In an industry where safety, competence and compliance matter more than ever, the Construction Fixings Association (CFA) continues to set the benchmark for best practice. Through its expanding suite of physical and online training courses, the CFA is equipping installers, supervisors and proof testers with the skills, certification and confidence required on modern UK construction sites.
With the introduction of a new e-learning platform and a refreshed 2025–2026 training calendar, the CFA is making accredited learning more accessible than ever, whether you're an experienced tester looking to re-certify or an installer gaining foundational competence.
Why CFA Training Matters
In the post-Building Safety Act environment, the industry has seen increased scrutiny on anchor installation, pull-testing and the correct selection of fixings. Mistakes in these areas can lead to project delays, structural defects, or safety risks — all of which are preventable with proper training.
CFA certification is widely recognised across contracting, engineering and inspection circles as the gold standard for fixings competency. Successful candidates receive:
- A CFA Certificate valid for 3 years
- A CFA Training ID Card (for physical courses)
- Hands-on, practical instruction from industry experts
- Up-to-date knowledge of standards, on-site procedures and safe operating practices
CFA Physical Training Courses (2025–2026)
These physical sessions are ideal for newcomers, hands-on operatives and anyone who needs assessed competency for site access or specialist works.
26 November 2025 – Advanced Tester Training
Location: EJOT, Leeds
A specialist course for experienced proof testers advancing into complex scenarios — high-load anchors, safety-critical fixings and interpreting load–displacement graphs.
Proof Testing of General Purpose Anchors
This core CFA programme focuses on correct testing technique, equipment use, recording results and understanding the limits of responsibility under BS 8539.
Upcoming dates:
- 26 November 2025 – Rite-Fix, Solihull
- 22 January 2026 – Rawlplug, Glasgow
- 12 February 2026 – Fischer, Wallingford
- 10 March 2026 – EJOT, Leeds
Each session covers:
- Pre-test inspection & health-and-safety checks
- Setting up test rigs correctly
- Understanding failure modes
- Recording, reporting & certification
- Avoiding common mistakes — overloading, eccentric loading, incorrect fixings selection
- What a tester is not allowed to certify (design, structural adequacy, or PW/TW engineering)
On-Demand E-Learning: Flexible, Fast, Fully Certified
For those renewing their skills, supervisors needing theory, or companies training teams at scale, the CFA’s new e-learning platform is a major upgrade.
Available anytime, anywhere:
Installer Training (Online)
Perfect for operatives responsible for drilling, setting, and installing mechanical or chemical anchors. Covers substrate types, edge distances, embedment depth, curing times, torque checks, and safe installation principles.
Supervisor Training (Online)
Aimed at site supervisors and managers overseeing fixings works. Focuses on quality assurance, correct selection of fixings, risk management, and site compliance.
Proof Tester Training (Online)
Ideal for testers needing refresher certification. Includes theory, equipment knowledge, testing sequences, documentation requirements, and compliance under BS 8539.
How to Register
Booking physical or online courses is quick and accessible through the CFA website:
👉 E-Learning Platform – On-demand, instant access
👉 Physical Courses – Limited spaces, early booking recommended
With the 2025–2026 calendar now live, contractors across the UK are encouraged to secure their places early to maintain compliance and raise technical standards on every project.
