CPCS Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CPCS exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CPCS Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CPCS Topics to Study (44)
✍️ Sample CPCS Questions & Answers
1. How often must lifting equipment that is used for lifting persons be thoroughly examined under LOLER?
Under LOLER Regulation 9, lifting equipment used for lifting persons must be thoroughly examined by a competent person at least every 6 months. This more frequent interval reflects the higher risk when people's lives depend directly on the equipment's integrity.
2. Under BS 7121, what must happen before any lifting operation with a crane commences?
BS 7121 and LOLER 1998 require that every lifting operation is properly planned by a competent person. The lift plan must assess the load weight, ground conditions, radius, environmental factors, and identify suitable equipment and exclusion zones.
3. Before placing a crane on outriggers, what ground investigation should be carried out?
Before deploying outriggers, the ground must be checked for underground services and voids, and the ground bearing capacity must be confirmed as sufficient for the specific outrigger point loads.
4. What colour is the CPCS trained operator card issued before NVQ Level 2 competence is achieved?
The red CPCS card is the trained operator card issued to those who have completed training but not yet achieved the NVQ Level 2 qualification required for the competence (blue) card.
5. What should an operator check on the plant's attachment or working tool during a pre-use inspection?
Attachment checks confirm it is securely fitted, free from cracks or significant wear, and correctly rated for the planned task. An insecure or damaged attachment can detach unexpectedly, creating serious hazard.
6. When determining the centre of gravity of a load, why is this information critical for the slinger?
Positioning the hook directly above the centre of gravity ensures the load hangs level and stable during the lift, preventing dangerous swinging or tilting.