SignLink speaks to Linda Edwards from the BSGA following the launch of the new SICCS Provisional Card for commercial signage installers, which is designed to provide compliant site access
The British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA), in partnership with the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS), has officially launched the SICCS Commercial Signage Installer – Provisional Card.
The SICCS is the Shopfitting and Interior Contracting Competence Scheme (SICCS) and is managed by NAS, a member of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Alliance Partnership, making NAS the only licensed CSCS partner authorised to issue the new card.
The digital-only SICCS card provides operatives in the signage and shopfitting sectors with safe, compliant site access while they work towards a full qualification, aiming to support professional development and building confidence on site.
In addition, the card gives site managers a structured way to assess skills and competence against a recognised, fit for purpose framework, helping to ensure that operatives are both technically capable and professionally recognised.
Speaking of its launch, Linda Edwards, managing director of the BSGA, says: “I am delighted to champion a new initiative that strengthens operational competence and professionalism across our industry, by launching the SICCS Commercial Signage Installer - Provisional Card in partnership with NAS.
“This digital-only credential provides installers within the signage and shopfitting sectors safe, compliant site access whilst individuals work towards a full qualification. More than just a site access tool, it anchors an individual’s professional growth, supports stakeholder confidence on site, and provides site management with a clear, structured pathway to assess skills and competence against a recognised, fit-for-purpose framework.”
Following the announcement, Edwards spoke exclusively to SignLink, in order to outline the benefits and goals of the new provisional card:
Why does this matter for the signage industry?
Historically, signage installers could gain a CSCS card through NVQ Level 2 units in sign-making, with separate categories for illuminated and non-illuminated sign installers. Whilst many operatives have benefited from this route, completing these qualifications has become increasingly challenging due to practical and resource constraints. The new provisional SICCS card addresses this, offering an accessible, structured pathway to verified competence and continued professional development, ensuring operatives maintain uninterrupted site access and formal recognition of their skills.
How does this latest announcement align with the BSGA’s goals and values?
At the BSGA, our work is guided by the five C’s – community, collaboration, communication, compliance, and champion – core values that direct our strategy and define our approach as an association. They set a clear direction for our purpose, shape a culture of professionalism, and reinforce our commitment to the skilled professionals and organisations driving the UK signage industry.
This latest initiative is a clear reflection of those values in action. It unites the diverse talents, roles, and perspectives across our industry, fostering recognition, mutual support, and a collective commitment to raising standards. We are working with NAS to develop sector specific pathways, qualifications, and competence frameworks that uphold industry standards, and we are engaging members, operatives, employers, and industry stakeholders to ensure understanding and confidence in the new card.
It also fosters compliance, enabling all industry participants – whether employed or self-employed – to demonstrate safe, competent, and accountable practice. Additionally, it promotes talent, career development, and professional recognition at every level of the industry.
Can you tell us why the BSGA partnered with NAS rather than issuing a CSCS-branded card independently?
The answer lies in practicality and industry alignment. NAS, as a licensed partner within the CSCS Alliance Partnership, provides the established governance, frameworks, and validation systems that ensure the card is fully compliant, accepted on site, and recognised nationally.
The SICCS scheme is managed exclusively by NAS. All SICCS cards are digital, carry the CSCS logo, and are validated on site via the Smart Checker system, giving operatives, site management, and industry stakeholders confidence in individuals’ verified competence and safety standards.
This partnership allows us to address a gap across both sectors, providing a clear, accessible pathway whilst formally recognising skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours against a nationally recognised framework.
This initiative goes beyond immediate site access – it supports professional growth, elevates standards across allied trades, and ensures operatives are competent, confident, and formally recognised. Importantly, it establishes the foundation for the full SICCS / CSCS Experience Commercial Signage Installer (blue card), due for development over the next 18 months.
The Provisional SICCS Commercial Signage Installer Card provides operatives a user-friendly and efficient route to site recognition. Designed with best practice, compliance, and verified competencies at its core, the application process ensures that individuals can efficiently demonstrate their skills and secure their provisional card.
What do you have to do to receive a card?
To secure a provisional card, applicants must complete the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) Operative level test within the last three years. They must also hold a recognised health and safety qualification (RQF Level 1 or SCQF Level 4 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment, or SCQF Level 5 REHIS Elementary Health and Safety Certificate).
Non BSGA or NAS members are required to complete a professional discussion with the BSGA within three months of card issue. The card is valid for 18 months (non-renewable), with a card fee of £30 excluding VAT. Professional discussion can potentially reduce that to £25 excluding VAT as a one-off.
What would you say to those considering purchasing the card?
The provisional card provides instant recognition and access, whilst over the 18-month validity period, our efforts continue to ensure operatives’ expertise is verified, professionally acknowledged, and aligned with national standards.
I encourage all industry professionals to explore this opportunity, secure their provisional card, and engage with the structured pathway for professional growth it provides. Your involvement helps cultivate our thriving industry, where our community is nurtured, collaboration is encouraged, communication is clear, compliance and best practice are maintained, and professionalism, safety, and reputation are championed.
Anything else you want to add?
My sincere thanks to Amanda Scott, skills strategist at NAS, for her stewardship throughout this process. Her focus and passion for supporting industry development have been invaluable.
As we continue to collaborate with and champion our industry, we remain committed to delivering exceptional value and valued support for every member.
