Update of tender documentation requirement by users and consultant specifiers
Traffic Open Products and Specifications Limited (www.topasgroup.org.uk) has been in existence since 2014 and was created in response to the withdrawal of the requirement for Type Approval by the Secretary of State.
TOPAS publishes its procurement specifications online for access by manufacturers and procurers. Its aim is to ensure the maintenance of standards for products on the highways in the UK and to
support procurers in their purchase of products which have been deemed to comply with the most up-to-date UK legislation.
TOPAS has been made aware that unfortunately due to lack of sharing of information, tenders and other specification documents still contain requirements to outdated standards and specifications. This in itself should not be a major problem, since manufacturers are required to comply with UK standards in production.
However, where there is an issue, is when manufacturers are asked to produce to those outdated standards, regardless of any new requirements. Indeed, in some cases, required to manufacture products that neither meet old standards, new standards or TSRGD.
TOPAS as a procurement tool should not be underestimated. HE, TfL and the majority of local highway authorities require TOPAS registration in framework documents and all local authorities in the UK have been advised of this through various means. The DfT, Welsh, Scottish, and North Ireland Governments have all publicised the ability for procurers to rely on TOPAS specifications following the withdrawal of Type Approval.
TOPAS urge you to check your tender documents and revise these to meet the requirements of the frameworks.
In particular, no references should be made to the pre-existing TR specifications or Type Approval since this has not been required since the commencement date of TSRGD 2016.
Further, permits should be requested under the Statutory Guidance for Permit Schemes National Conditions July 2020.
Remember : standards = safety. Non compliance = risk.
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