What Is Signing, Lighting and Guarding (SLG)?

SLG training covers the knowledge and practical skills required to correctly set up signing, lighting and guarding arrangements at a streetworks site. This includes the placement of traffic signs, cones, barriers, and lighting to protect both the workforce and the travelling public.

The training is based on Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual, which sets out the standards and requirements for temporary traffic management in the UK.

Candidates learn how to plan and implement the correct signing scheme for various types of road, interpret traffic management drawings, and ensure arrangements are maintained safely throughout the duration of the works.

SLG is a unit within the NRSWA framework, not a separate qualification. It is studied as part of both the Operative and Supervisor streetworks courses.

However, SLG can also be taken as a standalone course. This is relevant for workers who may need to set up roadworks signing but whose primary role does not require the full streetworks qualification — for example, maintenance crews working at the edge of a carriageway.

Standalone SLG courses are available at both operative and supervisor level.

At operative level, SLG training focuses on the practical setup and removal of traffic management arrangements. Candidates learn to work safely within a signed site and to correctly implement a given signing scheme.

At supervisor level, the training goes further. Supervisors must be able to plan signing schemes, make risk-based decisions about the arrangements needed, and take responsibility for ensuring that the signing is suitable for the conditions and complies with the relevant standards.

SLG training is required for anyone involved in setting up or managing traffic management for roadworks on the public highway. This includes utility operatives, streetworks gangs, maintenance crews, and supervisors.

It is one of the most widely required streetworks units and is a mandatory part of most utility contractor inductions.

If you work on or near the public highway and are involved in any aspect of roadworks signing, you are likely to need SLG accreditation.

SLG training combines classroom-based learning with practical assessment. Candidates are assessed on their knowledge of Chapter 8 requirements and their ability to correctly interpret and set up traffic management arrangements.

Assessment includes both theory and practical elements, and candidates must demonstrate competence before accreditation is awarded.

Apollo QA delivers SLG training at both operative and supervisor level, with courses scheduled regularly across our East Midlands training centres.