HIAB CPCS A36 Course
Key Features
Of this HIAB A36 Course:
- Gain recognised CPCS certification for safe operation of lorry loaders across varied UK construction and logistics sites
- Master pre-use inspections, load stability calculations and correct slinging techniques for different boom configurations
- Develop competence in site-specific risk assessment and coordination with ground workers during lifting operations
- Understand current LOLER and PUWER requirements as they apply to vehicle-mounted cranes in real workplace conditions
- Build practical skills for both knuckle-boom and telescopic lorry loaders in confined and open-site scenarios
Course Date Availability
HIAB A36 training at the following 1 centres. Prices from £1560 per person :
| Training Centres | Next Available Dates |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh | 3rd Aug 202623rd Nov 2026 |
Course Information
Overview:
The CPCS A36 Lorry Loader course delivers the full industry-standard training required to operate vehicle-mounted cranes, commonly known as HIAB units, on UK construction and logistics sites. Delegates learn to conduct thorough pre-use checks, calculate load weights and centres of gravity, select appropriate lifting accessories, and execute safe lifts while maintaining vehicle stability on varied ground conditions. The qualification covers both knuckle-boom and telescopic boom types, reflecting the breadth of equipment used across the sector in 2026.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for:
- HGV drivers who operate lorry loaders as part of their daily duties
- Construction site operatives responsible for loading and unloading materials
- Plant operators seeking to add the A36 category to their CPCS card
- Logistics and transport supervisors overseeing lifting operations
- Experienced operators requiring a CPCS blue card or refresher training
What You Will Learn
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Pre-use and post-use checks including hydraulic systems, stabilisers and safety devices
- Load assessment, centre-of-gravity calculation and correct selection of lifting accessories
- Safe operating procedures for both knuckle-boom and telescopic lorry loaders
- Vehicle positioning, stabiliser deployment and ground condition evaluation
- Slinging methods, signalling protocols and coordination with banksmen
- Emergency procedures, fault recognition and shutdown protocols
Course Agenda
Overview:
The course runs over two days for novice operators or one day for experienced operators and combines classroom theory with extensive practical exercises on a live lorry loader.
Key Modules Covered
What you will learn:
- Health and safety legislation, LOLER and PUWER duties
- Machine types, rated capacity indicators and stability principles
- Pre-use inspection and defect reporting procedures
- Load weight estimation and lifting accessory selection
- Practical lifting operations in confined and open areas
- End-of-shift checks, stowage and site handover
Private Courses On-site
HIAB CPCS A36 training is also available as a dedicated course, at your premises, and on a date and time of your choosing. Advantages of group / private course is the convenience of candidates being in familiar surroundings and not having to travel, the lowest price, and the ability to have the course tailored to your own application.
Latest Delegate Feedback
⭐ Rated 4.2 By Our Candidates - (166 reviews)
Nicoleta Angheluta thanks..!...!
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – John M - Mon 11th May 2026
6 staff members all saying the course that took place in Tadley recently was something wholly worth attending.
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Jamie M - Sun 10th May 2026
All 11 of my delegates said the HIAB A36 training session conducted on our site was one of the most useful courses attended.. Having on hand was really helpful.
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Louise A - Wed 6th May 2026
Comprehensive and covered a lot of ground...
★★★★★
5 ⭐ – Andy - Tue 5th May 2026
Accreditation & Next Steps
What you will achieve as a result:
Delegates who pass both the CPCS theory test and practical test receive a CPCS Red Trained Operator card. After completing the relevant NVQ and gaining site experience, operators can progress to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator card, which remains valid for five years and demonstrates ongoing competence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most commonly asked HIAB CPCS A36 questions:
Novice operators attend a two-day course while experienced operators complete a one-day programme that includes theory and practical assessment.
Delegates must hold a valid CITB Health, Safety and Environment test pass and provide photographic ID before starting the course.
Yes, the standard A36 syllabus includes practical training and assessment on both common boom configurations used on UK sites.
Delegates complete a multiple-choice theory test and a practical test that includes pre-use checks, a series of lifts and correct machine stowage.
The CPCS Red Trained Operator card is valid for two years. The Blue Competent Operator card is valid for five years once the relevant NVQ is achieved.
Operators must renew their CPCS card every five years by completing a refresher course and retaking the relevant tests to demonstrate continued competence.
Delegates need safety boots, high-visibility clothing, a hard hat, gloves and any current certification or logbook they hold.
A36 focuses specifically on vehicle-mounted lorry loaders rather than mobile cranes or tower cranes, with emphasis on vehicle stability and road-going equipment.
Yes, successful delegates receive a CPCS card that allows them to operate lorry loaders on sites requiring CPCS accreditation.
Training includes loading and unloading in restricted spaces, working around overhead hazards, and coordinating with ground teams during multi-lift operations.
No prior experience is required for the novice course, although delegates with operating experience may attend the shorter experienced-operator route.
Delegates receive feedback and may rebook a retest on a future date once additional practice has been completed.
Prices per person typically start at £1560. Discounts available for multi person or group bookings (depending upon location)
More Information
This qualification equips operators with the practical skills and regulatory knowledge needed to carry out lifting operations safely and efficiently on active construction and logistics sites.
Last updated: May 2026 • Part of XYZ Training Group