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SA023 Banksman & Ground Support Services

SA023 Banksman & Ground Support Services

Safely manoeuvring plant & vehicle on-site including MEWPS

Smart Awards SA023 Banksman training in Lancashire gives learners the skills to safely guide and support MEWP and elevating platform operations. Utilities Training Limited delivers this course at our North West Training Centre using practical, hands-on training. As a result, learners improve workplace safety, communication, and coordination on-site.

This 1-day banksman course focuses on safe manoeuvring, hazard awareness, and clear communication. Learners support operators working at height and in restricted areas. Therefore, they help protect workers, equipment, and the public during lifting operations.

sa023 banksman ipaf spotter

Who Needs SA023 Banksman Training?

SA023 training suits:

  • Banksmen and signallers supporting MEWP operations
  • Ground support staff in utilities, civils, telecoms, and construction
  • Supervisors and team leaders managing work at height
  • New entrants moving into banksman roles

You do not need MEWP operator experience. However, this course supports anyone working around elevating platforms.

What You Will Learn

During this Smart Awards SA023 course, learners:

  • Identify safe areas for MEWP manoeuvres
  • Use approved hand signals and communication methods
  • Understand banksman responsibilities and site roles
  • Recognise different MEWP types and safety controls
  • Guide machines safely in restricted spaces
  • Identify hazards such as ground conditions, overhead services, and traffic
  • Apply health and safety regulations and best practice
  • Respond to incidents and emergencies effectively

Furthermore, learners build confidence through practical exercises and real-world scenarios.

Course Content and Certification

The course covers key topics such as health and safety legislation, risk assessment, and safe systems of work. Learners also develop skills in communication, site assessment, and safe positioning.

This qualification follows standards set by Smart Awards. You can find more details on Smart Awards official website (https://www.smartawards.co.uk), which opens in a new window.

Successful learners achieve the Smart Awards SA023 certificate, typically valid for three years.

Train with Utilities Training Limited

Choose SA023 Banksman training in Lancashire with Utilities Training Limited for expert instruction, small group sizes, and hands-on learning. We help you gain recognised certification, improve safety, and work confidently in MEWP environments.

Or Consider and e-learning option with IPAF

Frequently Asked Questions About

A banksman or ground support person is responsible for guiding plant and access equipment – in this case EPs/MEWPs – to move safely on site. They use agreed hand signals or radios to direct the operator, monitor hazards, keep exclusion zones clear and help prevent collisions, tip-overs or contact with services and structures.

The course takes up to 1-day

Smart Awards certificates for SA023 are typically valid for 3 years. After this period, a refresher or re-assessment is recommended so that your knowledge and skills stay aligned with current legislation and best practice.

No formal experience is required, but SA023 is aimed at people who already work, or intend to work, around EPs/MEWPs in utilities, civils or construction. Some understanding of site operations is beneficial, and those driving or operating the equipment must hold appropriate operator training and licences.

Yes. SA023 is widely used across telecoms, utilities and civils sectors and is recognised as an industry accreditation for banksman/ground support roles in these environments.

Delegates complete:

A theory assessment (often multiple-choice) to check understanding of hazards, responsibilities and safe working procedures

A practical assessment, where they demonstrate safe signalling, positioning and ground support during MEWP/EP manoeuvres

Yes – subject to a suitable training area, equipment and site conditions, SA023 can often be delivered on-site for groups of delegates. This allows us to train your staff in their real working environment. Contact us to discuss on-site delivery requirements and minimum numbers.

Delegates should attend with standard site PPE (typically safety boots, high-visibility vest/jacket, hard hat, gloves and eye protection). If your organisation has specific PPE standards, these should be followed.

We also offer the IPAF spotter course which is online only

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Approved & Accredited Training Provider

Utilities Training Limited (www.utilities.training) is a leading UK vocational training provider based in the North West, delivering high-quality, industry-recognised courses across a wide range of sectors. Specialising in street works, confined spaces, IPAF, NPORS, EUSR, and Smart Awards, the company is committed to equipping individuals and businesses with the skills needed to work safely and compliantly. With experienced instructors, modern facilities, and a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning, Utilities Training Limited has built a reputation for excellence, reliability, and supporting workforce development across the utilities and construction industries.

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