Page:UK Traffic Signs Manual - Chapter 8 - Part 2- Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations) - Operations 2009.pdf/11

 *clear directions relating to decisions/actions required from road users;
 * minimisation of potential conflict between road users, and between road users and road workers and their operations;
 * credibility of traffic signs and temporary requirements; and
 * speed limits and restrictions appropriate for the temporary highway geometry and safety features.

Compliance with the guidance provided in this document should assist those involved with the installation, maintenance and removal of temporary traffic management arrangements to develop and implement a safe and effective system of working at all times.

This document makes recommendations based on good practice for the guidance of temporary traffic management operators. It is intended to guide the operator through the operational process and through the considerations that are necessary to produce safe and effective temporary traffic management arrangements. It is not a prescriptive specification and it is recognised that the guidance given may not be applicable to all situations.

In this document the word "must" is used to indicate a legal requirement which must be complied with. The word "shall" indicates an essential (or mandatory) requirement of compliance with this document, and "should" indicates a course of action that is strongly recommended by the Department, see Glossary(Appendix 2). The word "may" is used to indicate an option, which requires consideration depending on the circumstances.

In this document the terms "traffic" and "road users" shall be taken to include both motorised and non-motorised users such as pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

In this document "road works" are defined as any works or temporary restrictions which cause partial or total obstruction of any road or highway, whether on the verge, hard shoulder, footway, cycleway, bridleway or carriageway. Examples may include highway improvement schemes, excavations, structural or maintenance works of any kind, street works or any other work executed on or near the highway together with the necessary working space, safety zones, space required for the storage of any materials, the construction of any temporary structures and the operation of any constructional plant required for the execution of such work, including associated surveys and inspections.

Temporary traffic management schemes referred to in this Chapter are either "standard" schemes, "relaxation" schemes or else emergency traffic management.

"Standard" schemes are appropriate for works carried out in all weather, visibility and traffic conditions.

"Relaxation" schemes are appropriate for certain types of works (as indicated within this Chapter) for short-term situations with good visibility and low traffic flows. In this document "short-term situations" are situations that are expected to last less than 24 hours, "good visibility" means visibility extending to the full length of the stopping sight distance, and "low traffic flows" means flows less than the reduced available carriageway capacity when the works are in place. "Stopping sight distance" is the distance required for a 9