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.
📅 Booking the NRSWA Signing, Lighting & Guarding Course for Your Team? We offer on-site training at your location to reduce travel time. Simply share your team size and preferred dates, and we will organise everything for you.
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.