Nearly 600 companies have already signed up for the Passport Scheme which delivers a more efficient and consistent approach to safety and training across all sites
Highways England is encouraging more to sign up, especially those in the lower tiers of the supply chain.
Highways Common Induction
The improved ‘Highways Common Induction‘ is now being developed online and covers the common risks faced when working on Highways England sites in just over 1.5 hours.
This means those who have registered and done the training only need to focus on site-specific safety briefings when they visit site and last for three years.
Alongside this training, a passport ‘smartcard’ will be issued to the individual who will be able to carry around their training record, qualifications and competency details in their pocket wherever they work.
In the current climate, you can also get a virtual card.
Providing some much-needed efficiencies
Mark Byard, health and safety director, Highways England said: “Safety on our network is paramount, for the road user and for those out there working on it, day and night.
“The Highways England Passport Scheme is all about ensuring consistency in training and competencies, making things more efficient and supporting our suppliers in the long-term.
The passport itself, a simple smartcard, provides proof of competencies and demonstrates that the holder has completed the Highways Common Induction.
“We are encouraging all our suppliers to register for their passport.”
Phil Clifton, chair of the supply chain safety leadership group (SCSLG), commented: “The Passport Scheme is endorsed by both Highways England and the Supply Chain Safety Leadership Group which collectively supports the scheme through its belief that not only will it have a positive impact on safety but will also provide some much-needed efficiencies.
“The scheme and induction have been revised and improved following extensive consultation to make it easier to use and suitable for all companies.
“Getting through proof of concept and moving to full implementation has only been possible by the supply chain and Highways England working together with the primary objective to drive up standards for safety.
“It takes all of us to create the environment for a positive safety culture and I encourage everyone to register for their passport.”
