Traffic congestion is not a new problem. The ancient Romans are credited with building the first comprehensive road system, but even they had their fair share of delays and crashes. Whether you’re talking about a Roman chariot or an 18-wheel semi-truck, proper road traffic control is crucial for keeping everyone alive.
When it’s business as usual, we depend on road markings, signs and signals to adhere to the rules of the road. However it’s not uncommon for construction sites and roadworks to spring up and throw a spanner in the works, limiting the flow of traffic which in turn can increase the danger of numerous traffic problems.
Although it’s difficult to predict the precise impact roadworks or construction otherwise might have on the larger region, a temporary road traffic management system is essential for minimizing risk, and here’s why:
Key Elements of Road Traffic Control
In the broadest of senses, road traffic control is the infrastructure used to serve the travel requirements of an area, which extends to the layout of roads, as well as their capacity. While highways accommodate large numbers of traffic at high speed, main roads carry people between urban areas, and smaller streets provide access to local destinations.
Such a road hierarchy allows drivers to take the most efficient route, where greater access is available at lower speeds (local roads), and higher speeds and available at lesser access (freeway). As a result on such a design, various traffic control issues may arise, chiefly traffic delays and accidents.
Road traffic control also involves a system of markings, signs and signals. These are standardised so that road users can quickly identify them, which they must learn to do before a driving license is awarded. The rules of the road are thus enforced through well-engineered traffic control devices and driver-licensing authorities.
Temporary Road Traffic Management Systems
When the normal system of markings, signs and signals are compromised, temporary traffic control systems ensure driver safety. This involves assessing a great number of things, including the nature and scope of disruption caused, the ways in which vehicles and pedestrians are will navigate through (or around) the disrupted road, and the precise procedures needed to allow such.
This is done principally through the use of additional markings, signage and signals. For instance, traffic controllers install cones and barriers to alert and guide vehicles, whilst themselves wearing reflective PPE so that drivers and pedestrians can more easily spot them. They then rely on handheld signals and/or temporary lights to control any movement.
Without the appropriate traffic control services, you run the risk of easily-avoidable incidents, which could ultimately be the difference between life and death. There are many ways temporary traffic management ensures driver safety, making certain that although people are inconvenienced by roadworks, they are not endangered by them.
Stay in the Driving Seat
If traffic conditions are worsened as a result of your actions, for example significant construction work has presented additional hazards for road users, it’s important to maintain an effective road traffic control system. Investing in experienced traffic controllers means that you mitigate risks whilst reducing liability.
Find out exactly how UVS Group keeps the road ahead clear by getting in touch by phone, email or enquiry form.
