Introduction to NRSWA Dual Cards

Introduction to NRSWA Dual Cards

NRSWA dual cards are designed for individuals who need to perform both operative and supervisory roles in street works. These cards certify that the holder is competent in the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake and oversee street works activities safely and effectively. The dual card scheme aims to enhance flexibility and efficiency on-site by enabling personnel to switch between operative and supervisory duties as required.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a NRSWA dual card, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Experience: Relevant experience in street works operations and supervision is required.
• Training: Successful completion of both operative and supervisor training units.
• Assessment: Passing the assessments for the specific units required for dual certification.

Required Units for Dual Cards

Candidates must complete a combination of operative and supervisor units to obtain dual certification. The specific units required are as follows:

Operative Units

• Unit 1 (LA): Location and avoidance of underground apparatus.
• Unit 2 (O1): Signing, lighting, and guarding.
• Unit 3 (O2): Excavation in the highway.
• Unit 4 (O3): Reinstatement and compaction of backfill materials.
• Unit 5 (O4): Reinstatement of sub-base and road base in non-bituminous materials.
• Unit 6 (O5): Reinstatement in cold-lay bituminous materials.
• Unit 7 (O6): Reinstatement in hot-lay bituminous materials.
• Unit 8 (O7): Reinstatement of concrete slabs.
• Unit 9 (O8): Reinstatement of modular surfaces and concrete footways.

Supervisor Units

• Unit 1 (LA): Location and avoidance of underground apparatus.
• Unit 10 (S1): Monitoring signing, lighting, and guarding.
• Unit 11 (S2): Monitoring excavation in the highway.
• Unit 12 (S3): Monitoring reinstatement and compaction of backfill materials.
• Unit 13 (S4): Monitoring reinstatement of sub-base and road base in non-bituminous materials.
• Unit 14 (S5): Monitoring reinstatement in bituminous materials.
• Unit 15 (S6): Monitoring reinstatement of concrete slabs.
• Unit 16 (S7): Monitoring reinstatement of modular surfaces and concrete footways.

Assessment Process

The assessment process for NRSWA dual cards includes:

• Theory Assessment: Written tests to evaluate understanding of street works regulations, safety procedures, and technical knowledge.
• Practical Assessment: On-site evaluations to assess the ability to perform operative and supervisory tasks to the required standard.

Assessments are conducted by accredited NRSWA training providers and are designed to ensure candidates demonstrate both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for their roles.

Benefits of Dual Certification

Holding dual certification offers several benefits:

• Increased Flexibility: Ability to perform both operative and supervisory roles as needed, reducing the need for additional personnel.
• Enhanced Employability: Dual certification can improve job prospects and career progression opportunities within the street works sector.
• Improved Site Efficiency: Having personnel with dual skills can streamline operations and enhance overall productivity on-site.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensures that both operatives and supervisors are fully compliant with NRSWA regulations and standards.

Renewal and Recertification

NRSWA dual cards are valid for a specific period, typically five years. However, the dual card issued by the Street Works Qualifications Register (SWQR) will have an expiry date of five years from the operative course that has the earliest expiry date, not the expiry date of the supervisor course. To renew the certification, candidates must:

• Attend Refresher Training: Complete refresher courses for both operative and supervisor units.
• Pass Reassessment: Successfully pass the reassessment tests to demonstrate continued competency in street works operations and supervision.

If you wish to obtain a full 5-year card rather than a dual card for a qualification, you will need to contact SWQR on 0345 213 5000 prior to taking a course to inform them that you wish to forfeit the original qualification.

NRSWA dual cards are a valuable asset for professionals in the street works sector, providing the skills and certification needed to perform and oversee essential street works activities. By meeting the scheme’s rules and requirements, individuals can enhance their career opportunities, improve site operations, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. For further information or to start your dual certification journey, contact us – an accredited NRSWA training provider.