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What Is a CPCS A59 Qualification?

A59 covers 360 excavators above 10 tonnes. See how it differs from A58 and how to qualify.

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A59 is the CPCS category for 360 excavators above 10 tonnes. These are the larger machines used for bulk digging, deep foundations and heavy lifting with the right set-up.

For smaller machines, there is A58, which covers 360 excavators below 10 tonnes. Many operators hold both.

A58 vs A59

A58A59
Machine sizeBelow 10 tonnesAbove 10 tonnes
Typical jobsTrenches, landscaping, small groundworksBulk dig, deep excavations, loading
EndorsementsCan include tracked, wheeled and lifting dutiesCan include tracked, wheeled and lifting duties

Getting your A59 card

  1. HS&E testOperatives level, last two years.
  2. Training or experienced testNovices train first. Experienced operators book the tests.
  3. Theory and practicalWith a CPCS tester on the right size of machine.
  4. Red cardCoteca applies for you at £55 + VAT.
  5. Blue cardComplete an NVQ Level 2 while on the red card.

Lifting with an excavator If you will lift loads with the excavator, make sure your test includes the lifting endorsement. A site lift plan will check for it.

Learn more about the job in what a 360 excavator operator does and how to become a qualified excavator operator.

Common mistakes with excavator categories

Excavator cards are split by machine type and size. Choosing the wrong category can mean holding a card that does not cover the machines on your site.

  • Not checking the machine weight. Ask which size of excavator you will operate before you book.
  • Forgetting lifting duties. If you will lift loads with the excavator, check whether your training and card cover lifting operations.
  • Weak services awareness. Questions about underground services and safe digging come up in the theory test.
  • Letting the red card expire. The trained operator card lasts two years and cannot be renewed.

A worked example

If you start on mini diggers for landscaping, then move to larger 360 machines on groundworks, you may need a different category. Plan for the machines you want to run in the next two years, not just the one you are on today.

Your next steps

  1. Confirm the machine type and weight you will operate.
  2. Pass the CITB HS&E test.
  3. Book the matching excavator category.
  4. Pass the theory and practical tests.
  5. Complete your NVQ to upgrade to the blue card.

Useful links

See CPCS coursesBook the CITB HS&E testRead the CPCS guide

Book CPCS training with Coteca

Tell us the machine you operate and what you hold now. We will book your HS&E test, training and CPCS tests, then apply for your card.

See CPCS coursesCall 0208 099 4324

Frequently asked questions

What machine does A59 cover?

360 excavators above 10 tonnes.

What is the difference between A58 and A59?

A58 covers 360 excavators below 10 tonnes. A59 covers machines above 10 tonnes.

Can I lift with an A59 card?

Only if your card includes the lifting endorsement for that machine.

How long does the red card last?

Two years, not renewable.

Related guides

CPCS guide bannerCPCS guideCPCS training, tests, categories and cards.What Does a 360 Excavator Operator Do?What Does a 360 Excavator Operator Do?What does a 360 excavator operator do? Daily tasks, the skills you need, the CPCS A58 a....How to Become a Qualified Excavator OperatorHow to Become a Qualified Excavator OperatorHow to become a qualified excavator operator.

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