SIGNING FOR HEAVY VEHICLES

SECTIONS

11.0 Contents

11.1 Introduction

11.2 Range of Applicable Signs and Markings

11.3 Heavy Vehicle Signing Applications

MAY 2012

SARTSM – VOL 2
CHAPTER 11
TITLE
SOUTH AFRICAN ROAD TRAFFIC SIGNS MANUAL Volume 2 Chapter 11

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© National Department of Transport 1999, 2012

KEYWORDS
ROAD SIGN, ROAD MARKING, REGULATORY, WARNING

COST: VOLUME 2

VOLUME SET R

Chapter 1 R Chapter 11 R
Chapter 2 R Chapter 12 R
Chapter 3 R Chapter 13 R
Chapter 4 R Chapter 14 R
Chapter 5 R Chapter 15 R
Chapter 6 R Chapter 16 R
Chapter 7 R Chapter 17 R
Chapter 8 R Chapter 18 R
Chapter 9 R Chapter 19 R
Chapter 10 R
CONTENTS 11.0.1

COMPREHENSIVE/DE-RESTRICTION
CHAPTER 11:
SIGNING FOR HEAVY VEHICLES

CONTENTS

11.0.1 Sections and Subsections

Number Title Page No.

11.0 CONTENTS 11.0.1

11.0.1 Sections and Subsections 11.0.1
11.0.2 Figures 11.0.1
11.0.3 Tables 11.0.2

11.1 INTRODUCTION 11.1.1

11.1.1 General 11.1.1
11.1.2 Summary of Typical Heavy Vehicle Problem Areas 11.1.1
11.1.3 Terminology 11.1.1
11.1.4 Road Traffic Sign Colour Indication 11.1.2

11.2 RANGE OF APPLICABLE SIGNS AND SYMBOLS 11.2.1

11.2.1 General 11.2.1
11.2.2 Basic Symbols 11.2.1
11.2.3 Regulatory Signs 11.2.2
11.2.4 Warning Signs 11.2.2
11.2.5 Guidance Signs 11.2.2
11.2.6 Combination Signs 11.2.8
11.2.7 Relative Placement of Signs at Road Junctions 11.2.10

11.3 FREEWAY SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.1

11.3.1 General 11.3.1
11.3.2 Required Information Display for Access Interchanges 11.3.1
11.3.3 Required Information Display for Systems Interchanges 11.3.4
11.3.4 Basic Requirements for Freeway Direction Sign Sequences 11.3.6
11.3.5 Details of Freeway Direction Sign Sequences 11.3.11
11.3.6 Signing Requirement at Merges - Directional Systems Interchange – Fully Directional 11.3.15
11.3.7 Crossing Road Name Signing in Urban Areas 11.3.20
11.3.8 Emergency Vehicle Signing for Median Crossovers 11.3.25

11.0.2 Figures

Figure No. Title Page No.

Fig 11.1 Applicable Symbols 11.2.3
Fig 11.2 Applicable Regulatory Signs 11.2.5
Fig 11.3 Applicable Warning Signs 11.2.6
Fig 11.4 Applicable Diagrammatic Type Guidance Signs 11.2.7
Fig 11.5 Examples of Typical Sign Combinations 11.2.9
Fig 11.6 Heavy Vehicle Routing Based on Vehicle Characteristics - Rural 11.3.2
Fig 11.7 Heavy Vehicle Routing Based on Vehicle Characteristics - Urban 11.3.3
Fig 11.8 Heavy Vehicle Routing Based on Vehicle and/or Freight Classification 11.3.5
Fig 11.9 Heavy Vehicle Prohibition at a Freeway Offramp – Ground Mounted Sign Sequence 11.3.7
Fig 11.10 Heavy Vehicle Prohibition at a Freeway Offramp – Overhead Signs: Upward Pointing Arrows 11.3.8
Fig 11.11 Heavy Vehicle Prohibition at a Freeway Offramp – Overhead Signs: Downward Pointing 11.3.9
Arrows
Fig 11.12 Local Details of Heavy Vehicle Prohibitions 11.3.10
Fig 11.13 Lane Use Control on Multi-Lane Undivided Roads – Ground Mounted Signs 11.3.12
Fig 11.14 Lane Use Control on Freeways and Divided Multi-Lane Roads - – Ground Mounted Signs 11.3.13

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.0.2 CONTENTS

Figure No. Title Page No.

Fig 11.15 Lane Use Control on Freeways – Overhead Signs 11.3.14
Fig 11.16 Steep Downgrades – Two Lane/Two-way Roads 11.3.16
Fig 11.17 Steep Downgrades – Freeway and Multi-Lane Divided Roads 11.3.17
Fig 11.18 Compulsory Stopping Area in Advance of Steep Downgrade – Ground Mounted Signs 11.3.18
Fig 11.19 Compulsory Stopping Area in Advance of Steep Downgrade – Overhead Signs 11.3.19
Fig 11.20 Signing for Arrestor Bed - Ground Mounted Signs 11.3.21
Fig 11.21 Signing for Arrestor Bed - Overhead Signs 11.3.22
Fig 11.22 Arrestor Bed Road Markings 11.3.23
Fig 11.23 Escape Road Markings 11.3.24
Fig 11.24 Mass measuring Station 11.3.26
Fig 11.25 Example of Signing for Heavy Vehicle Routing Through an Urban Area 11.3.27

11.0.3 Tables

Table No. Title Page No.

Table 11.1 Applicable Regulatory Signs 11.2.4
Table 11.2 Applicable Warning Signs 11.2.6
Table 11.3 Applicable Guidance Signs 11.2.7
Table 11.4 Advance Warning Sign Location and Size 11.2.10
Table 11.5 Spacing Between Consecutive Signs 11.2.10

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

 INTRODUCTION 11.1.1

CHAPTER 11:
SIGNING FOR HEAVY VEHICLES

11.1 INTRODUCTION
11.1.1 General
3 Signing measures to address the problems related to steep
1 The purpose of this chapter is to provide guidelines on, and
down-grades shall include:
illustrate how, under various circumstances, specific signing
related to heavy vehicles and abnormal vehicles should be (a) adequate warning of the down-grade and, where
provided. necessary, details of the down-grade inclusive of slope,
bends and distance;
2 This chapter should be read in conjunction with various
chapters of Volume 1, "Uniform Traffic Control Devices", which (b) enforcement of measures to be taken such as engaging of
deal with signing policies and design principles, together with low gear and speed restrictions;
specific information in the meaning of, and individual (c) adequate advance warning of arrestor beds and escape
application of, all traffic control devices. Specifically the lanes;
following should be referred to:
(d) lane use control.
(a) Chapter 2 - Regulatory Signs;
4 Signing measures to address steep up-grade problems include:
(b) Chapter 3 - Warning Signs;
(a) adequate warning of the up-grade;
(c) Chapter 4 - Guidance Signs;
(b) lane use control.
(d) Chapter 7 - Road Markings.
5 Signing measures to address routing problems include:
3 Numerous supplementary aspects relating to the application of
(a) indication of mandatory routing;
these various road signs are dealt with in Volume 2, and the
following chapters should be referred to: (b) prohibition of use of certain routes.
(a) Chapter 2 - Road Marking Applications; 6 In all situations the agreed signing for heavy vehicles should be
provided an adequate distance before the beginning of the
(b) Chapter 3 - Regulatory and Warning Sign Applications;
condition requiring special signing.
(c) Chapter 5 - Freeway Signing.
11.1.3 Terminology
11.1.2 Summary of Typical Heavy Vehicle
1 The term "heavy vehicle" is used throughout this chapter. The
Problem Areas
term does not, however, have specific legal significance
1 Heavy and abnormal vehicles create numerous problems and with regard to road traffic signs. It refers generally to
are subject to limitations due to their size, mass, freight and/or vehicles over 3500 kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) or gross
operational characteristics. These problems must be addressed combination mass (GCM).
in order to provide safe and efficient traffic operation, and inter
2 For signing purposes the term "heavy vehicles" commonly
alia, specific signing to assist heavy vehicle drivers should be
applies to vehicles over a specified GVM or GCM which is
provided.
considered "heavy" in the environment to which it is related,
2 The typical problem areas are: and is therefore somewhat subjective.
(a) steep down-grades; 3 "Heavy vehicles" over 10 tonnes GVM or GCM refers to all
(b) steep up-grades; such vehicles, including any buses, tractors, construction
vehicles etc. To sign such a collective group of vehicles would
(c) routes, particularly in urban areas where the presence of
require the use of signs such as R102 or R202. If it is required
heavy vehicles creates or increases congestion problems;
to sign only for a single class of vehicle, such as goods heavy
(d) routes with physical limitations which do not allow for vehicles, signs such as R123 to R127 and R229 to R233 are
passage of vehicles with certain characteristics; appropriate (see Section 11.2).
(e) routes with environmental limitations along which passage 4 It should be noted that "command" regulatory signs such as
of certain freight is undesirable or along which noise, R102 and R123 to R127 have two functions. The one is to
vibration or air pollution limits are required; "command" that, in the context of heavy vehicles, a specific
class of vehicle proceeds only in a particular lane or a part of a
(f) delivery sites where there is inadequate off-street parking
roadway. The other "command" function is to reserve that lane
for the delivery vehicles.
or part of a roadway for the indicated class of vehicle only,
therefore, no other class of vehicle shall use such a portion
of the roadway.

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.1.2 INTRODUCTION

11.1.2 Road Traffic Sign Colour Indication

1 The chapters of Volume 2 of the South African Road Traffic
Signs Manual (SARTSM) are not prepared in colour.
Relevant examples used to illustrate appropriate
signs, signals and m arkings are shaded in a
black and white coding which is illustrated
below.
2 The basic principles of the road traffic sign colour coding
system are shown, in colour, in the SADC-RTSM Volume 1,
Chapter 1, Section 1.4, and in the Contents sections of
relevant Volume 1 and 4 Chapters.

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

 SIGNS AND MARKINGS 11.2.1

11.2 RANGE OF APPLICABLE SIGNS AND

MARKINGS
11.2.1 General
1 This section provides firstly an indication of the symbols related
to heavy vehicle regulation, and then relates these to the
specific signs used for this purpose. It also indicates the range
of signs and markings necessary for adequate control and
guidance of heavy vehicles.
11.2.2 Basic Symbols
1 There are a number of basic symbols which are used in various
signs, and as road markings for regulating heavy and abnormal
vehicles. The symbols which are illustrated in Figure 11.1 relate
to aspects such as:
(a) indication of type or class of vehicle;
(b) controlling physical characteristics of vehicles such as
mass, width, length and height which may restrict the use of
a particular route or facility;
(c) specification of specific action such as engaging a lower
gear;
(d) demarcation of a specific feature such as an arrestor bed.
2 These symbols are used in regulatory, warning and guidance
signs.

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.2.2 SIGNS AND MARKINGS

11.2.3 Regulatory Signs

1 The range of regulatory signs applicable specifically to heavy
and abnormal vehicles is given in Table 11.1 and illustrated in
Figure 11.2.
2 The details of the warrants for, and the placement requirements
of, individual signs, are provided in the respective sub-sections
of Volume 1, Chapter 2 while their application is dealt with in
Section 11.3. General applications of regulatory signs are also
covered in Volume 2, Chapter 3.
3 The specific size and colour of regulatory signs is dealt with in
Volume 1, Chapter 1, Section 1.4 and Chapter 2, Section 2.0.
11.2.4 Warning Signs
1 The range of warning signs applicable specifically to heavy and
abnormal vehicles is given in Table 11.2 and illustrated in
Figure 11.3.
2 The details of the warrants for, and the placement requirements
of, individual signs are dealt with in detail in Volume 1, Chapter
1, Section 1.6 and Chapter 3, and their application is dealt with
in Section 11.3. General applications of warning signs are also
covered in Volume 2, Chapter 3.
3 The shape, size and colour of the warning signs is dealt with in
Volume 1, Chapter 1, Section 1.4 and Chapter 3, Section 3.1.
11.2.5 Guidance Signs
1 The guidance signs which are primarily related to heavy vehicle
application are those of the diagrammatic type and these are
listed in Table 11.3 and illustrated in Figure 11.4.
2 The details of the warrants for, and the placement requirements
of, individual diagrammatic signs, are dealt with in detail in
Volume 1, Chapter 1, Section 1.6 and Chapter 4, Section 4.12.
Their shape, size and colour are also dealt with in Section 4.12.
3 When it is required to create a preferred route for heavy
vehicles, or even a route prohibition, it may become necessary
to provide versions of MAP-TYPE DIRECTION sign GD9.
These signs may include appropriate command and/or
prohibition signs and/or vehicle class symbols. An example of
such signing is illustrated in Figure 11.24.

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNS AND MARKINGS 11.2.3

VEHICLES CONVEYING
DANGEROUS GOODS

Fig 11.1 Applicable Symbols

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.2.4 SIGNS AND MARKINGS

TABLE 11.1 APPLICABLE REGULATORY SIGNS TABLE 11.1

Reference Page
Sign Number
Sign Category Description Volume 1 Volume 4
COMMAND SIGNS
Vehicles exceeding mass only R102 2.3.2 2.3.2
Delivery vehicles only R122 2.3.11 2.3.22
Goods vehicles only R123 2.3.11 2.3.23
Goods vehicles over indicated GVM only R124 2.3.12 2.3.24
Construction vehicles only R125 2.3.12 2.3.25
Vehicles conveying dangerous goods only R126 2.3.12 2.3.26
Abnormal vehicles only R127 2.3.12 2.3.27
Agricultural vehicles only R130 2.3.13 2.3.30
PROHIBITION SIGNS
Mass limit R202 2.4.2 2.4.3
Axle massload limit R203 2.4.3 2.4.5
Height limit R204 2.4.4 2.4.6
Length limit R205 2.4.5 2.4.7
No overtaking goods vehicles by goods vehicles R215 2.4.10 2.4.17
No delivery vehicles R228 2.4.18 2.4.29
No goods vehicles R229 2.4.18 2.4.30
No goods vehicles over indicated GVM R230 2.4.19 2.4.31
No construction vehicles R231 2.4.19 2.4.32
No vehicles conveying dangerous goods R232 2.4.19 2.4.33
No abnormal vehicles R233 2.4.19 2.4.34
No agricultural vehicles R236 2.4.20 2.4.37
Width limit R239 2.4.21 2.4.40
RESERVATION SIGNS
Delivery vehicle reservation R312 2.5.7 2.5.12
Delivery vehicle parking reservation R312-P 2.5.7 2.5.12
Goods vehicle reservation R313 2.5.7 2.5.13
Goods vehicle parking reservation R313-P 2.5.7 2.5.13
Goods vehicles over indicated GVM reservation R314 2.5.8 2.5.14
Goods vehicles over indicated GVM parking reservation R314-P 2.5.8 2.5.14
Construction vehicles reservation R315 2.5.8 2.5.15
Construction vehicles parking reservation R315-P 2.5.8 2.5.15
Vehicles conveying dangerous goods reservation R316 2.5.8 2.5.16
Vehicles conveying dangerous goods parking reservation R316-P 2.5.8 2.5.16
Abnormal vehicles reservation R317 2.5.8 2.5.17
Abnormal vehicles parking reservation R317-P 2.5.8 2.5.17

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNS AND MARKINGS 11.2.5

Fig 11.2 Applicable Regulatory Signs

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.2.6 SIGNS AND MARKINGS

Fig 11.3 Applicable Warning Signs

TABLE 11.2 APPLICABLE WARNING SIGNS TABLE 11.2

Reference Page
Sign Category Description Sign Number
Volume 1 Volume 4
Height restricted W320 3.4.8 3.4.20
Length restricted W321 3.4.9 3.4.21
Steep descent W322 3.4.10 3.4.22
Steep ascent W323 3.4.10 3.4.23
Slow moving heavy vehicles W324 3.4.11 3.4.24
Construction vehicles crossing/left W344 3.4.20 3.4.44
Construction vehicles crossing/right W345 3.4.20 3.4.45
Agricultural vehicles W352 3.4.24 3.4.52
Width restricted W360 3.4.26 3.4.60

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNS AND MARKINGS 11.2.7

Fig 11.4 Applicable Diagrammatic Type Guidance Signs

TABLE 11.3 APPLICABLE GUIDANCE SIGNS TABLE 11.3

Reference Page
Sign Category Description Sign Number
Volume 1 Volume 4
DIAGRAMMATIC
Arrestor bed pre-advance exit GS501 4.12.24 8.7.1
Arrestor bed advance exit GS502 4.12.24 8.7.2
Arrestor bed exit GS503 4.12.24 8.7.3
Arrestor bed gore exit GS504 4.12.24 8.7.3
Low gear engagement GS505 4.12.24 8.7.4
Overhead: arrestor bed advance exit GS601 4.12.26 8.8.1
Overhead: arrestor bed exit GS602 4.12.26 8.8.2
Overhead: lane use control (command) GS603 4.12.26 8.8.3
Overhead: lane use control (prohibition) GS604 4.12.26 8.8.3
Overhead: lane use control – with distance (command) GS605 4.12.26 8.8.4
Overhead: lane use control – with distance (prohibition) GS606 4.12.26 8.8.4
Overhead: arrestor bed pre-advance exit sign GS6501 4.12.28 8.8.16
DIRECTION
Map-type direction GD9 4.8.17 5.3.32

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.2.8 SIGNS AND MARKINGS

11.2.6 Combination Signs actions, which include movements or turns, the applicability of
1 There are numerous combinations of signs which relate to the which are qualified by secondary message signs relating to an
regulation of heavy and abnormal vehicles, a few examples of object being regulated, (see Volume 1, Chapter 2, Subsection
which are given in Figure 11.5. 2.7.18). Typical examples are:
There are four relevant types of sign combination: (a) a COMMAND sign indicating the mandatory requirement to
TURN LEFT ahead, applying to DELIVERY VEHICLES
(a) regulatory selective restriction combining primary and
only - see Detail 11.5.1;
secondary messages (these messages are classified into
LIMIT, ACTION, OBJECT messages in (b) a PROHIBITION sign indicating that a prohibition exists on
combination) - selective restriction signs may also be the OVERTAKING of GOODS VEHICLES by VEHICLES
combined with an information class SUPPLEMENTARY CONVEYING HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES - see Detail
PLATE sign IN11 (see Details 11.5.1 and 11.5.4); 11.5.1.
(b) guidance/regulatory signs in combination in one of two 6 OBJECT-LIMIT types of SELECTIVE RESTRICTION
forms: regulatory signs comprise primary message signs relating to
objects, the applicability of which are qualified by secondary
(i) a regulatory sign placed on the face of a DIRECTION
message signs relating to a limit. Applications of this type of
sign (such applications are not common except for toll
SELECTIVE RESTRICTION SIGN should be restricted to
routes and will usually require a specifically designed
secondary message TIME LIMITS. Speed or mass limits
sign) (see Detail 11.5.2);
should not be used, (see Volume 1, Chapter 2, Subsection
(ii) one or more regulatory signs placed on a 2.7.19). A typical example is:
DIAGRAMMATIC sign (see Detail 11.5.3);
(a) a TEMPORARY RESERVATION sign indicates a
(c) advance warning/information sign combinations involving TEMPORARY reservation on the use of a roadway or area
one or more information SUPPLEMENTARY PLATE signs by CONSTRUCTION VEHICLES within the TIME LIMIT
IN11 (see Detail 11.5.5); 06:30 to 20:00 - see Detail 11.5.1.
(d) regulatory and/or warning signs on high visibility 7 A LIMIT-OBJECT type of SELECTIVE RESTRICTION sign
backgrounds - with or without information signs (see Detail (see paragraph [Link]) which may be particularly relevant in
11.5.5). urban areas relates to a parking restriction specific to a class of
2 LIMIT-LIMIT type of SELECTIVE RESTRICTION regulatory heavy vehicle. A typical example is:
signs comprise primary and secondary message signs both of (a) a (TIME) LIMITED PARKING RESERVATION sign
which relate to limits of one type or another. The addition of the indicating a maximum stay limit of 120 minutes for
secondary limit message to the primary limit message qualifies DELIVERY VEHICLES - see Detail 11.5.1.
the applicability of the primary limit (see Volume 1, Chapter 2,
8 These types of combination selective restriction regulatory
Subsection 2.7.15). Typical examples are:
signs may also include a supplementary information plate as
(a) a PROHIBITION sign indicating that vehicles exceeding a indicated in Detail 11.5.4.
MASS LIMIT of 5 tonnes shall not proceed beyond the sign
9 Prior advice of a limiting factor which may affect heavy vehicles
within the TIME LIMIT of 18:00 to 08:00 - see Detail 11.5.1;
at some point on the road ahead should be given well in
(b) a PROHIBITION sign indicating a SPEED LIMIT of 40km/h advance of the limiting point as indicated in Detail 11.5.4. In this
for all vehicles with a GVM exceeding a MASS LIMIT of 10 example, early indication is given of a height restriction ahead
tonnes - see Detail 11.5.1. enabling the affected vehicles to take an alternative route.
3 LIMIT-OBJECT types of SELECTIVE RESTRICTION 10 Various heavy vehicle and abnormal vehicle related advance
regulatory signs comprise primary message signs relating to warning signs may be used in combination as indicated in the
limits, the applicability of which are qualified by secondary following examples:
message signs relating to an object being regulated, (see
(a) a steep down-grade sign (W323) combined with an
Volume 1, Chapter 2, Subsection 2.7.16). A typical example is:
information sign (IN11.2) indicating the length of the
(a) a COMMAND sign indicating a MINIMUM SPEED of 30 down-grade - see Detail 11.5.5;
km/h applies to all GOODS VEHICLES - see Detail 11.5.1.
(b) the combination of the steep down-grade sign (W322) with
4 ACTION-LIMIT types of SELECTIVE RESTRICTION regulatory a warning of a winding road ahead sign (W209) on a high
signs comprise primary message signs relating to actions, visibility background and an indication of the length of the
which include movements or turns, the applicability of which are down-grade (IN11.2 information sign) is shown in Detail
qualified by secondary message signs relating to a limit (see 11.5.5;
Volume 1, Chapter 2, Subsection 2.7.17). A typical example is:
(c) various combinations of warning of a steep down-grade or
(a) a COMMAND sign indicating a mandatory requirement to compulsory stop on a high visibility background with details
PROCEED STRAIGHT ON ONLY applying only to GOODS of the nature of the downgrade, and including the option of
VEHICLES of the GVM or GCM MASS INDICATED (on the
symbol) - see Detail 11.5.1. flashing warning lights, are illustrated in Detail 11.5.5

5 ACTION-OBJECT types of SELECTIVE RESTRICTION

regulatory signs comprise primary message signs relating to

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNS AND MARKINGS 11.2.9

No Overtaking Goods Vehicles

By Vehicles Conveying
Dangerous Goods

Fig 11.5
Examples of Typical Sign
Combinations

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.2.10 SIGNS AND MARKINGS

11.2.7 Relative Placement of Signs at Road

Junctions
1 At road junctions numerous signs in addition to the heavy vehicle (e) local direction signs - Volume 1, Chapter 4, Section 4.11 and
related signs have to be accommodated, namely: Volume 2, Chapter 9.

(a) regulatory signs such as stop and yield signs; 3 The distance which an advance warning sign must be placed
ahead of the hazard, and its size, are dependent on the
(b) advance warning and hazard marker signs;
operating speed of the road, as indicated in Table 11.4.
(c) direction signs;
4 In all cases of signing where several sign types are required
(d) tourism and/or local direction signs. close to each other, as on the immediate approach to a junction,
2 The basic requirement for the placement of signs is dealt with in priority should be given firstly to the regulatory signs, then the
the following chapters/sections of the Manual: warning signs, the direction signs and finally the tourism signs.
Signing for heavy vehicle control on the approach to an
(a) regulatory signs - Volume 1, Chapter 2 and Volume 2,
intersection is likely to require signs in addition to a standard
Chapter 3;
sequence of signs. Care must be exercised regarding the
(b) warning signs - Volume 1, Chapter 3 and Volume 2, Chapter proximity of one sign to another. In addition sign spacings must
3; always be adjusted to take account of the total sign display and
(c) direction signs - Volume 1, Chapter 4, Section 4.8 (see the road geometry, both horizontal and vertical (see Volume 1,
specifically Figures 4.56, 4.57 and 4.58); Section 1.6). Guidelines for sign spacing are given in Table 11.5.
(d) tourism signs - Volume 1, Chapter 4, Section 4.10 and
Volume 2, Chapter 4;

TABLE 11.4 ADVANCE WARNING SIGN LOCATION AND SIZE TABLE 11.4

Operating Speed (km/h) Location Distance from Hazard (m) Recommended Size (mm)
120 330 (400) 1500
100 240 (320) 1500
80 160 (220) 1200
60 120 (160) 900

NOTE:

(1) Figures in brackets represent extended location positions

for advance signs.

TABLE 11.5 SPACING BETWEEN CONSECUTIVE SIGNS TABLE 11.5

Operating Speed Minimum Separation (m) Preferred Separation (m)

(km/h) Freeway Other Roads Freeway Other Roads
120 150 100 225 200
100 90 80 175 150
80 120 60 135 100
60 n/a 50 n/a 90

NOTE:

(1) Separations indicated apply between any two consecutive (4) If a section of road is “busy” in terms of driver workload
signs irrespective of class. preferred sign separations, or better, should be specified.
(2) Legibility of text must also be taken into account when
deciding which sign should come first of a closely
reparated pair of signs.
(3) The sign sequences in this chapter should not be erected
without due attention to sign spacing – there is no point in
putting up signs that cannot be seen.

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

 SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.1

11.3 HEAVY VEHICLE SIGNING

APPLICATIONS
11.3.1 General
5 An additional example of routing control is given in Figure 11.24.
1 The problem areas identified in Subsection 11.1.2 of this chapter
Refer also to Figure 3.9 and Figure 3.42 in Chapter 3 of Volume
are looked at in detail in this section and the signing
2.
requirements for the following situations are addressed:
(a) heavy vehicle routing based on vehicle physical
characteristics for rural and urban situations;
(b) heavy vehicle routing based on vehicle or freight
classification;
(c) prohibition of vehicles on certain routes;
(d) lane control in relation to steep up-grades;
(e) lane control in relation to down-grades, inclusive of
mandatory stopping points;
(f) requirements at arrestor beds;
(g) requirements at mass measuring stations.
2 In the following sections the figures detailing the signing
requirements focus specifically on the heavy vehicle/abnormal
vehicle aspects, but where necessary other signing is indicated
although not detailed.
11.3.2 Routing Based on Vehicle
Characteristics
1 Under various limiting circumstances it will be necessary to divert
heavy or abnormal vehicles from a route which has certain
physical restrictions and will thus not permit passage of certain
vehicles. Thus drivers of vehicles which exceed a specified
mass, height, width or length must be provided with clear signing
as to what alternatives are open to them.
2 Principles which should be borne in mind are:
(a) positive guidance for such vehicles must be given to the
alternative route(s), that is, there must not merely be a
prohibition of a specific route but the alternative(s) must be
clearly and continuously signed until the original route can be
joined again; where appropriate a MAP TYPE ADVANCE
DIRECTION sign GD9 indicating the extent of the detour
should be considered (see Figure 11.24);
(b) adequate warning of a restriction ahead must be given.
3 The signing requirements for routing heavy vehicles are given in
Figure 11.6 for rural application and in Figure 11.7 for urban
application. The examples indicate a requirement for all goods
vehicles over 10 tonnes to follow the route indicated. The
instruction could also be based on the height restriction, width
restriction, length restriction or axle mass restriction. Other
routing specifications may be used where appropriate and as
shown in the respective figures. The route to be taken by heavy
vehicles is shaded in the figures for additional emphasis.
4 Mandatory command signs such as R108-569 or R109-569 must
be used with care. The primary regulatory message used in
selective restriction signs of this sort must be chosen so as to
achieve the intended purpose. As a general rule the use of an
ACTION- OBJECT selective restriction combination is
recommended. The use of a primary OBJECT message is
NOT recommended unless the route is exclusively for the
class of vehicles concerned (see paragraph [Link]).

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11.3.2 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.6
Heavy Vehicle Routing Based on
Vehicle Characteristics - Rural

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SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.3

Fig 11.7
Heavy Vehicle Routing Based on
Vehicle Characteristics - Urban

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.3.4 SIGNING APPLICATIONS
11.3.3 Routing Based on Vehicle and/or Freight
Classification
1 Under certain circumstances it may be necessary to re-route
certain types of vehicles and/or vehicles carrying certain types of
freight, such as various toxic materials, away from certain areas.
Drivers of these vehicles must be provided with clear signing as
to what alternatives are open to them.
2 For the principles applicable here, see paragraph [Link].
3 The example given in Figure 11.8 illustrates the required signing
for rerouting vehicles carrying hazardous materials. Other routing
specifications may be used where appropriate as shown in this
figure. The route to be taken by heavy vehicles is shaded in the
figures for additional emphasis.
4 Mandatory command signs such as R108-569 or R109-569 must
be used with care. The primary regulatory message used in
selective restriction signs of this sort must be chosen so as to
achieve the intended purpose. As a general rule the use of an
ACTION- OBJECT selective restriction combination is
recommended. The use of a primary OBJECT message is
NOT recommended unless the route is exclusively for the
class of vehicles concerned (see paragraph [Link]).

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SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.5

Fig 11.8
Heavy Vehicle Routing Based on
Vehicle and/or Freight Classification

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.3.6 SIGNING APPLICATIONS
11.3.4 Heavy Vehicle Route Prohibition
1 Specific circumstances may necessitate the prohibition of certain exceeding 10 tonnes is indicated. If advance indication is considered
vehicles or types of freight along certain routes. Aspects of using necessary, signs such as R209-569 and R210-569 can be located
prohibition signs have been indicated in Subsections 11.3.2 and up to 120 m in advance of the junction or access, subject to the
operating speed of the road. These signs should then be followed by
11.3.3 where the signs have been used in conjunction with a
signs R211-569 and R212-569 at the point of turn, as illustrated in
system of positive guidance through command signs. There are
Detail 11.12.2 in Figure 11.12.
instances, however, where only prohibition signs are used,
namely:
(a) prohibited exit from a freeway at a specific interchange;
(b) prohibition of access onto a minor side road;
(c) prohibition of access into a private entrance to a
development such as an office park, shopping centre,
townhouse complex, etc.
2 The signing for prohibiting of certain vehicles from exiting a
freeway at a particular interchange is illustrated in Figure 11.9
where a ground-mounted sign system is used, and in Figure
11.10 where an overhead upward pointing arrow sign system is
used. The means of indicating the prohibition is by incorporating
the appropriate prohibition sign into the section of the arrow
indicating the off-ramp in each of the direction signs in the
sequence leading up to the off-ramp. In order to make the
prohibition legally effective a ground-mounted prohibition sign
shall be placed at the entrance to, and on the left side of the
off-ramp as shown in the figures. A second sign on the right of
the off-ramp is recommended (see Figure 11.12).
3 Where a downward pointing arrow system is used in the
direction signs in advance of an interchange, the incorporation of
the prohibition sign in the arrows is not possible. In such a
sequence this is only possible in the arrow of the GC1
pre-advance exit direction sign. Another approach must be taken
to indicate the exit prohibition as illustrated in Figure 11.11. For
the example shown, this is achieved by:
(a) including a R107-569-RA sign with the GC2 sign one
kilometre from the exit and with and between the GC2 and
GC3 signs 500 metres from the exit;
(b) including a GS604 sign (incorporating the R230 sign) next to
the GC4D sign as shown.
The example illustrated in Figure 11.11 indicates a prohibition for
all goods vehicles over 10 tonnes but other alternatives for other
vehicle restrictions, as indicated, are also possible. The
appropriate prohibition sign shall also be ground-mounted on the
left-hand side of the exit ramp. A second sign on the right of the
off-ramp is recommended. The display of a ground-mounted
version of a command sign such as R107-569 on the left of the
through carriageway of the freeway, just beyond the GORE-EXIT
sign GA4, is optional (see Figure 11.12).
4 At a minor side street junction or private access to a
development where heavy vehicle access is prohibited, a
selective restriction R209 sign in combination with the symbol of
the prohibited vehicle should be placed immediately ahead of the
entrance while a similar R210 combination sign for right-turning
vehicles should be placed on the far side approach as indicated
in Figure 11.12. In this example a prohibition on goods vehicles

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.7

6 NO VEHICLES CONVEYING
DANGEROUS GOODS

Fig 11.9
Heavy Vehicle Prohibition at a
Freeway Offramp – Ground Mounted
Sign Sequence

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.8 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

6 NO VEHICLES CONVEYING
DANGEROUS GOODS

Fig 11.10
Heavy Vehicle Prohibition at a
Freeway Offramp – Overhead Signs:
Upward Pointing Arrows

TOURISM SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.9

6 NO VEHICLES CONVEYING
DANGEROUS GOODS

Fig 11.11
Heavy Vehicle Prohibition at a
Freeway Offramp – Overhead Signs:
Downward Pointing Arrows

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.10 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.12 Local Details of Heavy Vehicle Prohibitions

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

 SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.11
11.3.5 Lane Use Control in Relation to Steep
Up-grades
1 Long up-grades tend to slow down vehicles, especially heavy
vehicles, and in order to maintain high levels of service, it is
generally expedient in such areas to separate the slower and
fast moving traffic. An integral part of effectively separating the
slow traffic is achieved through signing.
2 The separation of traffic may be accomplished in one of the
following two ways:
(a) the prohibition of use of certain lanes by heavy vehicles;
(b) the mandatory use of certain lanes by a specific class of
vehicle (which prohibits their use by other classes of vehicle).
3 The signing required is illustrated as follows:
(a) Figure 11.13 indicates the requirements for lane use control
on multilane undivided roads using ground-mounted signs;
(b) Figure 11.14 indicates the requirements for lane use control
on freeways and multilane divided roads using
ground-mounted signs.
(c) Figure 11.15 indicates the requirements for lane use control
on freeways using overhead signs.
4 Command signs incorporated into the diagrammatic sign shall
only be used when the lane so designated is for the
exclusive use of the vehicle type indicated.
5 If the exclusive use of a lane by the class of vehicle to be
controlled is not practical due to the mix of traffic using the road,
effective control may be achieved by specifying an appropriate
MINIMUM SPEED in the right side lane (or centre and right side
lanes on a 3-lane roadway). To achieve such control, command
MINIMUM SPEED sign R101 can be placed in a diagrammatic
sign GS303 or GS305, as appropriate. The value of minimum
speed to be displayed should be determined as a result of an
engineering assessment of the specific site, but it is likely to be
higher than normally used on sign R101, typically in the range of
60 km/h to 80 km/h.
6 Signs are required as follows:
(a) at a minimum distance of 5 km apart where the affected
distance is longer than 5 km; and
(b) in the case of freeways, immediately after every interchange.
7 With regard to construction vehicles, where relevant, temporary
signing may be used during the construction period.

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.12 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

iv. Vehicles
Carrying
Dangerous
Goods

Fig 11.13
Lane Use Control on Multi-lane
Undivided Roads – Ground Mounted
Signs

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.13

iv. Vehicles
Carrying
Dangerous
Goods

Fig 11.14
Lane Use Control on Freeways and
Divided Multi-lane Roads –
Ground Mounted Signs

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.14 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.15
Lane Use Control on Freeways -
Overhead Signs

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.15
11.3.6 Lane and Vehicle Control in Relation to
Steep Down-grades
1 A potentially dangerous situation exists for heavy vehicles on
steep and/or long down-grades and effective warning of the
approach of such down-grades in order to slow down the
vehicles timeously to enable the engaging of a low gear is
essential.
2 The following figures illustrate various aspects related to the
signing in advance of a steep down-grade:
(a) Figure 11.16 indicates typical requirements for a two-lane
two-way roadway;
(b) Figure 11.17 indicates typical requirements for a freeway or
multilane divided road;
(c) Figure 11.18 indicates typical requirements where there is a
compulsory heavy vehicle stop ahead, in advance of the start
of the down-grade on a freeway or multilane divided road,
using ground-mounted signs;
(d) Figure 11.19 indicates typical requirements where there is a
compulsory heavy vehicle stop ahead, in advance of the start
of the down-grade on a freeway or multilane divided road,
using overhead signs.
3 Figure 11.16 illustrates the situation where no special provisions
are made for the heavy vehicles in the way of an exclusive
crawler lane, and thus it is advisable to provide the SLOW
MOVING TRAFFIC advance warning sign W324 at the start of
the down-grade rather than the advance warning of a STEEP
DESCENT sign W322. The maximum speed allowable will be
dictated by the horizontal geometric design of the down-grade.
On long down-grades the W324 and the R201 signs should be
repeated at regular intervals of not more than 2 km.
4 Figure 11.17 illustrates the situation where an exclusive crawler
lane is provided for the heavy vehicles. For a situation where
heavy vehicles are prohibited from the right-hand lane but all
vehicles may use the left-hand lane, then the GS301 or GS303
sign incorporating the R124 sign located at 500 m and 800 m
from the start of the steep descent should be omitted.
5 Figure 11.18 illustrates the situation where a mandatory heavy
vehicle stop is provided in advance of the steep down-grade, and
heavy vehicles are required to use an exclusive crawler lane on
the down-grade. The provision of a stop is desirable in advance
of long and/or steep down-grades and this situation is preferable
to that indicated in Figure 11.17.
6 Figure 11.19 illustrates the situation on a multilane freeway
where a mandatory heavy vehicle stop is provided in advance of
the steep down-grade, and an exclusive crawler lane for heavy
vehicles is provided.

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.16 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.16
Steep Downgrades – Two Lane/Two-way
Roads

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.17

Fig 11.17
Steep Downgrades – Freeway and
Multilane Divided Roads

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.18 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.18
Compulsory Stopping Area in Advance
of Steep Downgrade – Ground Mounted
Signs

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.19

Fig 11.19
Compulsory Stopping Area in Advance
of Steep Downgrade – Overhead Signs

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

 11.3.20 SIGNING APPLICATIONS
11.3.7 Arrestor Beds/Escape Roads
1 On long and/or steep down-grades, arrestor beds or escape
roads should be provided as a safe escape device for out of
control heavy vehicles. The signing to advise drivers of heavy
vehicles of the approach of an arrestor bed or escape road is as
illustrated in Figure 11.20 and Figure 11.21.
2 Figure 11.20 illustrates the signing requirements on an arrestor
bed approach using ground-mounted signs while Figure 11.21
illustrates the signing requirements on the approach to an
arrestor bed on a freeway using overhead signs. Similar signing
may be used on the approach to an escape road (see paragraph
[Link]).
3 On two-way single lane roads the arrestor bed should have a
left-hand exit unless the lanes are split as indicated in Figure
11.20.
4 Figure 11.22 illustrates the special markings required at an
arrestor bed. In addition to the paint markings, white roadstuds
are to be placed along the outside edge of the arrestor bed
apron for clear demarcation of the arrestor bed at night or in
misty weather.
5 Figure 11.23 shows the special markings required when an
escape road is provided. The function of an escape road is to
provide an unobstructed path through what would otherwise be a
physical barrier across a roadway, on, or at the end of, a long
and/or steep downgrade. The most likely application is at a toll
plaza spanning the full width of the plaza apron. The route of the
escape road, and its position through the plaza should be as
direct as possible so that a heavy vehicle driver is not required to
significantly change direction of a runaway vehicle on the
approach to the plaza. The purpose of road marking WM9.2 is to
make this direct path obvious.
6 Subject to expected weather conditions at an arrestor bed i.e.
mist or fog, the reduced area of coverage of marking WM9.2
may be considered at arrestor beds.
7 Due to the relatively small size of ARRESTOR BED symbol
GSS1 on signs GS501 to GS504 it is recommended that the
same symbol be used for signs provided for both arrestor beds
and escape routes.

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.21

Fig 11.20
Signing for Arrestor Beds – Ground
Mounted Signs

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.22 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fog 11.21 Signing for Arrestor Bed – Overhead Signs

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.23

Fig 11.22
Arrestor Bed Road Markings

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.24 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.23
Escape Road Markings

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

 SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.25

11.3.8 Compulsory Use of a Mass Measuring

Station
1 The approach to a mass measuring station should be signed as
illustrated in Figure 11.24. If the mass measuring station is not
permanently manned, allowance should be made for signs to be
covered up or removed when the mass measuring station is not
operational.
2 On single lane two-way traffic roads carrying heavy volumes of
traffic an additional deceleration lane, at least 300 metres long,
should be provided on the approach to the mass measuring
station entrance for the heavy vehicles (see Detail 11.24.2).

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES

11.3.26 SIGNING APPLICATIONS

Fig 11.24
Mass Measuring Station

HEAVY VEHICLES SARTSM – VOL 2 MAY 2012

SIGNING APPLICATIONS 11.3.27

Fig 11.25
Example of Signing for Heavy
Vehicle Routing Through an
Urban Area

MAY 2012 SARTSM – VOL 2 HEAVY VEHICLES