Page:Report of the Departmental Committee on Traffic Signs (1946).djvu/32

 the size of some of the lettering has been increased to 3 in. to facilitate fitting of reflecting lenses. Diagram shows the recommended arrangement of reflecting lenses on the low bridge symbol.

The sign shown in diagram 33 is intended to be erected on a minor road, at the approach to a more important road, to indicate the existence of a low bridge some distance along the latter. We consider that in special cases the sign could also be erected on a major road at the junction with a minor road on which a low bridge is situated, but only at sites specifically approved by the Minister.

We recommend no change in the sign shown in diagrams 34 and.

Swing Bridge

57. We consider it desirable that one standard warning sign should be authorised for use at opening bridges of all types and recommend that it be of the form shown in diagram 35. We have adopted the term “Swing Bridge” in preference to “Opening Bridge” because we considered that the former would convey to the average road user a clearer indication of the nature of the danger to be apprehended.

Gates Closed

58. Where a supply of illuminant is available and traffic conditions justify its installation, we consider that there should be added beneath the standard swing bridge sign a sign (diagram 36) on which the words “Gates Closed” in red letters can be made visible by internal illumination controlled by the bridge operator.

Fords

59. We are of the opinion that warning of fords on public roads should always be given and for this purpose we recommend the sign shown in diagram 37.

We recommend the use of a similar sign bearing the words “Deep Ford” where the Minister is satisfied of the need for its use in specific cases.

Diagram 38 shows a sign “Caution, Deep Ford” which has been generally authorised for use on advance direction signs. In our view the signs already recommended in this paragraph are adequate for the purpose and we recommend that a warning on advance direction signs should only be authorised in exceptional circumstances.

Depth gauges at fords

60. We also think it desirable that at all fords on public roads, in addition to the above warning signs, depth gauges should be provided. Section 24 of the Highways Act, 1835, requires highway authorities in England and Wales to erect graduated stones or posts at parts of highways subject to deep or dangerous floods, and is still in force, but we consider that more specific direction in this connection is required. We recommend that at the first suitable opportunity the Minister should promote legislation making it obligatory on authorities or persons responsible for the maintenance of public roads to provide and maintain depth gauges at all fords on them.

Animals

61. The 1933 Committee did not recommend any signs giving warning of danger from animals on the road, but since then several signs of this character have been generally authorised, e.g. “Beware of Sheep,” “Unfenced Road, Beware of Sheep,” and similar signs for Cattle and Ponies. We are of opinion