To ensure your team is fully compliant with the latest streetworks standards, consult a reputable training provider such as PGL Midlands. Staying updated on these standards is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding violations or fines. Providing your team with the correct training ensures they meet the latest requirements. As outlined in the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA), it is a legal requirement to have a qualified streetworks operative on-site at all times while streetworks are in progress. Much of this information is available online and guidance can be access via the official government website – Street works qualifications in England: guidance for operatives and supervisors.
Risks of Streetworks on Public Roadways
Public roadworks often pose several hazards that require pre-emptive risk management. Understanding roadway risks helps minimise and prevent accidents during streetworks for both workers and the general public.
The main risks for workers and pedestrians include vehicle collisions due to poorly marked work zones and unsecured equipment. Other significant risks involve traffic disruptions causing congestion and delays, fines and project stoppages from non-compliant streetworks, and environmental damage from poorly planned or mismanaged pollution and waste.
Identifying and preventing these risks is key to ensuring safe streetworks operations.
The Impact of Poor Streetworks Management
Poor planning and mismanagement of streetworks can lead to project delays, unnecessary disruptions, and increased costs. This can result in project stoppages and significant damage to your company’s reputation if accidents or injuries occur to the public. Effective management is important for maintaining safety and preserving public trust.
Real-World Example: Consequences of Streetworks Non-Compliance
Real-life cases highlight the importance of following streetworks regulations as non-compliance often leads to legal and financial penalties.
A few real-life examples of this can be seen in government streetworks projects. For instance, Norfolk Council issued half a million pounds in fines to companies for falling behind schedule due to poor planning. In this case, 300 sites took longer than the permitted timeframes allowed by the organizations’ permits.
Another instance involves Wandsworth Council, which is demanding Thames Water improve services in the coming months after issuing more than £500,000 in fines. Over 320 roadworks carried out by the water company exceeded their scheduled timeframes.
Steps to Safe and Compliant Streetworks
Safe streetworks begin with a clear understanding of compliance requirements and the necessary training for your staff to work safely on streetworks projects. Following structured steps ensures both their safety and regulatory compliance. Seek guidance from a reputable training provider like PGL Midlands for expert advice and training.
Additionally, it is important to conduct your own research, as much of the information is available on the official government website, which provides detailed guidance on streetworks qualifications in England for operatives and supervisors. Read our top three tips below for more insight.
Tip 1: Contractor Competence and Qualifications
Selecting qualified contractors ensures high-quality and compliant streetworks. Make sure your team has the correct training and certifications before starting a streetworks project. As mandated by the NRSWA (New Roads and Street Works Act, 1998), it is a legal requirement to have a qualified streetworks operative on-site at all times while streetworks are in progress.
Tip 2: Demand a Detailed Traffic Management Plan
- A clear traffic management plan reduces disruptions and ensures safety.
- Requesting detailed plans helps anticipate and address potential issues.
- Effective traffic management is crucial for smooth and compliant operations.
Tip 3: Assess Risk Management Plans Thoroughly
- Carefully reviewing risk management plans prevents avoidable safety issues.
- Comprehensive risk assessments are fundamental to successful streetworks.
- Evaluating plans in detail helps mitigate potential hazards effectively.
Making Safety a Priority in Streetworks
- Prioritizing safety protects workers, road users, and project timelines.
- Embedding safety protocols in every stage of streetworks enhances compliance.
- Safe streetworks practices are integral to maintaining public confidence.
Explore New Roads & Street Works (NRSWA) Training Options
- NRSWA training equips professionals with the knowledge to meet compliance standards.
- Exploring training options ensures teams are prepared for streetworks challenges.
- Investing in NRSWA training enhances both skills and regulatory adherence.
Hands-On Training at Our Birmingham Centre
- Practical training provides real-world experience to tackle streetworks scenarios.
- Our Birmingham Centre offers hands-on learning to ensure skill development.
- On-site training prepares participants for the complexities of streetworks tasks.
