Excavator 180°

The Excavator 180° (commonly known as a Backhoe Loader or JCB) is the ultimate multi-purpose machine on any construction site, combining the capabilities of a front loader and a rear-mounted excavator. Our NPORS Excavator 180° (N201) course provides operators with the versatile skills needed to safely manoeuvre, load, and excavate using both ends of the machine while maintaining strict compliance with PUWER and LOLER regulations

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Description

Course Overview

Operating a 180° excavator requires high-level coordination and an in-depth understanding of machine stability, especially when switching between loader and backhoe duties. This comprehensive course ensures operators can safely manage the machine's unique weight distribution and use stabilizer legs effectively to prevent tip-overs.

Candidates will receive hands-on training for both the front multipurpose bucket and the rear backhoe. The course covers everything from navigating narrow site restrictions and chicanes to executing complex trenching tasks and loading high-sided vehicles. Candidates will also master the safe use of quick hitch systems and various attachments, ensuring they are prepared for the diverse demands of a modern site.

What You Will Learn

Upon successful completion, candidates will be competent in:

Machine Mechanics: Identifying major components including power units, hydraulic systems, stabilizers, and boom/dipper assemblies.
Pre-Operational Safety: Conducting statutory daily inspections of wheels, tracks, hydraulics, engine compartments, and safety devices.
Safe Maneuvering: Traveling safely over varying terrain, up and down gradients, and through narrow chicanes in both forward and reverse.
Excavation Excellence: Setting up the machine for excavation, digging trenches to specific depths and lengths (e.g., 6m long, 1m deep), and squaring up trench ends.
Loading & Backfilling: Safely loading spoil into dumpers or hoppers using both the front and rear buckets, and reinstating excavated areas to their original state.
Attachment Management: Safely removing, attaching, and verifying the security of buckets and other attachments using quick hitch systems.
Environmental & Site Awareness: Identifying underground services and overhead power lines, and managing noise, dust, and fuel/oil spills.

Course Durations & Eligibility

Novice Duration: 10 Days.
Existing Untrained Operator: Duration varies by experience.
Refresher / Experienced Worker Tests (EWT): 1 Day.
Class Ratio: Maximum 3 Learners : 1 Instructor : 1 Machine.

Testing & Certification

Candidates must pass a theoretical multiple-choice exam (80% pass mark) and a rigorous 2-hour 45-minute practical assessment. The practical test requires candidates to demonstrate safe setup, maneuvering through a chicane, digging a square trench to specification, and successfully loading a vehicle to capacity.

Upon successful completion, candidates will receive an NPORS card and certificate endorsing them for Excavator 180° (N201).