Temporary Traffic Signals

Temporary traffic signals control vehicle movements through road works where the carriageway is restricted.
Portable traffic signals must be set up in accordance with Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual.
Signal timing must be calculated to suit the road layout, traffic volume, and length of the works.
Incorrectly timed signals cause traffic congestion, driver frustration, and increased accident risk at the works.
Manual stop-go boards may be used as an alternative for short-duration works or low-traffic situations.
All personnel operating manual stop-go boards must be trained and hold appropriate NRSWA competency.
Signal heads must be clearly visible to approaching drivers, clean, and positioned at the correct height.
Backup power and monitoring of signal operation are required to prevent signal failure during works.
Portable signals must be removed or covered outside of working hours unless authorised to remain in place.
The Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice governs the use of temporary signals.

Prevent collisions	Incorrectly set or malfunctioning signals cause head-on collisions in single-lane working zones.
Protect workers	Signals control traffic flow past the work area — failure puts both workers and drivers at serious risk.
Legal compliance	Chapter 8, NRSWA, and the Code of Practice impose strict legal requirements on temporary signal operation.

Do

Don't

Set up signals in accordance with Chapter 8 and the Code of Practice for the road type
Calculate signal timings based on the road layout, distance, and expected traffic volumes
Position signal heads where they are clearly visible to drivers approaching from both directions
Check signal operation including phase timing and battery levels before opening to traffic
Ensure stop-go board operators are trained, competent, and holding valid NRSWA cards
Monitor signals regularly throughout the shift for correct operation and visibility
Provide backup power to prevent signal failure during extended or overnight operations
Coordinate with the local highway authority before installing temporary signals on any road
Remove or cover signal heads outside working hours unless authorised for continuous use
Log all signal setup times, timing calculations, and monitoring checks for the site record

DON'T set up temporary signals without calculating appropriate phase timings for the site
DON'T leave signals operating unmonitored for extended periods during the working shift
DON'T position signal heads where they are obscured by vegetation, signs, or parked vehicles
DON'T allow untrained workers to operate manual stop-go boards controlling live traffic
DON'T leave signals in place overnight without authorisation and adequate power backup
DON'T ignore driver complaints about signal timing — adjust to prevent congestion and risk
DON'T rely on battery power alone without checking charge levels regularly through the shift
DON'T set signal timings too short, forcing drivers to stop suddenly or run the red phase
DON'T use damaged or dirty signal heads that are not clearly visible to approaching traffic
DON'T install signals without coordinating with the local highway authority as required

See also: Chapter 8 Signing, Lighting and Guarding | Working in Live Carriageways

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