Lane closures and contraflow systems allow construction work to proceed on live carriageways while maintaining traffic flow. These arrangements must comply with Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual and be installed by trained operatives. Errors in setup or removal expose both workers and the travelling public to serious danger. This talk covers the safe setup, monitoring, and removal of lane closures and contraflows.
Key Hazards
Workers struck by vehicles entering the work area through incorrect closures
Head-on collisions in contraflow sections with inadequate lane separation
Public vehicles entering tapers at high speed before signs are fully deployed
Operatives exposed to live traffic during setup and removal of lane closures
Control Measures
Ensure lane closure layouts comply with Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual for the road type.
Deploy signs and cones in the correct sequence starting furthest from the works and working towards them.
Wear high-visibility Chapter 8 compliant clothing at all times when working on the carriageway.
Use an impact protection vehicle positioned upstream of the work area during all setup and removal phases.
Install temporary barrier or lane separator systems for contraflow sections as specified in the design.
Brief all operatives on the traffic management layout, emergency procedures, and speed restrictions.
Monitor the closure throughout the shift and adjust signs or cones displaced by traffic or weather.
Remove signs and cones in reverse order to deployment, working away from the completed works.
Ensure all traffic management operatives hold current NHSS 12A or 12B qualifications as required.
Remember
Lane closure layouts must comply with Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual at all times
Signs and cones are deployed starting furthest away and working towards the work area
Chapter 8 compliant high-visibility clothing is mandatory for all carriageway work
An impact protection vehicle must be positioned upstream during setup and removal phases
All traffic management operatives must hold current NHSS 12A or 12B sector scheme qualifications
Closures must be monitored throughout the shift and adjusted if displaced by traffic or weather
Applicable Legislation: Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 · New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974