01
Suitable machine
The machine must be safe to operate, suitable for the course, correctly maintained, free from dangerous defects and available throughout the course. Attachments should also be suitable and in good working order.
Employer checklist · UK-wide
On-site plant training requirements.
Everything you need before your NPORS instructor arrives. Prepare your machinery, site information, documents and facilities so the course can run safely and efficiently.
Vally Plant Training delivers NPORS-accredited on-site plant training throughout the UK. Training at your workplace lets operators learn using the machines, attachments and working environment they use every day. To ensure your course runs safely and efficiently, there are several documents, inspections and site requirements that should be in place before the instructor arrives.
Why choose on-site training?
- ✓ Uses your own machinery
- ✓ Reduces operator travel
- ✓ Minimises downtime
- ✓ Reflects your normal working environment
- ✓ Allows multiple operators to train together
- ✓ Can be tailored to daily operations
What we need before training starts
Machine operator handbookDaily pre-use checksCurrent LOLER / thorough examination certificates where applicableLifting accessories certificates where lifting is part of the courseSuitable risk assessmentMethod statement where appropriateLift plan for lifting coursesUnderground and overhead service informationOperator photographic identificationSuitable PPE for every delegate
02
Operator’s manual
A manufacturer’s operator handbook must be available for every machine used during training. It helps confirm safe operating procedures, daily inspections and manufacturer recommendations.
03
Daily pre-use inspection
Machines should undergo a daily inspection before training. Typical checks include tyres or tracks, hydraulic hoses, fluid levels, controls, steering, brakes, warning devices, lights, seat belts, safety devices and attachments.
04
Thorough examination certificates
Where applicable, have current inspection certificates available. This can include LOLER examinations, lifting accessories, forklifts, telehandlers, excavator lifting equipment, chains, slings and hooks. Where lifting operations form part of a course, these documents are required before practical lifting exercises.
05
Risk assessment
Have a suitable and sufficient risk assessment covering the training activity. Consider vehicle movements, pedestrian routes, excavations, overhead and underground services, weather, public access, noise and dust.
06
Method statement
Where appropriate, the method statement should describe how work and training activities will be carried out safely.
07
Lift plan where applicable
For Excavator as a Crane, Lift Supervisor, Appointed Person, Slinger Signaller or Telehandler Suspended Loads courses, a lift plan is required before lifting activities commence.
08
Safe training area
The area must suit the machine, be clear of unnecessary traffic, allow practical exercises and manoeuvring, be separated from pedestrians and be free from interruptions.
09
Services and exclusion zones
Before excavation or lifting, identify underground services, overhead power lines, restricted areas and exclusion zones. Where required, complete CAT & Genny surveys before excavation exercises.
10
Operator identification
Delegates should bring photographic identification, such as a driving licence or passport, to verify identity where required.
11
PPE
Delegates need suitable PPE, typically safety boots, high-visibility clothing, hard hats, gloves, eye protection and hearing protection where required.
12
Welfare facilities
Suitable welfare facilities should normally include toilets, handwashing facilities, drinking water and a rest area.
13
Site contact
Nominate a responsible person who can meet the instructor, provide site access, explain site rules and assist if required during the course.
Additional requirements for specific courses
The original course guidance lists these additional items by training category.
| Course | Additional requirements |
|---|---|
| 360 Excavator Training | Suitable excavation area, spoil and underground service information. |
| Excavator as a Crane Training | Approved lifting point, lifting accessories, current LOLER certificates and a lift plan. |
| Telehandler Training | Suitable loads, stacking area, forks or approved attachment, current LOLER certificates and a lift plan. |
| Counterbalance Forklift Training | Pallets, loads, stacking area, racking where available, current LOLER certificates and lift plan. |
| Dumper Training | Loading area, excavation or haul route, and excavator or loader. |
| Plant Banksman Training | Moving vehicles or plant suitable for practical exercises. |
| CAT & Genny Training | Known underground service area where available, CAT & Genny equipment and utility plans. |
Why proper preparation matters
- Reduces delays
- Improves safety
- Maximises practical training time
- Supports legislative compliance
- Improves learning outcomes
- Helps delegates achieve the best possible results
Frequently asked questions
Can we use our own machines?
Yes.
Most on-site courses are delivered using your own plant and equipment.
What happens if a machine develops a fault?
Training may need to be paused until the machine is safe to use.
Safety always comes first.
Do operator manuals need to be available?
Yes.
Manufacturer information supports safe operation and training.
Without the operator’s manual, training will not be allowed to proceed and may be cancelled.
Do I need LOLER certificates?
Yes, where lifting equipment or lifting operations are involved.
Can Vally Plant Training provide risk assessments?
The employer remains responsible for site-specific risk assessments.
We can advise on training activities and work safely alongside existing arrangements, but your business should ensure suitable assessments are in place.
Do operators need previous experience?
Experienced Worker Test candidates are profiled on their past operating experience.
If this is insufficient, the candidate may be referred for training.
Candidates sign the profile sheet once completed.
We offer novice, refresher and EWT routes depending on experience.
If you are unsure, contact our team on 0800 689 1793.
Ready to book?
Whether you’re training one operator or an entire workforce, Vally Plant Training provides professional NPORS on-site training throughout Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, the South West and the rest of the UK. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the preparation process and help your training run safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption.
For a quotation, tell us your site location, course or plant category, number of delegates, novice/refresher/EWT route and preferred dates.
Request an on-site training quote →