Phase four of CITB’s new plant training standards will be launched in September 2026.

CITB and the Plant Sector Representative Organisation (PSRO) have been working together closely to standardise plant training across the construction industry. This has seen the introduction of short-course training standards for plant categories that reflect the increased requirements and responsibilities for plant operators.

Phase four will cover the following standards:

• Appointed Person

• Crane/Lifting Supervisor

• Tower Crane Operator: Trolley Jib – Cab Controlled

• Tower Crane Operator: Luffing Jib – Cab Controlled

• Tower Crane Operator: Trolley Jib – Remote Controlled

• Vacuum Excavator: Non LGV, manual arm

• Vacuum Excavator: Non LGV, semi powered arm

• Vacuum Excavator: Trailer mounted, manual arm

• Vacuum Excavator: Trailer mounted, semi powered arm

• Vacuum Excavator: Semi-Powered Arm

• Vacuum Excavator: Fully Powered Arm

• Loader Compressor Training

Once again, the standards have been developed in collaboration with industry working groups consisting of employers, training providers and federations. The changes will ensure employers see a return on their investment by producing competent, work-ready plant operators, who have received training from experts.