Slinger Signaller CPCS A40 Course
Key Features
Of this Slinger Signaller A40 Course:
- 2-4 day duration - tailored to your experience level (novice or experienced operators)
- Earn the official CPCS Red Trained Operator Card (A40 All Duties)
- Hands-on practical training using real cranes, lifting equipment, slings, shackles and spreader beams
- Master safe load calculation, accessory inspection, hand signals and radio communication
- Full coverage of current legislation: LOLER, PUWER and BS 7121
- Clear route to the Blue Competent Operator Card after gaining on-site hours and completing the NVQ
Course Date Availability
Slinger Signaller A40 training at the following 17 centres. Prices from £799 per person :
Course Information
Overview:
The CPCS A40 Slinger/Signaller course is the recognised UK qualification for anyone who slings loads and gives signals to crane or lifting equipment operators on construction sites. It is a practical, hands-on course that teaches you how to plan lifts safely, choose and inspect the correct lifting accessories, calculate load weights, and communicate clearly using hand signals and radios. In 2026, almost every principal contractor and site requires a valid CPCS card for anyone involved in lifting operations.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for:
- Anyone who needs to sling loads and signal lifting operations on site
- Crane operators, excavator drivers and plant operatives who also carry out slinging duties
- Site supervisors and foremen who oversee lifting work
- People starting a career in the lifting and crane industry
- Experienced slinger/signallers who need an official CPCS card to prove their competence
What You Will Learn
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Identify and select the correct lifting accessories for any given load
- Carry out thorough pre-use inspections of slings, shackles, hooks and spreader beams
- Calculate load weights and understand down-rating of accessories
- Give clear, accurate hand signals and use radio communication correctly
- Plan safe lifting operations and complete lifting plans
- Understand your legal responsibilities under LOLER, PUWER and BS 7121
Course Agenda
Overview:
The CPCS A40 Slinger/Signaller course is delivered over 2 to 4 days, depending on your level of experience. Experienced operators can usually complete the course in 2 days, while those who are new to slinging typically require the full 4 days. The course is split between classroom theory and extensive practical training. You will spend a significant amount of time working with real lifting equipment, practising slinging techniques, inspecting accessories, and giving signals to crane operators under the supervision of an experienced trainer. The final day includes a theory test and a practical assessment. This structure ensures you not only understand the theory but can confidently apply it in real site conditions.
Key Modules Covered
What you will learn:
- Current legislation, regulations and Approved Codes of Practice (LOLER, PUWER, BS 7121)
- Roles and responsibilities of the slinger/signaller within the lifting team
- Selection, inspection and safe use of all common lifting accessories
- Load calculation, centre of gravity and load balancing
- Correct slinging techniques and angles
- Hand signals and radio communication procedures
- Pre-use checks, storage and maintenance of equipment
- Planning safe lifts and completing risk assessments
- Practical slinging and signalling exercises with real lifting equipment
Private Courses On-site
Slinger Signaller CPCS A40 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.
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Accreditation & Next Steps
What you will achieve as a result:
On successful completion you receive the official CPCS Red Trained Operator Card (valid for 2 years). After gaining the required on-site experience you can complete the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations to upgrade to the Blue Competent Operator Card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most commonly asked Slinger Signaller CPCS A40 questions:
The course duration is 2 to 4 days depending on your previous experience. Novices usually require the full 4 days, while experienced operators can often complete it in 2 days.
A Slinger/Signaller is responsible for safely attaching loads to lifting equipment, inspecting lifting accessories before use, calculating load weights, and giving clear, accurate signals to the crane or machine operator to ensure safe and efficient lifting operations.
No formal qualifications are required to attend the course. However, you must have passed the CITB Operatives Health, Safety and Environment Test within the last 2 years. Previous experience working with plant or lifting operations is helpful but not essential.
A40A is the most comprehensive category. It covers all duties and all types of lifting equipment, making it the most widely accepted and versatile card for Slinger/Signallers working with cranes and other lifting machinery on construction sites.
You will sit a CPCS theory test covering legislation, lifting accessories, load calculation and signalling. The practical assessment requires you to demonstrate correct slinging techniques, thorough accessory inspection, load calculation and clear hand and radio signals to the lifting equipment operator.
You must bring safety boots, a hard hat, high-visibility clothing (vest or jacket) and gloves. All other equipment, including lifting accessories and radios, is provided by the training provider.
The CPCS Red Trained Operator Card is valid for 2 years. After gaining sufficient on-site experience you can complete the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations to upgrade to the Blue Competent Operator Card.
Yes, we regularly deliver private CPCS A40 courses on customer sites or chosen venues. This is often more convenient for companies and allows training to be scheduled around your project programme.
If you do not pass one or more elements, you can usually retake the failed parts. We offer re-sit options and additional support to help you achieve the qualification.
Yes, the course is suitable for both complete beginners and experienced operators. The duration is adjusted according to your level of experience to ensure you get the right amount of training.
After passing you receive the Red Card. The recommended next step is to gain practical experience on site and then complete the Level 2 NVQ Diploma to upgrade to the Blue Competent Operator Card, which is the industry standard for experienced Slinger/Signallers.
Prices per person typically start at £799. Discounts available for multi person or group bookings (depending upon location)
More Information
The CPCS A40 Slinger/Signaller course is essential for anyone involved in lifting operations. It teaches you how to work safely, reduce risk, and meet legal requirements. Whether you book an open course or a private group session, you will leave with practical skills and the official CPCS card that employers look for.
Last updated: Jun 2026 • Part of XYZ Training Group