Skip to main content

Operator training for demolition drivers

In the UK the National Demolition Training Group is setting a precedent by establishing the first-ever CPCS skid steer loader test that designed specifically for the demolition industry The National Demolition Training Group (NDTG) is the training arm of the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC). This first test coincides with the switch in training course designations to the new suite of competence cards, which includes a classification for a demolition skid steer loader used in a demolition
November 29, 2012 Read time: 2 mins
Operator training and testing is now available in the UK for skid steer loader operators working in the demolition sector

In the UK the National Demolition Training Group is setting a precedent by establishing the first-ever CPCS skid steer loader test that designed specifically for the demolition industry

The 1643 National Demolition Training Group (NDTG) is the training arm of the 1644 National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC). This first test coincides with the switch in training course designations to the new suite of competence cards, which includes a classification for a demolition skid steer loader used in a demolition environment.

Whether this training programme will be introduced across Europe has yet to be seen, however the demolition sectors in the US and Canada work closely with the NFDC so similar training programmes will be likely to be developed in North America.

The first test took place at the Kettering Science Academy, a live Wilmott Dixon site with machines provided by AR Demolition. “On this kind of demolition test, we are looking for a different skill set to that of any other industry or sector. Candidates must be able to demonstrate knowledge of the demolition environment and have a minimum of two years industry experience,” explained National Demolition Training Group assessor Duncan Rudall. “Operatives have to take a touch-screen test first, undergo an hour-long theory test, and then it’s onto the machine starting with a pre-start check of the machine and its surroundings. The test also includes driving the machine across a site, negotiating a variety of obstacles, and carrying out a range of demolition activities.”

Each person successfully completing the test will now carry a red CPCS D92 Demolition Skid Steer in a Demolition Environment card that is valid for a period of two years. “The new test has been designed by demolition industry professionals to accurately mirror the very specific demands placed upon skid steer operators in this sector,” said NDTG training group manager Sophie Cox.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • bargain hunting, live onsite auction day in Donington, UK
    November 14, 2016
    It’s live onsite auction day in Donington, UK and it’s noisy. It’s also raining in early morning but that doesn’t put off the gathering crowd Buyers are milling around parked machinery. They kick tyres and slam doors. Some are behind the wheel, gingerly nudging vehicles frontwards and backwards or raising and lowering booms. Their partners stand a few metres away scrutinising the machine’s movements.
  • Higher productivity, lower cost asphalt plants
    February 14, 2012
    Manufacturers are producing innovative asphalt equipment, and operators are benefiting from this as Patrick Smithreports. Asphalt plant manufacturers and operators are understandably placing great emphasis on higher productivity but with lower costs. At the same time they are aware of environmental issues and the ever-increasing use of recycled material in mixes.
  • Optimising operations with construction software gains
    May 20, 2015
    Innovations in construction software are helping boost project efficiency and optimising project operations – Clive Davidson writes Over the past decade, while construction engineers have been putting up buildings or infrastructure, software engineers have been developing a parallel universe where virtual buildings or infrastructure can be created in ever increasing detail. What started with 2D architectural drawings in computer-aided design (CAD) systems, has become a multi-dimensional world, with 3D ge
  • DfT awards consultant role to partnership
    August 31, 2023
    The UK’s DfT has awarded a consultant role to a key partnership.