Highways England has called for more members of its supply chain to register for its Passport scheme.

It said nearly 600 companies have already signed up for the scheme, ‘which delivers a more efficient and consistent approach to safety and training across all sites', but wants more people from in the lower tiers of the supply chain so sign up.

Health and safety director Mark Byard said: ‘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, said: ‘It takes all of us to create the environment for a positive safety culture and I encourage everyone to register for their passport.'

Highways England said 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 a site.

A passport smartcard will be issued, to be renewed annually. This allows workers to carry their training record, qualifications and competency details in their pocket wherever they work. A virtual card is also available.

To register for training and your passport card, you can contact: