The sudden removal of the CPCS validator from the scheme in August 2019 came as some surprise to the majority of test centres and companies directly involved within the blue card renewal process. This was compounded by the lack of available information from NOCN jobcards over their justification.
(NOCN is the owner and maintainer of the CPCS card scheme, after having acquired it from CITB in 2018.)
However, NOCN have now provided some clarity over this decision (via an email):
At the start of August we made the decision to remove Validators from the scheme. The reasons for this were:
- Between March and June, 23.99% of rejected renewal applications were due to the validator not undertaking the checks or completing the application form correctly. We have calculated 84.4% of these rejections could have been avoided. This was slowing the process for getting the right people the right cards to work on site.
- There was reported fraudulent activity taking place in the validator process which we wanted to stop.
Since the removal of the Validators, our rejection rates have dropped from 23% to 11.2%.
We recognise that there is an important place for employer checks on site and we have made this clear in our most recent communications and updated forms, these are available on our website – click this link for: further-information-on-the-removal-of-the-validator-role
On this occasion we know our communications to Test Centres were not as strong as they should have been and for this we apologise – we will continue to learn from you.
As ACOP Group we have read the reasoning from NOCN and welcome this decision. Please contact us if you require any clarification.
I usually work for different agencys who can validate my cpcs card its frustrating got my hours in on logbook but not working at min who can validate it ant suggestions
Hi Mark,
If you are in the process of renewing your blue card, then the good news is there is no longer a validator section! Section E on the renewal (F1/3) form asks for an employer’s signature now instead, and I’m guessing if you’re self-employed working for an agency – then you wold sign this section yourself.
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
im the same i work for agency’s and im not working so i passed my renewal test but don’t have anyone to sign my form , i suppose ill have to wait for work but then cannot guarantee there will be someone there thats is an approved validator .
The sad truth is that CPCS (NOCN) did grow based on their focus in increasing revenue. They did not take the appropriate measures and they made mistake after mistake after mistake. running this massive Scheme should be done By expierence Managers who have been involved in all stages of Plant (from operative to senior position level) This has became nothing but a sad joke done only for the benefit of incompetent personnel who have nothing to do with this industry other then destroying this, so important, part of Construction Industry (plant, Plant management, Logistics and lifting operations))
Rang Citb they said no longer need to validate your log book just pass your Cscs operative and cpcs screen test and send it off that’s what I was told they said anybody could sign the validaters bit
As a owner driver that try’s to stay away from site work I’ve been able to validate my self what happens now
Out of work at moment, just done my retest for 360 , forward tipping dumper and roller, passed all. Who do I get to sign the section e on renewal form !! Its the blue cpcs I already have !! System is a joke !!,
Hi Paul,
Apologies for the delay in getting back to you. The NOCN website states the following;
If you renew your Blue Competent Operator card using the logbook route, then you should have the logbook endorsed prior to submitting your application. Your employer must complete the Independent Declaration section of the F1/3 Application to Renew a CPCS Competent Operator Card.
In doing so, the following checks are made;
These checks include;
a) that the applicant’s details stated in section A1 and A2 are correct
b) the applicant has the relevant CITB Health, safety and environment test passed within 2 years of the date of application receipt
c) the applicant has the relevant CPCS Renewal test(s) passed within 2 years of the date of application receipt (for each category being renewed as indicated in Section C
d) the applicant has proven ongoing category operating ability through:
recording the minimum number of hours in a CPCS Logbook (and being endorsed competent by an Endorser)
My understanding is that you are also able to act as the employer provided you are self employed.
Hope that helps?
Team ACOP
Gary,
Thanks for getting in touch.
If you renew your Blue Competent Operator card using the logbook route, then you should have the logbook endorsed prior to submitting your application. Your employer must complete the Independent Declaration section of the F1/3 Application to Renew a CPCS Competent Operator Card.
You may wish to approach a previous employer for this if you are currently unemployed. However, if you are self-employed then you can complete this section yourself.
Their role is to carry out the following checks;
a) that the applicant’s details stated in section A1 and A2 are correct
b) the applicant has the relevant CITB Health, safety and environment test passed within 2 years of the date of application receipt
c) the applicant has the relevant CPCS Renewal test(s) passed within 2 years of the date of application receipt (for each category being renewed as indicated in Section C
d) the applicant has proven ongoing category operating ability through:
-recording the minimum number of hours in a CPCS Logbook (which should be endorsed as competent by an Endorser)
However, if you are unable to gain the independent declaration or do not have the hours in a logbook, then you would have the following option;
-achievement of the CPCS Practical Test or On-site Assessment delivered by a CPCS Test Centre
Let us know how you get on?
Thanks,
Team ACOP
Had my card since it was cta. Might as well just go npors lol seems easier
I’ve just passed my telescopic handler red card do I need a log book as I know u need it with a blue card
I’ve just passed my telescopic handle do I need a log book as I’ve got a red card I know u need one for a blue card
Hi Tommy,
Thanks for getting in touch.
Well done on passing your telehandler test.
You’ll be sent a log book by CPCS once you gain your blue card. Whilst there’s no requirement to fill one in while you are on red, it could be seen as good practice. In fact, you could always download a copy from the CPCS website and start filling one in from the start, as this will act as good evidence of your employment record.
All the best,
Team ACOP
I’ve passed my renewal test but have nobody to sign my logbook . I have 20 years experience what do I need to do for the application
Hi Andy,
If your question is about who endorses the logbook in the first instance, this is what CPCS state;
-Each entry must be endorsed by someone who can confirm your operating experience on that machine or equipment.
-They must provide THEIR full contact details.
-The endorser must be in a minimum of a supervisory role.
-You must not self-endorse (rare exceptions apply).
However, if you are asking who signs the renewal application form, then CPCS state that your employer must complete the Independent Declaration section of the F1/3 Application to Renew a CPCS Competent Operator Card.
Although, if you are self-employed, then you are also allowed to sign this section.
Thanks,
Team ACOP
I’ve had a telehandler licence since 1994, and have twice renewed my blue card. And suddenly, I’m going round in circles because nobody knows where I can book the A17 touch screen test again.
Who the hell is minding the store? I’ve made over a dozen calls over the last few days and visited the test centre I used twice before. Nobody has joined up this system.
My ticket expires in November. I’m in Portsmouth. What do I do next?
Hi Neal,
Have you tried booking your CITB HS&E and CPCS RT17 Renewal Test test through the following link?
https://wsr.pearsonvue.com/testtaker/signin/SignInPage/CITB
Let me know how you get on please?
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
What’s going on here like?? Total confusion on who’s doing the HSE and who’s doing the modular test. Now can’t make out what’s going on regarding signing log book. Who’s running what? is this just about making money?
Hi Andrew,
Great comment, thank you.
Regarding the HSE and Renewal Tests these are being administered by Pearson Vue still.
CITB still own the HSE tests, the only real change is that NOCN now own the Renewal (modular) Tests.
Regarding logbooks, the validators role no longer exists and the onus has been put back on the employer to check the operating hours in th elogbook prior to signing the renewal application form.
Hope that demystifies a little?
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
Im a lone operator i was registered as a validator so who do i go to all my catagories and hours are signed off by the firms i.ve worked for
Gary,
Thanks for getting in touch.
I notice that the F1/3 application to renew a blue card puts a large emphasis on an employer endorsement and independent declaration, see below;
Section E: This section must be signed and dated to acknowledge an independent declaration of the applicant’s identity by one of the following:
• the Individual’s Employer (if renewing through the Logbook route) ensuring the Employer name box is completed in full, or
• the CPCS Tester (if renewing through the CPCS Practical test or On-site Assessment route), or
• the employer representative that signed Section C of the Renewal Assessment form if applying for categories A61, A62 and/or A68 through this route, ensuring the Employer Name box is also completed.
However, if you are self-employed, I understand that you are able to sign the application as the employer! The information for self-employed operators is not easy to find on the CPCS website, and you can always ring the CPCS helpdesk for more clarity. However here’s a statement (and link) I found that refers to ‘self-employed applicants’ and the removal of validators;
Self-employed applicants are responsible for making sure their logbook is endorsed in line with the scheme rules.
Hope that helps?
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
Thanks again,
It’s a money making racket that should be abolished, absolute crap, been operating 360s for 40 years and now it looks like I have to stop because of this crap system, why don’t they just ask for £50 every 5 years for a new ticket, everyone knows its a joke money making racket
No one is answering any of these questions.
If you have it on paper that you are a confirmed validator, surely they cant back track and say your not.
Some one is working on ways to squeeze more money out of this.
It will become the same as the lorry drivers. Plenty of jobs with no qualified drivers.
Hi Adrian,
Thanks for your comment.
When renewing a blue card, using CPCS f1/3 application form.
Where ‘section E’ was previously signed by a validator, the onus is now on the employer instead.
Furthermore, the form now also states..
“If you are Self Employed, please complete this section as the “Individual’s Employer”.
Hope this helps?
Thanks,
Team ACOP
Hi Gary,
Thanks for your comment.
If you are self employed you are still able to complete the F1/3 form for renewing your blue CPCS card.
Section E now states: “If you are Self Employed please complete this section as the “Individual’s Employer”.
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
How do I renew my A58A Blue card. I’ve had the card over 10 years. Obviously had a few renewals in the past. My latest one runs out in March 22 and I usually use the valdaitor route, but by the sound of it this is not possible now. Worked self employed for over 10 years and never used my blue book once.
What route do I take now?
Kind regards
Stu
Hi Stuart,
Thanks for getting in touch.
You will need to complete an operatives CITB HS&E Test and the A58 Renewal Test. You can download the factsheet via the Renewal Test Tool here.
The only real difference in the validation process is that an employer takes on this role as opposed to an approved CPCS company validator. If you are self-employed, then you can also act as the employer!
As before, the endorsement is to confirm 300 logged hours in the operator log-book.
Without the hours, your options are to complete an on-site assessment or practical test (which come at a cost).
Please let me know if we can be of further help?
Team ACOP
Hi ! I have just passed the blue card touch screen renewal test for telehandlers and the CITB Health & Safety test, I spent 2 hours trying to apply for the CPCS card online on NOCN website but no success . Should I just call and ask them to send my card to my address or what is the precise procedure ,I am really lost ! Thank you !
Hi I’m currently in the process of renewing my CPCS blue ride on roller card.Ive just completed the relevent H/S touch screen and the 15 questions module.However I’m currently out of work but self employed so can sign off my own 300 hours as I’ve worked through the agency’s route ?
Hi Tony
Thanks for getting in touch.
You will need to complete the F1-3 renewal form and submit it to CPCS – I have emailed you a copy.
I suggest that you contact CPCS to see if you can sign off your own hours as it does state on the logbook that you must not self endorse your hours but rare exceptions apply.
Kind regards,
Team ACOP
Raul,
Thanks for getting in touch.
The simplest way to renew you card is to complete the f1-3 renewal form and then email it to CPCS@jobcards.org
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
Hi I’m a shamed to say this but I’ve having problems passing my renewal test I’ve studied quite a lot, can anyone help please
Stephen,
Thanks for getting in touch.
There’s certainly nothing to be ashamed of, we see many people who struggle with the renewal tests. I’ve even heard that CPCS are looking at ways of improving the pass rates and are in the process of creating audio versions! Until then, I can only offer you a revision session for an hour to go through the paperwork prior to sitting the test with us. We have done this a few times in the past with notable success.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Team ACOP
Hi
I’m currently trying to renew my blue slinger/ signaller and lift supervisor cards which expired in March 2019 .
I have lost any log book records that I had
Any advice you can give me
Thanks.
Simon,
Thanks for getting in touch.
You’ll first of all need to complete the Supervisor CITB HS&E test and CPCS renewal test.
Regarding logbook, you could download a copy and complete it retrospectively.
Alternatively, you could come to us for the practical test on each category. The cost for this would be £350.00+vat per test.
Thanks again,
Hi do you have to fill in a logbook
Hi Graham
Thanks for getting in touch.
Here’s the link regarding the CPCS Logbook – for blue card renewals:
I hope that helps.
Thanks again,
Team ACOP
Is there a way to find out when I got my first ever blue cpcs ticket,ie what year as my registration number has changed