The course covers key areas of a banksman's role, including helping to maintain the control measures put in place by their employer, effectively instructing and guiding drivers and operators when other controls are not sufficient for reducing the risks, and keeping the work area free from pedestrians and others who may be harmed. It explains how to use the signals set out in the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, which banksmen commonly use to help direct drivers and operators.

Note that the course is designed to support practical, work activity and work environment specific training that banksmen must receive beyond this course. It can also act as a refresher for those who have already received practical training.