Advanced Warning Signs: Their Use and Importance in Traffic Management
- Laura. H.
- Jul 7
- 3 min read
When it comes to keeping road users and workers safe, advanced warning signs play a vital role in temporary traffic management. These signs are more than just symbols and words on a board – they are carefully placed, timed, and designed to influence driver behaviour, protect lives, and ensure the smooth operation of works on the road network.
At Beaumont Traffic Management, we understand that every cone, barrier, and sign contributes to a safe working environment. In this blog, we explore what advanced warning signs are, why they’re so important, and how they are used effectively in our day-to-day operations.
What Are Advanced Warning Signs?
Advanced warning signs are temporary signs placed ahead of a roadwork site or event to alert motorists to upcoming changes in road conditions. These could include:
Lane closures
Reduced speed limits
Temporary traffic signals
Road narrowing
Diversion routes
Pedestrian management zones
These signs are governed by strict guidance under the Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual and the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice. Their placement and visibility must be precise to give road users adequate time to react and adjust their driving accordingly.
Why Are They Important?
1. Protecting Road Users and Workers
Advanced warning signs give drivers critical information in advance, helping them prepare for upcoming changes. This is essential for reducing the risk of collisions and maintaining a safe working area for operatives.
2. Minimising Disruption
Clear and timely signage helps maintain traffic flow, reducing the likelihood of congestion, driver frustration, or confusion, especially in high-speed environments or during complex operations like contraflows and overnight closures.
3. Legal Compliance
Proper use of advanced warning signage is a legal requirement. Failing to follow guidance can result in fines, enforcement action, or worse – serious incidents on the network. At Beaumont Traffic Management, we always ensure compliance with national regulations and local authority requirements.
4. Building Public Trust
Clear, consistent, and accurate signage shows professionalism. It reassures the public that the works are being managed responsibly, which is especially important in high-profile or long-duration projects.
How Beaumont Traffic Management Uses Advanced Warning Signs
We tailor our signage strategy for each job, factoring in road classification, speed limits, visibility, time of day, and specific risks at the site. Some of the ways we deploy advanced warning signs include:
Progressive warning systems: A sequence of signs that gradually informs and guides drivers to a safe speed and lane position.
Reflective and illuminated signs: Ensuring visibility in low light or adverse weather conditions.
Digital message boards (VMS): Providing real-time updates or variable information.
Event-specific signage: Custom signs for local events or complex traffic arrangements.
Incorporating Variable Message Signs (VMS)
At Beaumont Traffic Management, we regularly incorporate Variable Message Signs (VMS) into our advanced warning strategies. These digital signs are highly effective for displaying real-time, dynamic messages to road users, especially in fast-changing environments or during night-time works.
VMS boards allow us to:
Display up-to-date messages about roadworks, delays, diversions, or closures
Adapt messaging quickly if conditions change on site
Improve visibility with bright LED displays, especially during poor weather or low light
Reinforce static signage with additional instructions or safety messages
Whether it’s a warning about upcoming overnight closures, reminding drivers of reduced speeds, or directing them to alternative routes, VMS helps us deliver clear and immediate communication that supports both public safety and operational success.
Advanced warning signs – including both static and digital options – are a cornerstone of effective temporary traffic management. At Beaumont Traffic Management, we prioritise clear communication and careful planning to keep everyone safe – from our workers on the ground to every road user passing through.
Whether it’s a small utility job or a large-scale motorway closure, we understand that getting the signage right from the outset makes all the difference.
Contact us for experienced, compliant, and professional traffic management for your next project?
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