Page:UK Traffic Signs Manual - Chapter 4 - Warning Signs. 2013.pdf/46



The sign to diagram 545 is used to warn of the likelihood of encountering children in the road ahead, going to a school or playground. It must be used in combination with one of the supplementary plates to diagram 546, 547.1, 547.2, 547.3, or 547.7 (direction 20(2)). When used in combination with diagram 546, 547.1 or 547.7 it may also be combined with the light signals shown in diagram 4004. It should be sited to ensure adequate warning is given; this might require a greater distance than specified in Appendix A for signs warning of fixed hazards. A distance, an arrow (pointing to the left or to the right) or both may be added to the plate in accordance with the working drawings (see para 1.8).

When combined with 546 or 547.1, the sign may be provided where children cross the road on their way to or from school, or from one part of a school to another. If the school or playground caters exclusively or predominantly for disabled, blind or deaf children, the plate to diagram 547.7 (suitably varied) should be used with the sign to diagram 545.

Where children going to school use roads without proper footways, it may be necessary to warn drivers of their likely presence in the road. A sign to diagram 545 may be used with a supplementary plate to diagram 547.3.

When used with the "Patrol" plate (diagram 547.1) the sign to diagram 545 warns of a crossing place where children are supervised by a warden appointed by the local authority and operating with the sign prescribed by the School Crossing Patrol Sign Regulations. "Patrol" signs should not be used at signalled or Zebra crossings, as drivers expect to stop at formal crossings whether or not a warden is present.

Flashing amber lights (diagram 4004) are used to give emphasis to the warning sign where the 85th percentile speed exceeds 35 mph, or on a busy road where a driver’s attention is likely to be fully occupied. The lights may be used only when diagram 545 is used together with diagram 546, 547.1 or 547.7 and the crossing point is in use (whether or not it is supervised). See regulation 50 (40 in the Northern Ireland Regulations) and direction 55(1). Lights should not be used near level crossings, traffic signals, Pelican, Puffin, Toucan or Zebra crossings if this might cause confusion or distraction. They should never be used to warn of children crossing at signalled or Zebra crossings. Guidance on the possible need to sign such crossings can be found in section 8 (signalled crossings) and para 9.3.9.3 (Zebra crossings).

9.12 Where conditions at a patrol site justify flashing lights and there is another patrol site situated within 500 metres that does not, consideration should be given to the provision of lights at both or neither site.

Pelican and Zebra crossings may be installed on road humps. Diagram 547.8 may be used together with a sign to diagram 543 or 544 as appropriate. Further guidance on signing road humps can be found in section ..13/13. 45