Traffic Management for Maintenance Works

Module 6: Traffic Management for Maintenance Works

1. Basic Principles of Temporary Traffic Management (TTM)

A. Purpose & Legal Framework:

• Ensures worker/public safety during highway works.

• Complies with:

• UK Chapter 8 (Traffic Signs Manual)

• Sector Schemes (e.g., 12A/B for signing/lighting/guarding)

• Health and Safety at Work Act (1974)

B. Key Objectives:
✔ Minimize disruption to traffic flow
✔ Clear visibility of works (day/night)
✔ Protect workers from live traffic
✔ Guide road users safely past hazards

C. Risk Assessment:

• Site-Specific factors:

• Road type (motorway vs. urban)

• Speed limit (>50mph requires longer lead-in distances)

• Pedestrian/cyclist volumes

2. Setting Up & Removing Signs, Cones, and Barriers

A. Equipment Standards:

B. Step-by-Step Setup:

1. Advance Warning Area:

• Place "Road Works Ahead" signs (700 series).

• Use chevron boards for lane merges.

2. Transition Zone:

• Taper cones at 1:10 ratio (e.g., 10m taper for 1m lane shift).

3. Works Area:

• Barriers if workers are exposed to traffic.

• Keep-left/right arrows for lane splits.

C. Removal Protocol:

• Reverse setup order (inside-out).

• Check no debris is left (e.g., cone bases).

3. Safe Working Near Live Traffic (Chapter 8 / Sector Schemes)

A. Worker Protection Measures:

• Safety Zones:

• 0.5m clearance for speeds ≤30mph.

• 1.5m clearance for speeds >30mph.

• PPE Requirements:

• EN ISO 20471 high-vis (Class 3 for high-speed roads).

• Hard hats, steel-toe boots.

B. Traffic Control Methods:

• Stop/Go Boards: For short-duration works (<15 mins).

• Two-Way Signals: Must be manually operated (no automated systems).

• Lane Closures: Requires Chapter 8-compliant signage.

C. Night Works:

• Illuminated Signs: LED "Road Closed" boards.

• Barrier Lighting: Amber lamps every 3m.

4. Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Considerations

A. Pedestrian Diversions:

• Minimum 1.2m width for walkways.

• Tactile paving for visually impaired.

B. Cyclist Protections:

• Advanced Warning: "Cyclists Dismount" signs if path is closed.

• Alternative Routes: Signed detours (avoiding multi-lane crossings).

C. High-Risk Areas:

• School Zones: Extra signage during drop-off/pick-up times.

• Bus Stops: Temporary relocations with clear notices.

Key Takeaways

✔ TTM is law – Non-compliance risks fines/accidents.
✔ Cones/barriers must meet BS/EN standards.
✔ Chapter 8 defines signing/lighting rules.
✔ Always assess pedestrian/cyclist needs.

Practical Training:
▶ Demo: Correct cone taper setup on a mock road.
▶ Case Study: Video analysis of a TTM failure.