CPCS or NPORS: Which is best?
According to HSE regulations, employers must prove that workers are sufficiently competent to carry out their job roles. As a result, many employers insist that plant operators hold relevant qualifications under one of the following accreditation schemes:
But with two options, it can be tough to choose which is best for you. In this article, we’ll help you decide between CPCS and NPORS by outlining their key differences.
3 Key Differences Between CPCS and NPORS
1. Recognition
CPCS is the leading plant qualification scheme in the UK and was previously the only choice when it came to gaining your qualifications. Most employers would require plant operators to hold a CPCS card to gain access on-site.
Although NPORS never used to be as widely recognised by employers, in recent years, the accreditation has gained greater popularity. Nowadays, it’s rarer for an employer not to accept an NPORS card.
When choosing between CPCS or NPORS, it’s important to consider which accreditation is more widely recognised and likely to guarantee work. Therefore, while both accreditation schemes are well-recognised across UK construction sites, it may be a good idea to ask any potential employers which accreditation they prefer.
2. Cost
Generally, CPCS courses are priced based on: course price x number of candidates.
Generally, this price includes:
- Theory & practical training
- Theory & practical testing
- CPCS card application
This price will include training, testing and card application, however, there may be additional charges such as machine hire. Since CPCS course costs are all-inclusive, these courses usually work out cheaper for individuals and smaller groups.
Generally, NPORS courses are priced based on: standard day rate charge + additional expenses.
Generally, additional expenses will include:
- Test registration fees
- Mileage to site
- Machine hire
Since NPORS courses are charged at a standard day rate charge, the more candidates that you book, the more that you get for your money! This means that NPORS often works out cheaper for businesses wanting to get larger groups of workers qualified.
3. Location
According to scheme rules, CPCS courses must take place at an accredited test centre. This is great if you have a test centre local to you or if you aren’t currently working on-site. However, this option may not be convenient for everyone.
Alternatively, NPORS courses take place on your work site. This can be more convenient if you don’t have a test centre local to you. It also benefits you as training takes place using your machinery – which you are potentially already used to operating.
4. Bonus: Card Expiry
CPCS and NPORS first issue candidates with ‘Trained Operator Cards’:
CPCS Trained Operator Cards – valid for 2 years.
NPORS Trained Operator Cards – valid for 2 years.
These cards can then be upgraded to ‘Competent Operator Cards’:
CPCS Competent Operator Cards – valid for 5 years.
NPORS Competent Operator Cards – valid for 5 years.
In conclusion, CPCS and NPORS are both widely recognised schemes that will prove your occupational competency as a plant operator. Your choice between the two will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences – particularly with cost and location.
However, our general guidance is that CPCS is best suited to individuals while NPORS is better suited to larger groups and businesses.
Here at BAM Construction Training, we offer a range of CPCS and NPORS training courses. Whichever scheme you decide is best for you, we’re here to help you get qualified!
Still not sure which is best for you? Get in touch for expert advice.
