Introduction

The NPORS N107 Lorry Loader course delivers the foundational theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills required to safely operate vehicle-mounted loader cranes (commonly known as HIABs).

Learning Outcomes

1. Have a basic understanding of the industry, the dangers of working in the industry and their responsibilities as a plant operator
2. Have a working knowledge of the manufacturer’s handbook and other sources of information, regulations and legislation applicable to the particular machine to be used
3. Be able to locate and identify the major components of the vehicle and loader crane and explain their functions
4. Be able to locate and identify all operating controls and explain their functions
5. Conduct all pre-operational checks in accordance with manufacturers and legislative requirements
6. Configure the vehicle and loader crane ready for travel
7. Configure the machine for travel and manoeuvre it safely across varying terrain in open and confined areas
8. Conduct all necessary safety checks at the work area
9. Manoeuvre the machine to the work area and correctly configure in readiness to carry out lifting duties
10. Correctly deploy the stabilisers according to stated manufacturer’s specifications – including differing variations of stabilisers (e.g. swing-up)
11. Comply with all requirements for rated capacity indicator / limiter or load moment indicators
12. Identify weights and centres of gravity of loads to be used
13. Carry out lifting operations using the full capabilities of the loader crane
14. Position loads accurately at designated locations including onto and from the vehicle
15. Identify, fit and remove various attachments and lifting accessories as appropriate
16. Minimise load swing and ensure load security on the vehicle
17. Carry out all end of shift and shut down procedures

 Course Contents

Theory

The classroom portion covers safety legislation, crane stability parameters, rigging and how to operate the lorry loader safely.

1. Legislative Framework: Learning the core requirements of HASAWA 1974, PUWER, LOLER, CDM regulations, and BS 7121 Part 4.
2. Stabiliser Safety & Risk: Understanding different outrigger setups, structural packing, and the fatal crushing risks associated with “swing-up” leg deployment near fixed controls.
3. Load Charts & Limitations: Deciphering manufacturer duty charts, boom angles, and the exact meaning of Hydraulic Outreach and Radius.
4. Slinging & Gear Metrics: Identifying standard rigging, checking shackle integrity, and managing wet or water-logged loads.
5. Site Hazard Controls: Assessing risk variables like soft or sloping ground, buried services, and minimum exclusion margins from high-voltage (132 kV) overhead power lines.
6. Safe operation: How to operate a lorry loader crane safely.

Practical

The practical examination challenges operators to configure the vehicle, test safety limits, and manipulate multiple load categories within a strict 1-hour and 20-minute timeframe.

1. Pre-Operational Inspections: Executing mandatory component checks across machine components as per pre-use inspection checklist.
2. Siting & Levelling Setup: Positioning the vehicle securely on firm ground, deploying timber packing blocks, and extending stabiliser legs fully to level the chassis.
3. Testing Indicators: Testing and monitoring the functionality of the onboard Rated Capacity Indicator / Limiter (RCI/L) prior to active lifts.
4. Lifting Maneuvers: Successfully completing various kinds of lifting activities as per NPORS guidelines.
5. Lorry Bed Placement: Lifting, moving, and securely placing all test loads onto and off the lorry bed while matching strict placement tolerances within 100mm of the landing marks.
6. Slinger Signaller Liaison: Synchronizing movement smoothly alongside a certified slinger signaller using correct hand signals conforming to BS 7121.
7. Transport Securing & Shutdown: Folding the crane jib, pinning/locking all stabiliser beams into travel configuration, disengaging the PTO, removing the key, and isolating the control deck.