Introduction

Sometimes referred to as a quick coupler, a quick hitch is a small but mighty piece of kit that allows operators to connect and change attachments on the excavator. Its simple yet effective design means attachments can be added and changed rapidly, meaning no loss in productivity time and making the excavator a truly multi-functional machine. 

However, accidents are increasing when using quick hitches, which is usually down to misuse and poor training.

This NPORS certification delivers the necessary skills, knowledge, and safe use of a quick hitch. It is specifically aimed at Plant Operators who require theory and practical based training and assessment to attach or work with machinery, which involves the operation of quick hitch systems in the construction industry.

Course Outline

With a mix of practical and theory-based exercises and tutorials, delegates will cover manufacturer and general knowledge and awareness of using a quick hitch with an excavator and participate in practical activities to recognise machine components and functions, best practices, and operating methods.

The course reflects national standards and industry best practices and is fully accredited in line with NPORS regulations. In addition, choose to learn with Citrus, and delegates benefit from our custom-built training facilities and customer-first approach.

Our occupationally and technically-experienced trainers guide delegates on this course, completing the session with a practical observation and short theory test. They must pass the assessment to qualify for:

• NPORS/CSCS Construction Plant Operator Card, valid for two years.

 Or

• Traditional Operators card, valid for three to five years depending on sector-specific or in-company requirements

Course Programme

This training is essential for workers to learn how to use a quick hitch safely and correctly. Delegates will review legal requirements, ensure safety compliance, and understand procedures and appropriate documentation and classifications.

The learnings will take delegates through:

• The different types of Quick Hitch
• The risks associated with Quick Hitch equipment
• Common failure modes and safety measures
• Legislation and regulations in relation to the Quick Hitch
• The operator manual and the manufacturer's recommendations

On Completion

At the end of the training, successful delegates will:

• Confidently identify risks associated with using a Quick Hitch
• Understand and implement failure modes and safety measures
• Conduct safe operations and best practices following regulations and legislation
• Identify and use different types of Quick Hitch
• Have working knowledge and understanding of the Operator Manual and Manufacturers recommendation

On successful completion of the course:

Construction industry delegates

Operators will receive a Trained Operator CSCS/NPORS Card valid for two years from the test date.

In order to upgrade your CSCS/NPORS card you need to achieve the requisite (S)NVQ with the units applicable to the category (S) of plant held on their trained operator card

Non-construction industry delegates

Anyone operating in industry sectors other than construction is not required to hold an operator card bearing the CSCS logo and can have the NPORS (Traditional) Operator Card. 

End users can select three or five-year registrations for this card depending on sector-specific or in-company requirements. 

Who Should Attend?

This Quick Hitch Citrus Certification is for Plant Operators who need practical and theory-based training and assessment for quick hitch awareness.

Course Duration

This comprehensive course trains delegates to safely and responsibly operate a Quick Hitch. The training options vary to accommodate novices and seasoned delegates:

Novice training – two-day with a maximum of four delegates  

Refresher training – one-day with a maximum of four delegates     

Assessment only - one-day with a maximum of six delegates 

One-to-one and group training sessions are available. Please get in touch with the team to find out more.

Why Citrus?

We dedicate our efforts to unrivalled quality and the customer experience at Citrus Training, working tirelessly to provide exemplary service to our clients and produce excellent results from our delegates. As a result, we are the leading UK-based provider of health, safety, and technical training and assessment services to the Built Environment and Utility sectors. 

We have over 30 specialist Plant and Lifting trainers and assessors, coaching and testing nationwide to meet any specific needs of our clients. With a wealth of experience and expertise, they have successfully trained over 25,000 delegates across the Plant and NVQ training categories.

Our facilities include six technical centres with the capacity for delivering Plant Training across the UK. And our national, accredited Training and Test Centres are fully equipped to provide CPCS and CSCS accredited courses. In addition, as an approved NPORS training provider, we can also offer on-site training and testing nationwide. 

Finally, as an Approved Training Organisation by CITB, we provide quality training that meets the industry-approved standards (ATO). 

Things You Need to Know

Delegates must have an Excavator NPORS Card to be able to take this course. 

This Citrus Certifed course has practical elements, so delegates must be medically fit to train. Therefore, they must inform their trainer if they have any serious health issues, physical problems, special considerations or are taking any medication, which may create difficulties in conducting elements of this training course. 

For training held at your location, please ensure that the classroom you make available has a power supply and is a suitable size for the number of delegates attending. In addition, please ensure that the practical area has been risk-assessed, is free from harm, and is ideal for training.  

If you are a CITB Levy payer, you can claim a CITB Grant for this course. Once you have booked please contact us with your CITB number and we can assist you in claiming the funds.