Mobile crane

A mobile crane collapse or a dropped load is one of the most catastrophic and high-profile accidents that can occur on a construction site. Relying on an under-trained operator to judge wind speeds, program load moment indicators, or correctly deploy outriggers on uncompacted ground is a massive, company-ending liability. The NPORS Mobile Crane (N101) course transforms your workforce into elite lifting professionals. It ensures total compliance with BS 7121 (Safe Use of Cranes) and LOLER.

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Description

Course Overview

This comprehensive 10-day training program is the gold standard for heavy lifting compliance, designed for major civil engineering firms, steel erectors, and specialist crane hire fleets.

Delivered either at our 84-acre Huddersfield training facility or directly on your major project site, this intensive course bridges the gap between basic plant operation and advanced structural lifting. Candidates will master the complex onboard computers (RCI/LMI) that prevent the crane from exceeding its Safe Working Load. The training places a massive emphasis on interpreting duty charts, establishing strict exclusion zones, communicating seamlessly with slinger signallers, and safely executing high-risk "blind lifts."

What You Will Learn

Upon successful completion, candidates will be fully competent in:

Legislation & Lift Planning: Understanding legal obligations under PUWER, LOLER, the Work at Height Regulations, and strictly adhering to BS 7121 and CPA documentation.
Pre-Operational Precision: Conducting thorough daily checks on hoisting gears, telescoping booms, ropes, hooks, and all internal limit switches and safety devices.
Setup & Stability: Assessing ground suitability, calculating footprint and bearing pressures, and flawlessly deploying outriggers to ensure absolute stability before any lifting commences.
Advanced Lifting Operations: Programming the Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI), counteracting load swing, performing trial lifts, and safely executing "out-of-sight" lifts using radio protocol and hand signals.
Environmental Management: Identifying overhead power line hazards (GS6), monitoring live wind speeds, and understanding how jib deflection affects the lifting radius.
End of Shift: Safely returning all lifting accessories, fully retracting and securing the telescopic boom, and preparing the machine for road travel.

Course Durations & Eligibility

Novice Course Duration: 10 Days (Allows for the extensive "seat time" required to master precision load placement and complex lifting geometry).
Class Ratio (Novice): Maximum 3 Learners : 1 Instructor : 1 Machine.
Experienced Worker Tests (EWT): A 1-day assessment is available for up to 4 experienced operators who require formal NPORS ticket renewal.
Note: If the mobile crane exceeds 7.5 tonnes and is driven on the public highway, the operator must hold a valid Category C UK driving licence.

Testing & Certification

Candidates must pass an NPORS theoretical examination containing 25 questions (requiring an 80% pass mark). They must also pass a rigorous practical assessment lasting up to 3 hours. The practical test requires candidates to correctly configure the crane, change the falls of rope, simulate a concrete pour, and safely lift and land a load entirely out of sight using only radio/hand signals from a signaller.

Upon successful completion, candidates will receive an NPORS Operator Card and certificate endorsing them for Mobile Crane (N101).