Understanding Standards, Regulations, and Accreditations in the Sign Industry

Dave Derbyshire, Chair of the Technical Committee, talks about standards, regulations, and accreditations in the sign industry.

Our sector isn’t tightly regulated, so it’s up to us to ensure we’re doing things the right way, safely and legally. As part of the BSGA Rules of Membership, all Members are required to adhere to British Standard BS 559. These guidelines help keep everything running smoothly and make sure businesses operate responsibly.

BS 559 covers how to design, build, and maintain signs. The latest version, BS 559-1:2023, replaces the old 1998 rules and adds new guidelines on handling wind resistance, working with vinyl films, and protecting signs from damage caused by birds or rodents. Then there’s BS 559-2, which covers the practical side—how to install, inspect, and maintain signs so they stay safe and in good shape over time.

BS 559-2 doesn’t cover road signs or fire safety signs, but it’s very helpful for businesses that own signs in other sectors. It explains the sign owner’s responsibilities, like keeping those signs in good shape. Following these guidelines helps companies comply with the Town & Country Planning (Control of Advertisement) Regulations 1992, which are all about keeping signs safe and well-maintained.

Why accreditations are important
Because our industry isn’t heavily regulated, accreditations become even more important. They’re a way to prove you’re serious about following the best practices and keeping everyone safe. Here are some of the key accreditations to look out for:

  • PASMA: If your team uses mobile access towers to install signs, this is a must. It ensures that everyone’s working safely at height.
  • IPAF: If your team uses equipment like scissor lifts or cherry pickers, this certification is crucial. It makes sure operators know how to handle the machinery safely.
  • SafeContractor: This shows you’re committed to high health and safety standards, which builds trust with clients and partners.
  • CHAS: This one proves you’re meeting tough health and safety requirements and that you care about creating a safe working environment for everyone.
  • SSIP: A great option for businesses working on various projects, as it makes meeting multiple safety standards easier.

On top of these, certifications like NEBOSH and SMSTS help boost a business’s credibility and ensure workers are up to speed on health and safety regulations.

The Bottom Line

As the signage industry isn’t heavily regulated, following standards and getting the right accreditations isn’t just a good idea; it’s a must. These steps help protect workers and clients and give businesses an edge in a competitive market. The BSGA plays a huge role in upholding these standards, and the right accreditations ensure everyone follows the best practices across the industry.