I am delighted to announce that, The British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA), in partnership with the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS), is championing the launch of the SICCS Commercial Signage Installer – Provisional Card.
This digital-only card provides operatives in the signage and shopfitting sectors with safe, compliant site access while they work towards a full qualification, supporting 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.
Historically, sign installers could gain a CSCS card through NVQ Level 2 units in signmaking, with separate categories for Illuminated and Non-Illuminated Sign Installers. Whilst these cards were previously a recognised route, the evolving standards of today’s commercial signage sector mean the new Provisional SICCS Card offers a modern pathway to site access and verified competence.
The new Provisional SICCS Card bridges this gap, ensuring operatives have uninterrupted access to sites while their skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours are verified against a modern, fit for purpose competence framework aligned with national standards.
Both the BSGA and NAS share a vision for constructive collaboration and competence in our industry. This partnership goes beyond site access, creating a clear pathway towards a fully competent workforce where commercial signage installers are formally recognised for their professionalism and technical capability.
Amanda Scott, UK Skills Lead at NAS, said:
“Linda Edwards is a forward thinker and technical specialist who has shown great leadership in driving change for her membership and sector. I look forward to the next 18 months of joint development work as we ensure our installers are safe, competent, and professionally recognised.”
About the SICCS Card Scheme:
Managed by NAS, a member of the CSCS Alliance Partnership, and the only licensed CSCS partner authorised to issue this card.
Digital only cards, bearing the CSCS logo and validated on site via the Smart Checker system.
Provides a solution for commercial signage operatives, who previously could not access sites with green CSCS cards reserved for general labourers.
Whilst the full SICCS / CSCS Experience Commercial Signage Installer (blue card) is under development over the next 18 months, the provisional card ensures ongoing access and professional recognition.
Eligibility requirements:
Applicants must meet three criteria:
CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Operative-level test within the last three years.
Recognised Health and Safety qualification: RQF Level 1 or, SCQF Level 4 Award, or SCQF Level 5 REHIS Elementary Health and Safety Certificate.
Non-BSGA / NAS members must complete a professional discussion with the BSGA within three months of card issue.
Additional details:
Validity: 18 months (non-renewable)
Card issue cost: £30 + VAT
Professional discussion: £25 + VAT (one-off)
Next steps:
If you work in shopfitting, interior contracting, or commercial signage, a valid competency card is mandatory for site access.
Check your eligibility and apply for your Provisional SICCS Card today at
Or, alternatively contact a BSGA team member for more information:
With this card, the BSGA and NAS reaffirm their commitment to advancing industry best practice, enhancing skills, and creating a safer, professionally recognised workforce.