CPCS A34 Tractor / Dozer

Course Overview

The CPCS A34 Crawler Tractor/Dozer course equips operators with the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to carry out safe and efficient dozing, grading, excavation and earthmoving operations. Learners develop the ability to handle crawler dozers across varied terrain, including slopes, batters and challenging ground conditions, while maintaining full control, stability and environmental responsibility.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

• Apply essential health & safety practices, including hazard identification, communication protocols, safe working methods and compliance with legislation such as PUWER, HASWA and CDM
• Identify machine components, including tracks, undercarriage, blades, controls, safety systems (ROPS/FOPS) and visibility aids, explaining their functions and maintenance requirements
• Conduct thorough pre‑operational checks on systems such as hydraulics, powertrain, track tension, blade condition and all safety devices
• Use correct PPE and safe access/egress techniques, including working‑at‑height precautions around large machinery
• Prepare and configure the dozer for travel, adjusting controls, visibility systems, steering modes, and ensuring proper track tension and blade positioning
• Travel and manoeuvre safely over rough terrain, inclines, batters, restricted spaces and stockpile areas, maintaining machine stability and control
• Assess work areas, identifying ground conditions, proximity hazards, exclusion zones, overhead/underground services, and required communication with other workers
• Configure the dozer for dozing, levelling and grading, using correct blade types, positioning and techniques for tasks such as cutting, spreading, benching, battering and backfilling
• Carry out excavation to specification, achieving required tolerances, managing spoil placement, and adapting technique for different soil types and conditions
• Reinstate and level ground, applying correct compaction, spreading and finishing methods using appropriate attachments and control systems
• Operate with environmental awareness, reducing emissions, preventing pollution, and managing waste and spills effectively
• Prepare, load and unload the machine for transport, using safe ramp procedures, communication methods and securing techniques
• Shut down and secure the machine correctly, including isolation, anti‑vandalism measures and safe parking requirements

Pre-requisites

• Novice: The candidate does not hold a current industry recognised card within the plant category and/or has limited or no demonstrable practical experience of operating the category of plant in a construction environment. Experience of working on site and a basic knowledge of construction terminology would be beneficial.
• Experienced: The candidate holds a current industry recognised red card within the plant category or has equivalent experience. The trainer must decide and be able to demonstrate a thorough initial assessment and document their decisions for choosing the experienced route based on the candidate s knowledge and skills through a documented profiling approach.

Assessment Methods

For the successful completion of training, candidates must complete an end of course practical assessment and knowledge test that has a clear pass or fail criteria as set out by the CPCS scheme.

Additional Information

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, in good physical health, and capable of meeting the demands of practical training. An adequate level of English literacy is also required to fully engage with the course content and assessments. This course can also be offered as an in-house COTS Certification.