SUR/General/TBT-SUR-017
Setting Out in Live Traffic Conditions
Surveying & Setting Out › General › Setting Out in Live Traffic Conditions
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Setting Out in Live Traffic Conditions
Surveyors and engineers regularly set out works in live traffic conditions on highways and urban roads. This exposes them to the risk of being struck by passing vehicles while focused on instrument readings and measurements. Correct traffic management, PPE, and awareness are essential to keep surveying teams safe in these high-risk environments.
Key Hazards
Being struck by passing vehicles while operating survey instruments
Driver distraction or failure to see surveyors in the carriageway
Trip hazards from survey equipment placed on the road surface
Reduced visibility during poor weather or low light conditions
Control Measures
- Ensure Chapter 8 compliant traffic management is in place before entering the carriageway.
- Wear Class 3 high-visibility clothing with reflective strips at all times.
- Use a lookout or traffic marshal to warn of approaching vehicles during instrument setup.
- Plan survey visits during off-peak hours where possible to reduce traffic exposure.
- Set up warning signs and cones in accordance with the traffic management plan.
- Keep all survey equipment inside the protected working area and off live lanes.
- Maintain continuous communication with the traffic management team during the operation.
- Minimise time spent in the carriageway by pre-planning observation points and calculations.
- Carry a two-way radio and wear hearing protection that does not block traffic awareness.
Remember
- Never enter a live carriageway without Chapter 8 traffic management in place
- Wear Class 3 high-visibility clothing with reflective strips at all times
- Use a lookout or traffic marshal to maintain awareness of approaching vehicles
- Minimise the time spent in the carriageway by pre-planning survey positions
- Keep all equipment inside the protected work area and away from live lanes
Applicable Legislation: New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 · Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 · CDM 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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