Code of practice for traffic control and information systems

Introduction

This leaflet attention to the code of practice for the Traffic Control and Information Systems (MCH 1869), published by the Highways Agency in April 1999.

Whole life cycle design states showing the structured approach

Background

Systems for controlling traffic or providing information to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists are growing in complexity. The range of solutions available is getting wider. It is important that the safety of those systems is assured by good practice, from design to de-commissioning. Some aspects of good practice, together with legislationand guidance, are already provided by the Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions in individual documents. Working together with representatives from the local authorities, industry and the DETR ©, the Highways Agency commisioned this Code of Practice, to act as a central reference document.

The code of practice

The document recommends and makes reference to good practices to be adopted for such ssytems, both simple and complex, during all stages. It incorporates a self-certification procedure, uder which the highway authorities can certify that they comply with the code. It makes reference to existing legislation and Departmerntal Advice, and describes established procedures and new approaches. It introduces methodologies , which may be new to some organisations, such as considering the cost over the whole life of the system. It ghas been produced with the main aim of assisiting U.K. highway authorities, their consultants and contractors to promote safety and consistency through good design practice. The code can also be used as part of contract tendering document.

The code applies to roadside systems, on all public roads except motorways, that convey instructions or information to road users through signal control variable message signs or symbols. It covers conventioanl traffic signalling systems, signal-controlled crossings and innovative systems incorporated driver information. Such systems incorporate a control system, which will be electrical , electronic or electro-mechanical. Purely mechanical systems are excluded.

The code was issued in draft, piloted by a number of highway authorities in 1998 and subsequently published as MCH 1869 in 1999.

CopiesThe Code of Practice is available free from TSS Division in the Highways Agency. It is intended to incorporate the publication within the design Manual for Roads and Bridges early in 2000.

Enquiries

Alan Beckett
TSS
TCSL
Highways Agency
624
Tollgate House
Houlton Street
BRISTOL BS2 9DJ

The Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions sponsors a wide range of research into traffic management issues. The results published in Traffic Advisory Leaflets are applicable to England, Wales and Scotland. Attention is drawn to variations in statutory provisions or administrative practices between the countries.
The Traffic Advisory Unit (TAU) is a multi-disciplinary group working within the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions. The TAU seeks to promote the most effective traffic management and parking techniques for the benefit, safety and convenience of all road users.
The Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions	The Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions	The Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
Requests for unpriced TAU publications to: Charging and Local Transport Division, Zone 3/23, Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DR. Telephone 020 7944 2478 Email: tal@dotditm3.demon.co.uk	Requests for unpriced TAU publications to: Charging and Local Transport Division, Zone 3/23, Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DR. Telephone 020 7944 2478 Email: tal@dotditm3.demon.co.uk	Requests for unpriced TAU publications to: Charging and Local Transport Division, Zone 3/23, Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DR. Telephone 020 7944 2478 Email: tal@dotditm3.demon.co.uk