Qualification Through Competence
Independent plant and FLT training provider based in Derbyshire, delivering competence-based training across the East Midlands. We train on your equipment, at your premises, to HSE-recognised standards — without the overheads of traditional card schemes.
Most operators carry a card but can't demonstrate genuine competence. We focus on what actually keeps your workforce safe: structured, evidence-based training aligned to the law, not just the cheapest route to a plastic card.
All training is structured around PUWER Regulation 9 and relevant Approved Codes of Practice. This is the legal standard — card schemes are not a legal requirement.
We assess what matters: can the operator safely and competently operate the equipment? Not just "did they attend a course." Theory plus practical, mapped to NVQ criteria.
Training happens at your premises, on your equipment, in your working environment. No sending operators to test centres to drive equipment they'll never touch again.
Typically 40-60% less than CPCS or NPORS for equivalent training outcomes. No test centre fees, no registration charges, no annual renewal costs per operator.
Every training event produces certificates, assessment records, theory papers, and employer authorisation templates. Your documentation will stand up to any HSE inspection.
Operators learn on the actual machines they'll use daily. Site-specific hazards are covered. The result: genuine competence that transfers directly to the job.
Comprehensive competence training across plant and materials handling equipment. Each course includes theory, practical assessment, and full documentation.
The workhorse of warehousing. New operator, refresher, and conversion courses covering pre-use checks, stacking, loading, and pedestrian safety.
View Course PackNarrow aisle and high-rack reach truck operation. Covers racking systems, height work, battery procedures, and warehouse-specific hazards.
Enquire About This CourseVersatile telehandler training covering construction and agricultural applications. Boom operation, load charts, and attachment handling.
View Course PackFull 360-degree tracked and wheeled excavator training. Covers trenching, lifting, banksman operations, and underground services awareness.
Enquire About This CourseBackhoe loader and 180-degree excavator operation. Roadworks, utilities work, and multi-function machine competence.
Enquire About This CourseMobile elevated work platforms including scissor lifts and boom lifts. Height safety, ground conditions, rescue planning, and IPAF-equivalent competence.
Enquire About This CourseSite dumper operation covering loading, tipping, gradient work, and site traffic management. Suitable for construction and civil engineering sites.
Enquire About This CourseLarge articulated dump truck training for quarry, earthworks, and major construction. Covers payload management, haul roads, and tip-area safety.
Enquire About This CourseVehicle-mounted crane (HIAB/lorry loader) training. Load charts, outrigger deployment, slinging and signalling, and safe lift planning.
Enquire About This CourseShot blasting and abrasive blasting competence. Covers RPE, dust control, confined spaces awareness, and blast cleaning techniques.
Enquire About This CoursePHW Services is based in Derby, Derbyshire and delivers on-site training across the East Midlands and beyond. We come to you — no need to send your operators off-site.
Our regular coverage area includes:
Further afield? Get in touch — we regularly deliver beyond our core area for multi-day bookings and corporate contracts.
Training delivered at your premises, on your equipment, in your working environment. No test centres. No travel time for your operators. No lost productivity.
There is no legal requirement in the UK for operators to hold a CPCS, NPORS, or any other card-scheme "licence." The law requires competence, not cards.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) Regulation 9 requires that "all persons who use work equipment have received adequate training for purposes of health and safety." It does not specify how that training must be delivered or by whom.
The HSE Approved Code of Practice L117 (Rider-Operated Lift Trucks) outlines what constitutes adequate training for lift truck operators. It recommends a three-stage process: basic training, specific job training, and familiarisation — but does not mandate any particular accrediting body.
Unlike driving on public roads, there is no statutory licence required to operate plant or FLTs on private land. Card schemes are voluntary industry standards. What the law requires is demonstrable competence, proper documentation, and employer authorisation.
Don't take our word for it. The HSE's own guidance confirms that independent training is legally valid provided it covers the required competence elements. Visit HSE Lift Truck Training Guidance for full details.
Bottom line: A well-structured, documented, competence-based training programme delivered by a qualified instructor meets the legal requirements under PUWER and HSE guidance — with or without a card-scheme logo on the certificate.
Our training programmes are designed to withstand scrutiny from the HSE, insurers, and principal contractors. Every element is documented, structured, and auditable.
Assessment criteria aligned to National Vocational Qualification performance standards for each equipment category.
Written and verbal knowledge assessment covering legislation, safety procedures, load handling, and equipment-specific hazards.
Observed practical assessment on the operator's own equipment, scored against defined competence criteria with documented outcomes.
Certificates, assessment records, theory papers, training plans, and course completion records — ready for any audit or inspection.
Template employer authorisation forms confirming each operator is approved to operate specific equipment at specific locations.
Operator pre-use inspection checklists for each equipment type, ensuring daily safety checks become embedded in your operations.
No hidden costs. No registration fees. No annual renewal charges per operator. On-site delivery included within the East Midlands.
| Training Type | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Refresher | Single operator, experienced, refresher assessment and revalidation | £200 – £300 |
| Group Refresher | Per head, up to 3 operators — the most cost-effective option for teams | £150 – £200 |
| Full New Operator Course | Complete novice to competent operator — theory, practical, assessment, certification | £500 – £800 |
| Corporate Annual Package | Ongoing training contract for businesses with multiple operators and equipment types | From £5,000 |
All prices exclude VAT. On-site delivery included within the East Midlands. Prices vary by equipment type and course duration. Contact us for a tailored quote.
Ready to discuss your training requirements? Drop us a message and we'll come back to you with a tailored quote — usually within 24 hours.
PHW Services
4 Woburn House
Vernon Gate
Derby, DE1 1UL
Monday – Friday: 07:00 – 18:00
Weekends by arrangement