Highways England Urges More Firms to Join Game-Changing Passport Scheme
Highways England is ramping up the push for more suppliers to jump on board its innovative Passport scheme. Nearly 600 companies have already signed up, enjoying a streamlined approach to safety and training across all sites.
The government body is now targeting workers further down the supply chain to get their smartcards and boost safety standards nationwide.
What is the Passport Scheme?
The Passport scheme uses a simple smartcard proving workers have completed the Highways Common Induction. This induction covers the essential risks on Highways England sites in just 90 minutes. Once done, workers only need to tackle site-specific safety briefings, saving time and improving focus.
Mark Byard, Health and Safety Director at Highways England, said:
“Safety on our network is paramount, for the road user and for those working day and night. The Passport scheme ensures consistent training and competencies. It’s about making things efficient and backing our suppliers for the long haul. We want all suppliers to register and get their passport.”
Boosting Safety & Efficiency
The smartcard carries training records, qualifications, and competency details—physically or virtually—making it easier than ever for workers to prove their credentials on the go. Cards are valid for three years, with annual renewals.
Phil Clifton, Chair of the Supply Chain Safety Leadership Group, added:
“The Passport scheme is supported not only by Highways England but by the entire supply chain. It promises a positive safety impact and much-needed efficiency. The updated induction is user-friendly and fit for all company levels. Raising safety standards takes all of us.”
Contractors Applaud the Scheme
Nick Holt, Operations Director at WJ North Ltd, said:
“The online Highways England Passport scheme is brilliant. As a tier 2 contractor, our workers used to sit through full inductions at every site—even when they were very similar. Now, after completing the common induction, they just do short site-specific briefings, saving time and improving safety by staying sharp on actual risks.”
How to Get Your Passport
- Call the helpdesk: 0330 726 0225
- Email: [email protected]
- General enquiries: [email protected]
Don’t get left behind—sign up for your Highways England Passport today and put safety first on every site!
