The Transport Technology Forum is leading the production of the Code of Practice for Electronic Roadside Equipment, which will replace the Management of Electronic Traffic Equipment as Part E of the Well Managed Highways guidance. This important resource, which assists Local Authorities in managing the maintenance of electronic roadside infrastructure, has moved on to a point where the input of industry and local authorities is needed.
Project leads Gafoor Din FIHE, who is Service Manager for Traffic Control and Information Systems at Warwickshire County Council, and leading traffic signals consultant Steve George are currently reviewing the Roads Liaison Group’s 2011 Management of Electronic Traffic Equipment Code of Practice.
Steve George explained: “Since the last guidance was written, the amount and type of electronic equipment at the roadside has changed significantly, and with the installation of this new technology, the Roads Liaison Group has recognised the code needs review and amendment. We’re now looking for experts from local authorities and across the supply chain to support our work by giving their time to make sure the advice we publish is up to date, accurate and complete.”
The document covers the maintenance and refurbishment of all electronic roadside equipment and is designed to assist in development and management of operational and maintenance practices to ensure that available funding is spent effectively.
Editorial Group volunteers will oversee a full review of the current Code of Practice to support Messrs George and Din to deliver guidance that is fit for the 21st Century.
The new document will be produced as a web resource, meaning it can easily include relevant links and can be updated as required. It is expected that the new Code of Practice will be integrated into MfSS – the Department for Transport’s Manual for Smart Streets.
“Funding for refurbishment programmes varies greatly from authority to authority, with some operating an effective maintenance regime, replacing equipment on a rolling programme, while other authorities do not have a replacement programme in place,” added Mr Din. “We will make sure that whatever situation authorities are in, by bringing in this expert assistance will ensure the new text gives maximum value to authorities.”
The current Code of Practice is available here. Volunteers wishing to help and influence the industry in this review and amendment should come forward via the TTF.
(Picture – Roads Liaison Group)
