Roadside signage and advertising
Roadside signs are provided to aid the safe and efficient movement of traffic. They may contain instructions which the road user is required to obey and warning of hazards which may not be self-evident. They can also provide information about routes, directions, destinations and points of interest. Roadside signs are thus an important traffic control device used to regulate, warn, guide and inform road users — thereby improving the safe and efficient movement of traffic.
As roadside signs are an essential part of the road traffic system, their messages should be consistent, and their design and placement coordinated with the road geometric design. Uniformity and standardisation in the design and location of signs facilitate easy identification and understanding by the road user.
Similar conditions should always be treated with the same type of sign, so that road users can readily anticipate (based on their past experiences) the course of action required. The use of a sign which is at variance with its use elsewhere is confusing, and consequently creates a potentially hazardous situation.
Application of the current appropriate warrants and guidelines ensures that roadside signs are installed consistently, and that current best practice in roadside signage is delivered.
Our signage resources page has an extensive range of commonly used signage guidelines.
Last updated: 01 June 2009
