RTITB Vehicle-Mounted Hydraulic Lorry Loader training (commonly known as HIAB training) equips operators with the skills to safely use hydraulic cranes mounted on commercial vehicles. These loaders are essential in construction, logistics, and haulage for lifting and transporting heavy goods directly from a truck.
Course Durations
As of 2026, training length is determined by the operator's prior experience level:
Novice Course: Typically 2–3 days for those with no prior crane experience.
Experienced Operator: 1–2 days for those who have used a loader crane informally but lack certification.
Refresher Course: 1 day for currently certified operators renewing their registration, usually required every 3 years.
Conversion Course: 1–2 days for operators already certified on similar lifting equipment.
Core Syllabus
The course blends theoretical classroom learning with practical hands-on exercises:
Regulatory Compliance: Understanding duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER, and LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations).
Machine Familiarization: Introduction to hydraulic systems, controls, and various attachments such as hooks, brick grabs, or bucket grabs.
Stability & Siting: Correct deployment of stabilizer legs and selecting suitable operating areas to prevent truck or load instability.
Practical Operation: Learning to safely lift, slew, lower, and precisely place loads at varying distances.
Slinging & Signaling: Basic instruction on using lifting gear and interpreting signals from slingers or banksmen.
Pre-Use Inspection: Conducting daily safety-critical checks and identifying hydraulic or structural defects.
Assessment and Certification
To qualify, candidates must pass three mandatory assessments:
Written Theory Test: Covers safety codes, legislation, and operational theory.
Pre-Use Inspection Test: A practical demonstration of mandatory daily machine checks.
Basic Operating Skills Test: A practical exam requiring the safe completion of set lifting and maneuvering tasks.
Successful delegates are registered on the National Operator Registration Scheme (NORS) and receive an RTITB eCertificate and eCard, which are valid for three years.