NRSWA Guide
The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA) governs every utility excavation in the UK public highway. This guide covers the key duties, the accreditation framework, and what contractors and operatives need to know to stay compliant.
What NRSWA regulates
NRSWA gives statutory undertakers (utility companies) the right to work in the highway, in return for strict duties on notice, signing/lighting/guarding, reinstatement quality and inspection compliance. Every operative and supervisor on a streetworks site must hold the right NRSWA accreditation.
Operative vs supervisor units
Operatives need units 1–4 (location, signing, excavation, reinstatement). Supervisors need units 10, 11 and 12 (the equivalent supervision modules). Cards are valid for 5 years and lose validity immediately on expiry.
Inspections and Section 74 charges
Highway authorities run a programme of NRSWA inspections — A (during work), B (between completion and end of guarantee) and C (during the guarantee period). Failed inspections trigger remedial costs and reputational damage. Overrunning works can attract Section 74 charges.
Common questions
Frequent NRSWA queries from operatives and contractors.
Who needs NRSWA accreditation?
Anyone working in the public highway on a utility excavation — operatives, supervisors and even some plant operators. The minimum is the relevant operative or supervisor units.
How long is an NRSWA card valid?
Five years from the date of issue. The expiry date is printed on the card and is rigorously checked at site access.
Can a supervisor card cover operative duties?
No. Supervisor and operative units are registered separately, so a supervisor doing hands-on work needs the operative units as well. Many supervisors hold both.