WESTERN
PLANT TRAINING

What Is a Plant Machinery Marshal?

A Plant Machinery Marshal (also known as Traffic Marshal or Banksman) is responsible for:

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• Guiding plant and vehicle movements

• Maintaining safe distances between workers and machinery

• Communicating clearly with operators

• Helping prevent collisions and site incidents

 

This role is essential on busy construction sites where multiple machines and workers are operating at the same time.

 

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Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for:

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• Labourers and groundworkers

• Banksmen / traffic marshals

• Site operatives working around plant

• Anyone responsible for directing vehicle movements

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Course Aims

To provide thorough training in plant machinery marshalling, to enable the candidate to pass the NPORS theory and practical tests.

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How long is the course?

Recommended Duration:

Novice: 

Refresher (with test): 1 Day

Experienced Worker Test: ½ Day (no training beforehand)

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What will I learn on the course?

To pass the test, you must successfully carry out the following activities:

 

• Prepare the plant machinery for travel

• Guide a vehicle through a chicane and into confined spaces using hand signals and radio communication.

• Tip and receive a load (if applicable)

• Carry out an emergency stop

• Guide a vehicle up to a structure using hand signals

• Return the plant machinery to the safe park position

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NPORS Plant Machinery Marshal Test

The test consists of:

• Theory test - 5 written questions and 20 multiple choice questions

• Practical test

Candidates will be provided with a copy of the theory test questions before the test.

 

If any candidates experience difficulties with reading or writing, please let us know so we can assist them appropriately.

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Candidates requiring the Traditional NPORS card with the "HS&E Tested" logo on the card must have passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Operatives test within two years of the NPORS test date.

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Candidates requiring the CSCS NPORS card must also have passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Operatives test within two years of the NPORS test date.

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Achievement

There are 2 types of NPORS cards available. Once candidates have passed both the theory and practical tests they will either achieve the 5 year Traditional NPORS Card or the 2 year NPORS CSCS Red Trained Operator Card (requires an NVQ on expiry).​​

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What happens after I complete the course?

The Traditional NPORS Card is valid for 5 years and can be renewed by either an employer signing a renewal form, or by the operative completing refresher training.

 

The NPORS CSCS Red Trained Operator card is valid for 2 years, once achieved you can upgrade to an NPORS Blue Competent Operator card. To upgrade to a blue card, you must achieve the NVQ in Plant Operations before your red card expires.

For more information, please contact the test centre.

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1-To-1 Training Option

We offer this course as 1-to-1 training, giving you dedicated support from the instructor throughout the day.

 

This allows you to:

• Learn at your own pace

• Fully understand signalling and safety procedures

• Ask questions and build confidence

 

It’s ideal for candidates who want a more focused and supportive learning experience.

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On-Site Training Requirements

If you would like this course delivered at your premises, the following will be required:

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• A suitable indoor area (meeting room, cabin, or office)

• Seating and space for all candidates

• A safe outdoor area for practical elements (if required)

• A quiet environment for theory training

• Welfare facilities (toilets and handwashing)

 

We can advise on the setup and ensure everything is suitable before the training takes place.

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Group & Company Bookings

We can also provide:

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• Group training courses

• Discounted rates for multiple candidates

• Flexible booking options for companies

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If you’re looking for Plant Machinery Marshal training in Cornwall or Devon, get in touch today.

We can:

• Confirm availability

• Provide pricing

• Help you choose the right course