all vacuum excavator operatives and Force One can now offer the facility to external clients.

Force One has a dedicated training centre with an onsite testing area where operatives have to pass an in-depth theory and practical assessment to gain the A78 competency.

Why put your company at risk?

Use only competent operatives that can fully demonstrate their understanding of safe working practices. A small investment on training and assessments can save thousands if you have avoided cable strikes or damage on-site.

Best working practices = Safe working