Page:UK Traffic Signs Manual - Chapter 8 - Part 1 (Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road). Designs 2009.pdf/68

DESIGN CRITERIA to prevent their use as general stopping points. In locations where the provision of a temporary lay-by would involve substantial construction costs, consideration should be given to more cost-effective setting-down locations.
 * Off-route lay-bys — where the road works are near a suitable junction, a lay-by on an adjoining road may provide a good location for setting down recovered vehicles and occupants.

The list given in paragraph D3.35.25 above is not exhaustive, and circumstances may arise where a combination of these locations on a day/night basis may best serve the interests of road users. In addition, local knowledge may be employed to identify unique locations which fulfil the requirements for setting down recovered vehicles and occupants. The police are often able to advise on this.

The Specification for Highway Works (see MCHW Volume 1 Clause 120 and Volume 2 Appendix 1/20) provides a generic specification for basic types of recovery vehicles, equipment and inspection requirements.

The designer should note that the list of equipment represents only guidance and so should consult with one of the recognised recovery industry associations for advice and guidance on the latest equipment and capabilities of vehicles. Alternative equipment specifications should be agreed with the Highway Authority.

The key to an effective recovery system on site is good communication between the relevant parties. The contractor should provide an effective two-way communication system, taking into account any local communication black spots or low signal areas. Secondary "back-up” communication systems should also be provided to ensure continued service.

The use of an Impact Protection Vehicle (IPV) (see Part 2: Operations, paragraph O5.5.5) should be considered to protect the scene of the recovery where vehicle speeds passing the broken-down vehicle are generally in excess of 30 mph. This applies to the incident site and also to the setting-down point.

Where recovery vehicles are not permanently on site or available on immediate callout, consideration should be given to the possibility that vehicles may still break down at a works site and require recovery by a road recovery operator. Breakdowns can result in stationary traffic which may create a hazardous situation.

Motorists in difficulty may choose to access a coned-off area. However, signs advising drivers to use a coned-off area in the event of an emergency must not be used (see Section D6.10).

Operational issues relating to the recovery of broken-down vehicles are covered in Part2: Operations, Sections O7.3 and O7.4.

At any major layout, good communications and effective surveillance are essential to coordinate recovery and emergency services, and reduce the incident duration. The use of closed circuit television (CCTV) to monitor road works should be considered at the planning stage.

Where permanent CCTV, variable message signs (VMS) and traffic information systems are available, consideration should be given to their use subject to consent by the police or appropriate service operator.

67