COURSE DETAILS

Training Course Type

  • On-site training and assessment
  • On-site Experience Worker Test (EWT) assessment only 

Novice Training Course Duration

1 Day

Novice Candidate Numbers

10

xperience Worker Tests per day

10

Variations

  • Manual quick hitch
  • Semi-automatic quick hitch
  • Automatic quick hitch

Card Options

  • 5-year NPORS traditional card & certificate
  • 2-year CSCS trained operator red card

Minimum Age

16

Instructor

Bertie Tupper & Tuppco instructors

FURTHER
INFORMATION

  • What is a quick hitch?

    A quick hitch is a device that is fitted to an excavator, backhoe, telehandler, lift truck for the purpose of rapidly mounting or dismounting attachments. They are also known as ‘quick couplers’. There are a number of different types of. Quick hitches including manual, semi-automatic and automatic.

  • What Does The Tuppco Training Course Include?
    • Have a basic understanding of the industry, the dangers of working in the industry and their responsibilities as a plant operator
    • Have a working Knowledge of the manufacturer’s handbook for the particular quick hitch to be used
    • Be able to locate and identify the major components of the Quick Hitch and explain their functions
    • Identify and maintain PPE appropriate for Quick Hitch us
    • Be able to explain the different types of Quick Hitch devices
    • Conduct all pre-operational checks in accordance with manufacturers and legislative requirements
    • Conduct all necessary Safety checks at the designated change over area
    • Fit and remove attachments safely and efficiently
    • Demonstrate and explain checks for attachment security
    • Carry out all end of shift and shut down procedures
  • Venue and Equipment Requirements:
    • Suitable and safe area to operate machinery
    • Machine with quick hitch 
    • A range of attachments
    • Suitable and safe area to complete paperwork
    • Suitable welfare facilities
    • Operators’ manual 
    • Risk assessment completed
  • Theory Assessment:
    • 8 written questions
    • 4 marks per question
    • 28 marks to pass
  • Practical Assessment criteria:
    • Pre use and operational checks
    • Attach and discontent attachments
    • Check attachments are coupled correctly
    • Park machine safely
  • Where Does Tuppco Deliver Onsite Courses?

    Tuppco proudly delivers on-site training courses across a wide region of the South and Central UK. From Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire to Reading, Oxford, and Swindon, our team provides expert, accredited instruction at your workplace using your own equipment. We specialise in NPORS plant training, Lantra land-based and machinery courses, and Qualsafe first aid and health & safety training. Businesses across Berkshire, the Cotswolds, Hampshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Buckinghamshire, Cheltenham, and Northamptonshire rely on Tuppco for flexible, professional training solutions that minimise downtime and maximise compliance.

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Objective Of Course

The aim of the NPORS Quick Hitch Awareness (N726) course is to ensure learners understand the safe operation, risks, and legal requirements surrounding quick hitch systems on excavators and plant machinery.

Key Course Objectives:
  • Understand the different types of quick hitch systems and how they operate
  • Identify hazards related to incorrect attachment fitting or system failure
  • Learn essential pre-use checks, safety steps, and lock verification
  • Understand the legal responsibilities of operators and supervisors
  • Recognise the importance of correct pin engagement and secure coupling
  • Learn best practices for safe attachment change procedures
  • Understand how to prevent accidental detachment and serious injury
  • Build confidence in supporting safe lifting and excavation operations

By the end of the course, learners will be able to identify risks, follow correct procedures, and support safe working practices when using quick hitch systems.

What Will Be Awarded

Upon successful completion of the NPORS Quick Hitch Awareness (N726) course with TUPPCO Training, learners will receive an NPORS N726 certificate, confirming essential knowledge and understanding of quick hitch systems, their safe use, and the risks associated with attachment changes on excavators and plant machinery.

Your Award Will Include:
  • Official NPORS N726 Certificate
  • Verified competence in safe quick hitch use and attachment awareness
  • Understanding of manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic quick hitch systems
  • Knowledge of common hazards, safety checks, and correct procedures
  • Skills to support safer lifting and excavation operations
Who the Award Is For:

Ideal for plant operators, groundworkers, supervisors, and anyone working with or around plant equipment who must understand safe attachment changes and quick hitch systems.

How Long The Course Can Take

The NPORS Quick Hitch Awareness (N726) course is concise, focused, and highly practical:

Course Duration Overview:
  • Typically ½ day to 1 day, depending on group size and experience
  • Covers theory sessions on quick hitch types, safety procedures, and legal responsibilities
  • Includes practical demonstrations of safe attachment fitting and verification
  • Ends with a formal NPORS theory assessment

Delivered by NPORS-certified TUPPCO Training instructors with real industry experience in excavation and plant safety.

TUPPCO Training delivers this course across the UK, including construction sites, civil engineering projects, industrial sites, and utilities environments.

Expert Training On Your Business Site

TUPPCO Training provides on-site Quick Hitch Awareness training, enabling your team to learn using your machinery, your attachments, and your real working environment.

Benefits of On-Site Training:
  1. Tailored to your attachments, quick hitch systems, and operational requirements
  2. Real-world demonstrations using your excavators and lifting equipment
  3. Reduces downtime and ensures direct site relevance
  4. Helps reinforce your company’s safety procedures and compliance needs
  5. Delivered by experienced NPORS-certified TUPPCO Training instructors
Suitable On-Site Locations Include:
  • Construction and demolition sites
  • Utilities and groundwork projects
  • Industrial and manufacturing plants
  • Agricultural and forestry sites
  • Civil engineering and infrastructure projects

TUPPCO Training covers the Cotswolds, Midlands, South West, and all areas across the UK.

FAQs

All FAQs
  • Do I Receive A Certificate & Skills Card?

    Yes! Upon successful completion of your course, you’ll receive an official certificate and skills card accredited by Lantra, NPORS or Qualsafe recognising your achievement and qualification.

  • What Areas Do We Cover?
    TUPPCO Training proudly provides expert first aid and workplace training across the Cotswolds, surrounding counties, and nationwide across the UK. We bring our trainers directly to your business, school, nursery, or organisation. Local Cotswold Areas We Cover- Cheltenham, Gloucester, Cirencester, Tewkesbury, Stroud, Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh, Bourton-on-the-Water Wider Regional & UK Coverage- We also cover Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire, and all areas across the UK, ensuring flexible, high-quality training wherever you are located. If your area isn’t listed, just get in touch—TUPPCO Training travels nationwide.
  • Where Do We Deliver Training?

    All training is delivered at your site, farm, or another suitable location. We tailor each session to your environment to ensure it’s relevant and practical. Specific arrangements can be discussed in more detail upon request.

  • Who Delivers Your Training?

    Our training is delivered by Bertie Tupper and a team of fully qualified instructors who are accredited by Lantra, NPORS or Qualsafe. Each trainer brings real industry experience and a passion for helping learners build practical skills and confidence.

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