December 2025 will see the launch of phase three of CITB's new plant training standards, marking a significant step in standardising plant training across the construction industry. This initiative, a collaborative effort between CITB and the Plant Sector Representative Organisation (PSRO), aims to introduce short-course training standards that reflect the increased requirements and responsibilities for plant operators.

Following updates to the phase one standards in December 2024 and the launch of 19 standards in the second tranche in June, this upcoming phase continues to be developed in partnership with industry working groups comprising employers, training providers, and federations. The goal is to ensure employers see a return on their investment by producing highly competent, work-ready plant operators trained by experts.

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Phase three standards will cover several key categories:

• Slinger Signallers

• Loader Operations

• Vacuum Excavators

• Lifting Operations

• Tower Cranes

• Forklifts

Christopher Simpson, Head of Quality and Standards at CITB, commented: "These changes will help standardise and improve the quality and consistency of plant training; increase the amount of plant training that takes place before testing; and increase the number of people trained in plant operations, particularly new entrants to construction."