CPCS A23 Skid Steer Loader
Course Overview
This CPCS-accredited A23 Skid Steer Loader course is designed for both novice and experienced operators working within the construction and plant industries. The training provides learners with the essential knowledge, skills, and practical competence required to operate a skid steer loader safely, efficiently, and in compliance with current legislation and manufacturer requirements.
The course covers machine preparation, safe operation, travelling and manoeuvring, loading and material handling, working on varying terrain, and end-of-shift shutdown procedures.
Available Dates
Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Explain health, safety, environmental, and legal responsibilities relevant to skid steer loader operations
- Identify hazards commonly found on construction sites and apply safe systems of work
- Interpret and extract essential information from manufacturers’ handbooks and operator manuals
- Identify major machine components, controls, warning systems, and safety features
- Conduct all required pre-operational, running, and post-operational checks
- Safely access and egress the skid steer loader using manufacturer-approved methods
- Prepare and configure the skid steer loader for site travel and operations
- Travel and manoeuvre the machine safely over varying terrain, gradients, and restricted spaces
- Safely load, unload, spread, level, and backfill materials using correct techniques
- Extract materials from stockpiles while maintaining stability and preventing collapse
- Work safely near overhead and underground services in accordance with regulations
- Load and unload the skid steer loader for transportation and carry out secure shutdown and isolation procedures
Pre-requisites
Interested individuals will follow either the Novice or Experienced route, depending on their existing knowledge and skills identified through documented profiling.
- 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
This course is assessed through a combination of classroom-based theory and hands-on practical training. Learners are evaluated via a written theory quiz and a practical skills assessment.
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.

Approved Centre
Course Title
CPCS A23 Skid Steer Loader
Location
COTS Railside / Client Site
Duration
Up to 10 Days
Max delegates
Up to 3
Length of certification
3 Years

