Based on reviews from major platforms
NRSWA Signing, Lighting & Guarding Course for Operatives
Build essential streetworks safety skills with the NRSWA Signing, Lighting & Guarding Unit 2 (Unit O1) course. Learn how to set up signage systems, manage traffic flow, and maintain safe roadwork environments. Complete the training and receive an SWQR card valid for 5 years.
Based on reviews from major platforms
Course Features
Learning Options
What is NRSWA Unit 2 Signing, Lighting & Guarding Training?
The NRSWA Unit O1 (formerly known as Unit 2) Signing, Lighting and Guarding course gives you the required certificate to set up traffic signs, lights, and safety barriers correctly. This program is designed specifically for beginners and novices just starting their careers in street work.
The training covers basic skills for managing traffic, installing safety signs, and protecting hazardous areas to meet industry standards. Whether you are a total newcomer or an entry-level operative, this course ensures you can safely and correctly manage roadworks and construction sites.
Who is This Course for?
This course is ideal for beginners and new entrants looking to gain the essential skills required to work safely on road and streetworks sites. If you're looking for training in signing, lighting, and guarding that builds a strong foundation, this course is the perfect starting point.
This SLG course (Unit 2/O1) is designed to help learners understand how to safely set up and manage traffic control systems in line with industry standards such as the Chapter 8 signing, lighting, and guarding guidelines and the Red Book.
It is perfect for:
- New entrants who want to start a career in streetworks or utilities
- Operatives who need to complete the NRSWA Unit O1 to achieve the Street Works qualification
- Construction or maintenance workers transitioning into streetworks roles
- Anyone responsible for setting up safe working zones on public highways using correct signing, lighting and guarding methods
By completing this signing, lighting, and guarding course, you will gain the knowledge and practical understanding needed to work safely, stay compliant, and progress within the streetworks industry.
What Will Be Covered in This Course?
The NRSWA Unit 2 (O1) Signing, Lighting and Guarding course provides practical and theoretical training to equip you with the skills required to safely set up and manage temporary traffic management systems on streetworks sites. This signing, lighting, and guarding training follows industry standards such as the Chapter 8 signing, lighting, and guarding guidelines and the Red Book.
The course includes the following key areas of study:
- Traffic Management Principles: Learn to control traffic flow safely using approved methods, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum safety for road users and workers.
- Use of Signs and Equipment: Understand how to select, position, and maintain roadwork signs, cones, and signals in line with legal requirements.
- Lighting Requirements: Learn how to use lighting systems on streetworks sites to maintain visibility during night work and in low-light or adverse weather.
- Guarding Techniques: Learn how to install and maintain barriers, fencing, and protective systems to secure work areas and protect workers and the public.
- Site Safety and Hazard Awareness: Identify common streetworks hazards and apply safe working practices to reduce risks and maintain a safe site environment.
- Regulations and Compliance: Understand your responsibilities under NRSWA signing, lighting and guarding, including compliance with Chapter 8 standards.
- Using the Red Book (Chapter 8): Learn how to read and apply the Red Book on-site to ensure all SLG setups meet required standards and remain compliant.
Entry Requirements
The NRSWA Unit O1 course is open to anyone aged 16 or over who is ready to learn essential roadside safety. You simply need a basic understanding of English to follow the safety guides and a physical comfort with moving cones and signs during the hands-on practice.
To participate safely, please bring a valid photo ID and your standard work gear, including a high-visibility vest, steel-toe boots, a hard hat, and gloves. Whether you are starting a new career or renewing your skills, we welcome you to join this straightforward, one-day program.
How Is the Course Assessed?
The NRSWA Unit 2 Signing, Lighting and Guarding course is assessed through a combination of practical and knowledge-based evaluations to ensure you can apply what you’ve learned in real on-site conditions.
During the course, you will:
- Complete a practical assessment, where you demonstrate the correct setup and use of signing, lighting, and guarding equipment in line with Chapter 8 guidelines.
- Take part in a short theory assessment to confirm your understanding of safety procedures, legal requirements, and best practices.
Both elements are designed to reflect real working environments, helping you build the confidence and competence needed to carry out streetworks safely and in compliance with industry standards.
What Will You Receive After Completing the Course?
After successfully completing the course, you will be registered on the Street Works Qualification Register (SWQR). This allows you to apply for an SWQR card, which confirms your competence to carry out signing, lighting, and guarding duties on public highways. The card is valid for 5 years and is widely recognised across the construction and streetworks industries.
✅With a 96% pass rate, you will be guided step by step by experienced instructors to help you pass with confidence.
How is this Course Delivered?
This course combines interactive classroom learning with practical, hands-on training to prepare you for real-world street environments. You will practise essential skills such as signage setup and traffic management, with assessments designed to confirm your competence.
Job Opportunities After Completing the Course
After completing the NRSWA Unit 2 Signing, Lighting & Guarding training, you can access a range of job opportunities across the streetworks, construction, and traffic management sectors. Common roles include:
- ✓Streetworks Operative
- ✓Traffic Management Operative
- ✓Site Supervisor
- ✓Highways Maintenance Worker
- ✓Construction Labourer
Why Book Hurak?
- ✓Expert training delivered by fully qualified instructors.
- ✓UK-recognised qualifications to boost your career path.
- ✓Simple online booking with instant course confirmation.
- ✓Low-cost training for individuals and groups nationwide.
- ✓Trusted by 100,000+ learners as a reliable choice.
🔍Looking for other NRSWA streetworks courses? Explore a range of specialised training options to enhance your skills and meet industry requirements.
Hear from our past customers
Key Highlights
- Covers essential skills for signing, lighting, and guarding on streetworks.
- Suitable for both new entrants and those already working in streetworks.
- Includes practical, hands-on training alongside classroom learning.
- Certification valid for 5 years and registered on SWQR.
- Helps meet industry and site compliance requirements.
- Improves employability across streetworks, utilities, and construction sectors.
Course content
Learning how to safely control and manage traffic flow around roadworks using approved methods.
Identifying different types of road signs and understanding when and where they should be used.
Practical guidance on positioning signs to ensure maximum visibility and effectiveness.
Understanding how lighting is used to maintain visibility during night-time and low-light conditions.
Using barriers, cones, and fencing to protect work areas and prevent unauthorised access.
Preparing learners for the practical and written assessments while ensuring compliance with industry requirements.
No Booking fee
We provide our services without any additional charges.
Approved providers only
All courses on our platform undergo thorough manual screening to ensure the utmost quality.
Buying for your team?
Purchases courses for team, family or colleagues. Add a course, and provide student details at checkout.
Pay by invoice
Choose “Business Customer” at checkout for access to this payment method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Unit O1 is the updated name for what was previously known as NRSWA Unit 2. While the code has changed, the course content still focuses on signing, lighting and guarding skills required for streetworks.
This course provides the qualification needed to safely set up traffic signs, barriers, and temporary signals on public highways. It is a key requirement for anyone carrying out streetworks in the UK.
This course is designed for operatives responsible for setting up and maintaining roadworks. It is suitable for those starting a career in streetworks as well as workers who need to gain or update their qualification.
No. This course is for operatives carrying out the work on-site. The Supervisor course is a separate qualification for those responsible for monitoring and overseeing streetworks.
No prior experience is required. The course is suitable for beginners and is open to anyone aged 16 or over with a basic understanding of English.
The Red Book is the official Code of Practice for safety at streetworks and roadworks. During the course, you will learn how to follow its guidance to ensure safe and compliant site setups.
The Signing, Lighting and Guarding course is typically completed in one day, including both the theory and practical assessments.
After passing, you will be registered on the Street Works Qualification Register (SWQR) and receive an operative card, which is usually valid for five years.
You must be at least 16 years old, have a basic understanding of English, and be physically able to carry out practical tasks such as handling cones and barriers.
You will need to bring a valid photo ID (such as a passport or driving licence) and appropriate PPE, including a high-visibility vest, safety boots, a hard hat, and gloves.
This course covers standard streetworks on public roads. Additional qualifications, such as NHSS training, may be required for working on high-speed roads or motorways.
Yes. You will learn how to safely use portable traffic signals and Stop/Go systems to manage traffic flow on-site.
To renew your qualification, you will need to complete a re-assessment course before your card expires, usually every five years.
