Crane Supervisor (A62 / N405)

This Crane Supervisor NVQ is entirely evidence-based and focused on proving your competence in planning and controlling lifting operations. Instead of taking another test, you’ll demonstrate how you supervise lifts day to day by submitting clear photos and short videos of your normal work — for example, checking lift plans, briefing the slinger/signaller team, giving signals, monitoring the lift, and completing the necessary sign-off documentation.

You’ll also include genuine site paperwork such as approved lift plans, RAMS, daily briefing sheets and lifting accessory inspection logs. Every NVQ also includes a short expert witness statement from an Appointed Person or Site Manager who has observed you supervising live lifts safely and competently. All of this can be uploaded to our secure online ePortfolio whenever it suits you.

Your assessor reviews each upload carefully, providing feedback and confirming that the evidence is authentic, complete and clearly demonstrates your ability to control lifting operations in line with current regulations and site procedures. If needed, they may ask for additional evidence or decide to carry out a short on-site observation to verify specific elements.

Once your evidence is ready, you’ll have a one-to-one discussion with your assessor — usually over a video call — where you’ll talk through your work, the planning and communication processes you follow, and how you ensure lifts are carried out safely. It’s not a test; it’s a structured, recorded discussion based on your real site experience.

After the discussion, your assessor completes a detailed Observation Report and verifies your evidence before signing off the NVQ for certification. Around a week later, you’ll receive your electronic certificate so you can upgrade your CPCS or NPORS card.

No classrooms, no written exams — just clear, verified proof of the work you already do.

Below are a few examples of the kinds of questions an assessor may ask during the professional-discussion for the Level 4 Crane/Lifting Operations Supervisor NVQ:

Assessor: How do you make sure a lift can go ahead safely when ground conditions change after heavy rain?

Learner: I pause the operation, re-check the outrigger or track loadings against the lift plan, inspect the set-up area for soft spots, and confirm bearing pressure with the Appointed Person. If necessary I have the area re-sheeted or the crane repositioned before giving the team a revised briefing.

Assessor: Which personal protective equipment must the lifting team wear, and why?

Learner: Hard hats with chin straps for overhead loads, high-vis so the crane operator can pick out hand signals, safety boots for foot protection, and cut-resistant gloves when handling wire rope. We also use radios with earpieces so instructions are clear over plant noise.

Assessor: How does following the lift plan improve productivity as well as safety?

Learner: The plan sets the sequence of lifts, load weights, landing zones and communication signals. Sticking to it avoids re-rigging or moving the crane unnecessarily, keeps haul routes clear for deliveries, and lets the crane work continuously without unplanned stoppages—so lifts happen first time and the programme stays on schedule.