Page:Report of the Departmental Committee on Traffic Signs (1946).djvu/30

 Large reflecting arrows

43. We understand that at a small number of what are considered to be particularly dangerous bends authority has been given for the erection of large reflecting arrows up to 18 ft. or so in length. For the reasons given in paragraph 12 we are strongly of opinion that use of such abnormal indications of a danger point should not be permitted in future.

Unguarded level crossing

44. The sign recommended for a level crossing without gates i is shown in diagram 15. We have modified some of the details of the symbol so that when fitted with reflecting lenses as shown in diagram, a more distinctive reflected outline is obtained at night.

Guarded level crossing

45. We do not recommend any change in the existing sign for a gated level crossing as shown in diagram 16. The recommended arrangement of reflecting lenses is shown in diagram 16a.

Steep Hill

46. We consider that it would be helpful to the road user if the steep hill warning sign were to indicate the steepness of the hill. We therefore recommend the sign shown in diagram 17, on which the words “Hill, 1 in .” (the maximum gradient being specified) are substituted for the words “Steep Hill” on the existing sign. The size of the symbol has been increased slightly so as to facilitate the fitting of the number of reflecting lenses shown in diagram.

The degree of “steepness” considered by highway authorities to justify the use of the “Steep Hill” sign differs very much. We are of opinion that uniformity of practice is desirable in this matter and therefore recommend that the sign should be used only where the gradient exceeds 1 in 15.

Low Gear for Miles

47. At a number of steep hills where exceptionally severe gradient and/or exceptional length make conditions particularly hazardous, the addition, below the standard “Steep Hill” sign, of a plaque bearing the words “Engage Low Gear” has been authorised, as has also the use of signs giving the length of the steep hill. We recommend that in future in place of those signs one standard sign, shown in diagram 18, and reading “Low Gear for Miles” should be authorised for specific sites where the Minister considers the additional warning necessary.

School

48. We do not recommend any change in the existing school sign shown in diagram 19. The recommended arrangement of reflecting lenses is shown in diagram.

Children

49. Our attention was drawn to a number of signs which have been specially authorised for use at places, other than at schools, where it is desirable to warn the road user of the presence of children, e.g. in the vicinity of recreation grounds. We consider that the “torch” symbol on the “School” sign is now associated in the minds of most road users with the need for caution because of the likely presence of children, and we therefore recommend its use in the “Children” sign shown in diagram 20. This sign should be used in circumstances of the nature referred to in the first sentence of this paragraph