Blog | The Importance of Temporary Roadworks Signs
Published 2:00pm February 6 2025
Temporary roadworks signs play a crucial role in ensuring road safety by guiding drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians safely through roadworks. Given that roadworks often take place in high-traffic areas and can introduce unexpected hazards, clear and highly visible signage is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining smooth traffic flow.
A key factor in the effectiveness of temporary roadworks signs is their use of reflective materials, which ensure visibility in low-light conditions and adverse weather. In this blog, we explore why reflective materials are vital, the regulations governing their use, and the standards that ensure their reliability.
Why are reflective temporary roadworks signs essential?
Temporary roadworks signs must be visible both day and night to alert road users to changes in road conditions, lane closures, diversions, and potential hazards. Reflective materials help improve safety by:
Enhancing visibility in low-light conditions
Many roadworks take place at night or in poorly lit areas. Reflective signs ensure that road users can see and react to instructions well in advance, preventing confusion and accidents.
Improving safety for road workers and drivers
Clear, visible signage helps separate roadworks from active traffic, protecting both workers and motorists by reducing the risk of collisions.
Ensuring compliance with road safety regulations
In the UK, regulations dictate that temporary road signs must meet specific reflectivity standards to be legally compliant. Using the correct materials ensures that signage is visible and meets safety requirements.
Reflective materials used in temporary roadworks signs
The effectiveness of temporary roadworks signs depends on the type of reflective material used. The most common reflective materials include:
Class RA1
Class RA1 (engineer grade reflective sheeting) is made using glass bead technology, providing basic reflectivity suitable for low-risk roadworks.
Class RA2
Class RA2 (high-intensity prismatic reflective sheeting) utilises microprism technology to achieve higher reflectivity, making it suitable for high-risk areas and major roadworks. It offers increased visibility at greater distances.
Class R3B
Class R3B (micro prismatic reflective sheeting) delivers the highest level of reflectivity and is used on high-speed roads and in motorway work zones. It ensures that signs remain visible even in adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog.
Each of these materials is designed to reflect vehicle headlights, ensuring that road users can see and interpret signs quickly, even in poor conditions.
Learn more about Micro Prismatic Reflective Sheeting >
UK regulations and standards for reflective roadworks signs
Temporary roadworks signs in the UK must comply with strict regulations to ensure visibility and safety. Key standards include:
Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD)
- Defines the design, shape, and colours of all road signs, including those for temporary works
- Requires that reflective materials be used on all roadworks signs
View the TSRGD in full online.
BS EN 12899-1:2007 (fixed vertical road traffic signs)
- Establishes performance standards for permanent and temporary traffic signs
- Specifies that signs must be made from certified reflective materials
Purchase a copy of BS EN 12899-1:2007 online.
Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual
- Provides detailed guidance on the placement and use of temporary road signs
- Specifies the required reflectivity class depending on road type and speed limits
Failing to use compliant reflective materials can lead to reduced visibility, increased accident risk, and potential legal issues for contractors and local authorities.
View Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual online.
Best practices for using reflective temporary roadworks signs
Select the correct reflectivity class:
- Use Class RA1 for minor roadworks.
- Use Class RA2 for high-traffic roads and areas with poor lighting.
- Use Class R3B for motorways and high-speed roads.
Read more about Sign Retroreflectivity – What is a Retroreflective Material & How Does it Contribute to Road Safety? >
Ensure proper placement and positioning:
- Signs should be positioned at the correct height and distance from the road to maximise visibility.
- Signs must not be obstructed by other objects or road furniture.
Regular maintenance and cleaning:
- Dirt and grime can reduce reflectivity; regular cleaning is essential.
- Damaged or faded signs should be replaced immediately to maintain visibility.
Learn more about How to Measure the Reflectivity of Road Signs >
Use additional lighting if necessary:
- In areas with extremely poor lighting, supplementary lighting can enhance visibility.
Conclusion
Temporary roadworks signs are a vital part of road safety, guiding motorists and protecting road workers. The use of high quality reflective materials ensures that these signs remain visible in all conditions, reducing accidents and maintaining traffic flow.
By adhering to UK regulations and selecting the appropriate reflective materials, contractors and local authorities can ensure that temporary road signs effectively serve their purpose.
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