The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is set to launch the second phase of its new standardised plant training standards on June 18, 2025, continuing its efforts to standardise plant operator training across the industry.

Developed in close collaboration with industry representatives, these new short-course training standards are designed to reflect the increased requirements and responsibilities placed upon plant operators today. The changes aim to ensure employers receive a return on their training investment by producing competent, work-ready operators trained by expert providers.

CITB offers support to registered employers to cover the cost of this standardised plant training through several routes. Short course grants are available, with amounts ranging from £250 to £880 depending on the specific plant category and the learner's experience level. Alternatively, companies can book training via CITB's Employer Networks, where CITB contributes a proportion of the course cost, with the employer paying the remaining balance.


To be eligible for CITB funding and grants for the plant categories included in phase two, specific rules will apply from the launch date:

1. All training and testing elements must align with the new training standard.

2. The training and testing must take place on or after June 18, 2025.

3. Delivery must be by a CITB Approved Training Organisation (ATO) that is specifically approved to deliver the new standards.

4. The training must lead to a card carrying the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) logo.

5. The achievement must be uploaded to the relevant system by the ATO.

Importantly, previous training and test grants for the plant categories covered in phase two will no longer be available for achievements awarded on or after June 18, 2025.

Phase two standards will cover a range of widely used plant machinery, including various types and sizes of:

• 360 Excavators (Tracked/Wheeled, including Lifting Operations)

• 180 Excavators (including Lifting Operations)

• Forward Tipping Dumpers (Tracked)

• Dump Trucks (Articulated/Rigid Chassis, Wheeled/Tracked)

• Telescopic Handlers (including Industrial, Up To 9 Metres, All Sizes Including 360 Slew, and Suspended Loads Non-Rough Terrain)

More detailed information, including training durations and trainer-to-learner ratios, is available in the 'Plant standards phase two durations and ratios' PDF document on the CITB website.

Employers seeking more information on accessing CITB funding for plant training or other construction-related training should contact their local CITB advisor. Those unsure of their advisor can email customerengagement@citb.co.uk for assistance.