The Lantra certification scheme for Traffic Management Operatives (TMOs) is governed by the National Highway Sector Scheme (NHSS) 12. This scheme defines the required training and competence for individuals working on or near UK roadways.
The certification levels are primarily split based on the road speed and the complexity of the Temporary Traffic Management (TTM) required.
Foundational Requirement
The entry-point for all operatives, regardless of the road type they will specialize in, is the basic training course.
| Certification | Full Name | Scope of Work |
| TTMBC | Temporary Traffic Management Basic Course | This mandatory course covers the fundamental health, safety, and legal requirements for working on highways. Successful completion is a prerequisite for all higher operative levels (12A/B/C/D).
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| T1/T2 | Trainee Traffic Management Operative | The standard operative level for low-speed roads. This qualification allows the TMO to install, maintain, and remove simple TTM schemes (e.g., stop/go boards, two-way shuttles, cone layouts) on single carriageways. |
Low-Speed Roads (NHSS 12D)
NHSS 12D applies to urban and rural single carriageway roads and low-speed dual carriageways (typically 40mph). These certifications are designated with ‘M’ modules.
| Module | Full Name / Registered Status | Scope of Work |
| M1/M2 | Registered Traffic Management Operative (RTMO) | The standard operative level for low-speed roads. This qualification allows the TMO to install, maintain, and remove simple TTM schemes (e.g., stop/go boards, two-way shuttles, cone layouts) on single carriageways. It requires completing the T1 and T2 training modules and passing a minimum of three on-site practical assessments. |
| M1 MWO | Moving Works Operative | Certified to perform mobile and short-duration minor works (e.g., street sweeping, pothole repair, inspections) on single carriageways. |
| M3 | Static Works Low Speed Dual Carriageway | Certified to install, maintain, and remove static TTM schemes specifically on low-speed dual carriageways. |
| M4 | Convoy Working | A specialist module for implementing and managing convoy systems on appropriate roads. |
| M5 | Multi Phase Traffic Signals | A specialist module for working with and setting up complex multi-phase portable traffic signals. |
| M6 | Registered Lead Traffic Management Operative (RLTMO) | The highest operative level within the 12D scheme. This individual is authorized to lead and oversee TTM operations on low-speed roads. |
High-Speed Roads (NHSS 12A/B/C)
These schemes apply to motorways and high-speed dual carriageways (typically > 50MPH). Operatives are strictly forbidden from working on high-speed roads without the relevant 12A/B/C qualifications.
| Certification | Role | Scope of Work |
| 12AB General Operative | General Operative | Certified to actively work as a member of a TTM installation crew for static TTM on high-speed roads. |
| 12C General Operative | Mobile Lane Closure Operative | Certified to operate as part of a mobile lane closure (MLC) crew (often as an advance sign-carrying vehicle driver) for dynamic, moving works on high-speed roads. |
| 12B | Lead Traffic Management Operative (LTMO) | A leadership role certified to implement, maintain, and remove all forms of TTM on high-speed roads, overseeing the 12AB/12C operatives. |
| 12A/B | Foreman | A higher supervisory level responsible for the overall safety and quality of complex TTM on high-speed roads. |
| 12AB | Traffic Safety and Control Officer (TSCO) | A non-physical role responsible for the design, coordination, and audit of TTM schemes, ensuring compliance and safety on high-speed roads. |
