NRSWA Reassessment Course

A Streetworks certificate, issued after completing a NRSWA (New Roads and Street Works Act) course, typically lasts for 5 years. This applies to both operatives and supervisors who have successfully completed their initial training or refresher courses. The certification period ensures that all street works professionals remain up-to-date with current regulations, safety standards, and best practices.

Upon nearing the expiration of the 5-year period, individuals must undertake a refresher or reassessment course to renew their certification and continue working legally on public highways.

To renew your Streetworks ticket (NRSWA card), follow these steps:

• Check Expiry Date: It is crucial to know the expiry date of your current NRSWA card to ensure timely renewal. You can renew your card at any time from the first year of the card’s life up to five years after the card has expired for England and Scotland. For Northern Ireland and Wales, you can apply for re-registration up to three months after the card's expiry date. Renewing before the card expires helps avoid any lapse in qualification that could affect your ability to work on street works sites.
• Select an Appropriate Course: Choose between the following options based on your experience and confidence in the material:
• 1-Day Refresher Course: This course is typically a straight-to-test format without additional training, suitable for those confident in their knowledge and experience.
• 2-Day Refresher Course: This course includes some refresher training before the test, ideal for those who need a brief review of the material to refresh their skills and knowledge.
• Book a Reassessment Course: Search for the most appropriate course by location and price range to find one that fits your needs and schedule. Make sure to compare different options to get the best value and convenience.
• Complete the Reassessment: Attend the reassessment course, which includes:
• Multiple Choice Tests: Each unit you are renewing requires a 45-minute multiple-choice test. You need to pass these tests to renew your certification.
• Practical Demonstrations: Depending on the provider, you might also need to demonstrate practical skills.
• Receive Your New Card: Upon passing the reassessment, you will receive a new Streetworks card valid for another 5 years. This card is issued by the Street Works Qualifications Register (SWQR) and will list all the units you have been certified in.

The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA) accreditation is a certification process that ensures operatives and supervisors involved in street works are trained and competent to perform their duties safely and in compliance with UK legislation. The accreditation is vital for maintaining the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of street works on public highways.

Key Points about NRSWA Accreditation:

Legislative Background:

The NRSWA 1991 is a UK Act of Parliament that provides the framework for street works carried out by utility companies and other organisations. The Act sets out the requirements for the planning, execution, and reinstatement of street works to minimise disruption and ensure public safety.

Training and Certification:

The accreditation involves comprehensive training courses for both operatives (those performing the works) and supervisors (those overseeing the works). The courses cover various aspects of street works, including excavation, reinstatement, traffic management, and safety procedures.

Upon successful completion of the training and assessments, participants receive a Streetworks card, commonly known as the NRSWA card, issued by the Street Works Qualifications Register (SWQR) .

Assessment and Reassessment:

Initial accreditation involves practical and theoretical assessments to ensure competency. To maintain the accreditation, operatives and supervisors must undertake refresher courses and reassessments every five years.

The reassessment process includes updated training on any changes in legislation, best practices, and new technologies relevant to street works.

Units of Competence:

The NRSWA accreditation is divided into several units of competence, each focusing on specific skills and knowledge areas. These units include:

• Location and avoidance of underground apparatus
• Signing, lighting, and guarding
• Excavation in the highway
• Reinstatement of backfill materials
• Reinstatement of various surface materials (bituminous, concrete, modular).

Regulatory Compliance:

Holding a valid NRSWA accreditation is a legal requirement for anyone involved in street works in the UK. It ensures that all street works are conducted to the required standards, reducing the risk of accidents, minimising public disruption, and ensuring the integrity of public highways.

Yes, there is a grace period for renewing your NRSWA Streetworks card, but it varies depending on the region you work in:

England and Scotland

• Re-assessment Requirement: If you work in England or Scotland, you must take a re-assessment with a Centre.
• Timing for Re-assessment: The re-assessment can be taken any time between the first year of the ID card's life and up to five years after the card has expired.
• Validity of Expired Card: Once the expiry date on the card has passed, the card is no longer valid and must be renewed through re-assessment.

Northern Ireland and Wales

• Re-registration Requirement: You need to re-register your qualifications every five years as per your ID card.
• Timing for Re-registration: You may apply for re-registration after the first year of the card’s life and up to three months after the card's expiry date.
• Example: If your card expired on 01/01/2021, the last date to re-register is 01/04/2021

It is recommended to apply six months before the card expiry date to allow sufficient time for processing and resolving any issues. If you apply after the three-month expiry period, a new ID card cannot be issued, and you will need to undertake a new assessment and submit a new Initial Application.