Don’t Fall Foul of Colour Compliance Rules, Contractors Warned


10th of April, 2012 Bookmark and Share
An increasing number of highways contractors are being enticed to use colour portable Variable Message Signs and in the process may unwittingly be breaking rules set out in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD), it has been claimed.

Sign developer and supplier Mobile Traffic Solutions (MTS) believes some highways firms may be unaware of rules in the TSRGD of 2002 and the amendments which came into force last year outlawing the use of certain colours for text on variable message signs (VMS) used on the UK roads.

Regulations 58(3) and 58(4) in the 2002 requirements and 58(2A) in the 2011 amendment state that symbols or text must be displayed in white, off-white or yellow.

Paul Brickman, Sales Director at MTS, said: “The VMS can incorporate a red triangle or circle, but under no circumstances can the text be red or any other colour except white, off-white or yellow.

“We are seeing an increasing number of signs using red, blue and green to form text that is clearly aimed at traffic.

“This goes against the clear guidance on the use of variable message signs contained in the TSRGD 2002.

“Contractors and hire outlets need to familiarise themselves with the rules and make sure someone on the job is responsible for policing the use of VMS to avoid the risk of non-compliance and the creation of an
unenforceable road traffic sign.”

MTS, which has been at the forefront of sign technology for more than 25 years, is urging hire companies and project managers to source from distributors of completely compliant VMS systems.

Mr Brickman added: “Multiple colours on one page are often combined with multiple scrolling pages – something that was outlawed by regulation 58(10) in last year’s amendments. Ultimately it’s our customer who controls the displayed message, but at MTS we offer all our customers the advice surrounding the lawful creation of road traffic signage.

“The rules clearly state that a VMS must display the whole message at the same time. We’re concerned that some firms are putting themselves in danger of prosecution, but it’s relatively simple to ensure compliance and maximum safety.

“Anyone looking to hire or buy VMS technology needs to get to know the rules, and MTS is always happy to advise to give extra piece of mind.”

National supplier MTS, along with its sister company, the road traffic sign supplier and distributor Rennicks UK, is part of the Rennicks Group. MTS specialises in fully-compliant and portable VMS signs and state-of-the-art traffic or crowd management equipment to hire or buy.

The Advantage range of portable VMS use solar energy to increase efficiency, and the messages on all MTS signs can be can be changed remotely and securely using smartphones and PCs. All the units are compliant to current EN12966-1:2005 regulations, due to test certification from BSI.

MTS also offers portable intelligent data collection technology for better traffic management as well as leading edge CCTV security systems and journey time management solutions.

For advice on how the TSRGD could affect your business, call MTS on 01342 836485.

For more information about Rennicks UK and MTS, visit www.rennicksmts.com

ENDS

Notes to Editors

From events to road works, MTS provides fully-compliant traffic and crowd management solutions to hire or buy.

MTS is the premier provider of signage and mobile traffic solutions. It is part of Rennicks Group and sistercompany to Rennicks UK.

MTS and Rennicks UK provide industry-leading solutions across the country, with innovative and time-proven products, highly-trained staff, efficient service and excellent customer value.

Customers include local authorities, the Highways Agency, TMs and the emergency services.

Rennicks UK also offer a range of retroreflective, reflective and non-reflective sign sheeting, as well as a sign printing service.




Jo Foster
Press release written by Jane Shepherd, Shepherd PR Limited. For more information, or to arrange an interview, call 01335 368020 or email jane@shepherd-pr.com