NRSWA - Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing which NRSWA qualification to do is easy. There are two main distinctions – operative and supervisor. The operative is the person who will be completing tasks such as excavations and backfills. The supervisor is the person that will be overseeing the operative in these tasks.

Can I be a supervisor and an operative?

Delegates are eligible to train in both supervisor and operative courses. To do this you must take each course separately. Please be aware that while it is ok to swap between the operative and supervisors role at different times, if you hold these qualifications, it is not recommended that you attempt both rolls at the same time, as this may compromise the health and safety of the project.

Which units do I need?

Most training providers offer the core NRSWA courses which include modules 1-6+9 for operatives and 1, 10 -14 + 16 for supervisors. Many training providers also offer individual modules. These can be completed by joining the week course, for the relevant day only and usually are charged at a reduced cost. 

Can I do the rarer units?

The rarer units 7 and 8 for operatives and unit 15 for supervisors are offered in a reduced number of locations throughout the UK. You will need to complete operatives’ units 7 and 8 as well as the other units if you need the following qualifications 03 Reinstatement – hot and cold lay bituminous materials (Made up of units 1, 2, 6 and 7) and O4 Reinstatement of concrete slabs (made up of units 1, 2, and 8). If you need to complete one or all of these modules, contact an online service provider. They will have access to information on which trainers and in which locations these courses are delivered. They can also compare price quotes for you, saving you considerable time and effort in your search. 

What qualifications will I get?

As an operative, if you completed the most regular grouping of units, that is 1-6 + 9, it would get you for the following qualifications: 

Qualification O1: Excavation in the road/ Highway (made up of units 1, 2 and 3). 

Qualification O2: Excavation, backfilling and reinstatement of cold lay (made up of qualifications 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) Reinstatement of modular surfaces and concrete footways (made up of units 1, 2, and 9) 

Qualification O5 : Reinstatement of modular surfaces and concrete footways (made up of modules 1, 2 and 9) Qualification O6 : Signing , Lighting and Guarding, (made up of unit 2). 

Will I get a NRSWA card? 

Recent changes in the NRSWA system, mean that getting a card to show on site is even easier than before. You do need to gain a qualification to get a NRSWA card. However as Unit 2 and 10 Singing, Lighting and Guarding is now viewed as a qualification in its own right, you may gain a card with as little as this single module. Please remember though, other qualifications require more than one module.