360 Excavator Above 10 Tonnes (Lifting Operations) Training

Industry-standard qualification for using excavators above 10 tonnes for lifting operations. Prove your competence in crane-mode work, operate safely with loads, and build towards your Blue Card.

DURATION
1-2 Days
PRICE FROM
£300
RATIO
1:1
CERTIFICATION
CPCS Red Card

Who Should Take This Course?

Whether you already hold A59 and want to add lifting operations, or need formal certification for excavator lifting work, the A59C covers using excavators above 10 tonnes as lifting equipment.

A59 Excavator Operators Upgrading

Existing excavator operators adding lifting operations capability for expanded versatility on infrastructure projects

Steel Erection and Piling Contractors

Operating excavators in crane mode for handling piles, sheet piling, casing, and structural steel components

Civil Engineering Specialists

Lifting precast concrete units, large pipes, culverts, and infrastructure components on major projects

Marine and Port Construction

Handling heavy marine components, piles, and materials in dock, harbor, and coastal construction work

Major Infrastructure Projects

Working on motorways, railways, and utilities requiring excavators configured for lifting duties

Employers

Training multiple operators? We accommodate group bookings and work around project timelines where possible

Available Course Dates

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What You'll Learn

This isn't vague promises—here's what actually happens during your training, broken down by theory and practical components.

Excavator Lifting Configuration & Lifting Accessories & Rigging

  • Understanding excavator crane mode and stability when configured for lifting
  • Quick hitch removal and lifting attachment installation procedures
  • Hook blocks, swivels, and master links for excavator lifting operations
  • Load radius charts specific to excavators in lifting configuration
  • Calculating available lifting capacity vs excavation bucket mode
  • Counterweight considerations and machine stability during lifts
  • Outrigger and stabilizer deployment for lifting operations (if equipped)
  • Pre-lifting inspections for excavator and lifting attachment systems
  • Chain slings, wire rope slings, and webbing slings for heavy loads
  • Understanding Safe Working Load (SWL) and Working Load Limit (WLL) markings
  • Shackle ratings, grades, and correct pin installation for heavy lifts
  • Spreader beams and lifting frames for large precast units
  • Inspection procedures and rejection criteria for lifting gear
  • LOLER examination requirements and certification compliance
  • Sling angle effects on working loads with heavy components
  • Storage, maintenance, and handling of heavy-duty lifting equipment

Heavy Lifting Operations

  • Slinging techniques for precast concrete units, pipes, and steel sections
  • Managing pendulum effect and load swing with heavy suspended loads
  • Piling operations: handling sheet piles, driven piles, and casing tubes
  • Precision placement of large components onto foundations or supports
  • Tandem lifting coordination when using multiple excavators
  • Operating on uneven ground and slopes with suspended loads
  • Emergency procedures for stuck loads or equipment failure during lifts
  • Weather limitations: wind speed restrictions for excavator lifting

Lift Planning & Safety

  • LOLER 1998 compliance for excavator lifting operations
  • Understanding appointed person roles and lift plan requirements
  • Method statements and risk assessments for complex lifts
  • Exclusion zones appropriate to excavator reach and load size
  • Banksman and slinger coordination using standard signals
  • Ground bearing pressure assessment with heavy lifting loads
  • Overhead hazards: power lines, structures, and clearance calculations
  • Defect reporting and out-of-service procedures for lifting equipment

Course Options & Duration

Training routes tailored to your experience and operational background

Route Duration Who It's For What's Included
Novice (New to Excavators) 3 Days Complete beginners learning excavator operation and lifting together Foundation excavator training, lifting operations introduction, rigging and slinging, theory and practical tests
A59 Holder Adding Lifting 2 Days Current A59 excavator operators gaining lifting operations endorsement Lifting configuration training, rigging techniques, crane-mode operations, lifting-specific theory and practical tests
Experienced Lifting Operator 1 Day Currently perform excavator lifting, need formal certification Skills validation, LOLER compliance training, test preparation, theory and practical tests
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Not Sure Which Route Is Right For You?

We offer a free assessment service to help determine the best training path based on your experience and goals.

Discuss Your Training Needs

Entry Requirements

Prerequisites for certification

Basic Requirements

  • Age: Must be at least 16 years old
  • Fitness: Should have reasonable fitness levels and no medical conditions that would prevent safe machine operation

HS&E Test Requirement

Before taking the CPCS technical tests, you must pass the Health, Safety & Environment test.

  • CITB HS&E Test - Operatives level
  • NOCN Operatives HS&E Test

Valid for 2 years, this can be completed at our centre during your visit!

What to Bring

  • Valid photo ID (in date passport or driving licence)
  • Safety boots or Safety Wellies in winter
  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • We can provide Hi-Vis and hard hat if necessary

Tests & Assessment

Comprehensive evaluation of competence

Theory Test

40 question examination conducted by a CPCS appointed tester.

  • 40 questions covering excavator operation and lifting operations safety
  • Excavator crane mode configuration and stability principles
  • Lifting accessories identification, SWL/WLL ratings, and inspection
  • LOLER 1998 regulations and appointed person responsibilities
  • Sling angle calculations and their effect on working loads
  • Load radius charts and capacity deductions for lifting mode
  • Rigging techniques for precast units, piles, and structural components
  • Pass mark: Typically 80% or higher
  • Duration: 30 minutes

Practical Test

Hands-on assessment demonstrating safe excavator lifting operations demonstrating safe operation.

  • Pre-use inspection of excavator and lifting attachment systems
  • Inspection of lifting accessories: chains, slings, shackles, and hooks
  • Correct fitting and securing of lifting attachment to excavator
  • Load assessment and selection of appropriate rigging equipment
  • Demonstrating correct slinging techniques for various heavy loads
  • Lifting and moving suspended loads with load control and stability
  • Precision placement of heavy components onto designated positions
  • Communication with slingers and banksmen using standard signals
  • Managing load swing and pendulum effect during lifts
  • Post-lift inspections and equipment checks

After You Pass

CPCS Red Card (Trained Operator)

  • CPCS Red Card (Trained Operator) valid for 2 years from issue
  • Permits operation of 360 excavators above 10 tonnes with lifting operations endorsement
  • Covers both standard excavation and crane-mode lifting duties
  • Industry-recognized for piling, steel erection, and infrastructure lifting contracts
  • Must upgrade to Blue Card within 2-year validity period
  • Blue Card Upgrade: Accumulate on-site experience with excavator lifting operations, Complete NVQ Level 2 in Plant Operations (Excavator with lifting endorsement), Include lifting operations evidence in NVQ portfolio, CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card valid 5 years renewable

Why Choose Operator Training?

Professional training with over 20 years of plant operator expertise in Staffordshire

Heavy Excavator Lifting Fleet

Train on large excavators configured for lifting operations with proper lifting attachments and certified rigging equipment.

Comprehensive Lifting Gear Inventory

Access to wide range of certified heavy-duty lifting accessories: chains, wire rope, shackles, spreader beams, and hooks.

Experienced Lifting Instructors

Learn from trainers with backgrounds in piling, steel erection, and appointed person roles on major infrastructure projects.

1:1 Ratio Training

Dedicated one-on-one instruction ensures extensive hands-on practice with rigging and lifting techniques.

Realistic Lifting Scenarios

Practice with heavy loads simulating real operations: precast units, piles, steel sections, and infrastructure components.

LOLER Compliance Training

Thorough understanding of lifting regulations, examination requirements, and legal operator responsibilities.

Course Pricing

Competitive pricing for professional certification

Test-Only From £300

Complete certification package

What's Included:

  • CPCS verbal theory test
  • CPCS practical test
  • CPCS Red card application
💰

CITB Levy Grant Funding

Eligible companies can receive substantial grants to cover training costs. Contact us to check your eligibility and find out how much you could save.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about 360 Excavator Above 10 Tonnes (Lifting Operations) training

What's the difference between A59C lifting operations and standard A59 excavator certification?

Standard A59 certification covers excavator operation for digging, loading, grading, and general earthmoving. A59C is an endorsement that adds crane-mode lifting operations capability. The key differences are:

  • Equipment Configuration: A59C involves removing excavator bucket and fitting lifting attachments with hooks
  • Operations Type: Suspending loads with chains, slings, and shackles rather than carrying in bucket
  • Regulations: LOLER 1998 applies to A59C lifting operations, requiring lift planning and appointed person oversight
  • Applications: A59C enables piling work, steel erection, precast placement, and infrastructure component handling
  • Training Focus: Rigging techniques, load charts, sling angles, and lifting safety protocols

Under LOLER regulations, using an excavator to suspend loads with hooks and slings without A59C certification is illegal and extremely dangerous.

Can I use any excavator for lifting operations with A59C?

No, not all excavators are suitable or legally permitted for lifting operations. To perform lifting duties, an excavator must:

  • Manufacturer Approval: Be specifically approved by manufacturer for lifting operations (check operator's manual)
  • Lifting Attachment: Have proper quick-hitch adapter and certified lifting hook block installed
  • Load Charts: Have manufacturer-provided load radius charts for lifting configuration
  • LOLER Examination: Undergo thorough examination and certification as lifting equipment every 6-12 months
  • Appropriate Capacity: Have sufficient lifting capacity for intended loads (excavators above 10 tonnes typically required for heavy lifts)

Many construction excavators are NOT rated for lifting operations. Using non-approved excavators for suspended loads violates LOLER regulations and creates serious stability and safety risks.

Your employer or hire company must provide confirmation that specific excavators are approved and certified for lifting operations before you use them with A59C certification.

What projects specifically require A59C excavator lifting operations?

A59C certification is essential for numerous infrastructure and construction sectors:

  • Piling Contractors: Handling driven piles, sheet piling, casing tubes, and pile equipment on foundation projects
  • Bridge Construction: Placing precast bridge beams, concrete sections, and structural steel components
  • Utilities Infrastructure: Installing large diameter pipes, culverts, manholes, and heavy service components
  • Marine Construction: Seawall sheet piling, dock construction, and harbor infrastructure work
  • Precast Concrete: Positioning precast units, floor slabs, wall panels, and modular concrete structures
  • Steel Erection: Supporting steel frame construction with excavator lifting of columns and beams
  • Major Civils: Motorway construction, railway projects, and large-scale infrastructure requiring heavy component handling

These projects typically offer higher day rates due to specialist equipment and certification requirements:

  • A59 standard: £18-£22 per hour
  • A59C with lifting: £22-£28 per hour
  • Specialist piling/marine work: £25-£32+ per hour

The A59C endorsement significantly enhances employment prospects on major infrastructure and specialist construction projects.

How long does the A59C course take?

Beginners (no excavator or lifting experience): 3 days

A59 holders adding lifting endorsement: 2 days

Experienced lifting operators needing certification: 1 day. If you already hold A59, the lifting endorsement adds 2 days focused specifically on crane-mode operations and rigging.

Do I need standard A59 before doing A59C?

Not technically—you can train for A59C from scratch as a complete beginner. However, most candidates either:

  • Already hold A59 and are adding the lifting endorsement (most common)
  • Train for both A59 and A59C together (3-day combined course)

If you know you'll be doing lifting operations, it makes sense to get A59C from the start rather than returning later to add it.

Can I use my Red Card to work on site immediately?

Yes. The CPCS Red Card is valid for site work as soon as you receive it. It's recognised across UK construction and infrastructure sites.

However, you must upgrade to Blue Card (via NVQ Level 2) within the two-year validity period.

How do I upgrade from Red Card to Blue Card?

You need to complete NVQ Level 2 in Plant Operations (Excavator with Lifting Endorsement) while working on site. This typically takes 6-12 months and is assessed based on your real-world competence.

The process:

  1. Pass A59C and get Red Card (valid 2 years)
  2. Work on site, logging hours including lifting operations
  3. Complete NVQ Level 2 with assessor (6-12 months)
  4. Apply to CPCS for Blue Card (valid 5 years, renewable)

Your NVQ portfolio must include evidence of lifting operations, not just standard excavation work.

What happens if I fail the test?

We'll debrief you on what went wrong—whether it's lifting theory, rigging technique, or load control. Then we'll discuss the best way to get you retested.

The lifting operations test is demanding—you must demonstrate competent rigging, inspection, and load management. Additional training may be needed before retesting.

What's the difference between A59C and crane lifting (A60)?

A59C: Using excavators in crane mode—attachment removed, lifting hook fitted. Typically for piling, precast, and infrastructure work.

A60 (Crane categories): Purpose-built cranes for lifting operations. Dedicated crane machines, not excavators.

A59C is specifically for excavators configured for lifting. It's not a general crane qualification. Many specialist operators hold both excavator and crane cards.

How long is the CPCS Red Card valid?

Two years. Within that time, you need to complete your NVQ Level 2 and upgrade to a Blue Card. If you don't, your Red Card expires and you'll need to retest.

Do I need a CSCS card to attend?

No, a CSCS card isn't required for CPCS training. However, if you have one, bring it—it's useful to have for general site access.

Can I get funding or finance for the course?

Funding options depend on your employment status:

  • Employers: CITB grants may be available (if levy-paying). Lifting operations qualifications often attract higher grant rates.
  • Self-employed: Typically self-funded, but it's an investment in specialist, high-earning skills

Contact us to check eligibility and discuss options.

Do I need LOLER training separately from A59C?

LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) compliance is built into A59C training. You'll learn:

  • Legal requirements for lifting operations
  • Appointed person roles and responsibilities
  • Lift planning and method statements
  • Equipment examination and certification requirements

However, appointed person roles require additional training beyond A59C. As an operator, you work under an appointed person's direction.

What's the typical career path for A59C operators?

A59C opens specialist career opportunities:

  • Entry level: Excavator operator with lifting duties on infrastructure projects
  • Experienced: Specialist piling, marine, or precast contractor operations
  • Senior: Lead excavator operator on major civils projects
  • Progression: Some move into appointed person roles, crane supervision, or lifting coordinator positions

The combination of excavation and lifting skills makes you valuable on high-value, complex projects.

Ready to Start Your 360 Excavator Above 10 Tonnes (Lifting Operations) Training?

Join professional operators with recognised CPCS certification. Expert training available in Staffordshire.

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Professional training available throughout the year in Staffordshire. Contact us for course dates.