Sultanate of Oman.

Highway Design Standards 2010

19
Traffic Signs and Road Markings

19.1 Traffic Signs 19-1

19.1.1 Introduction 19-1
19.1.2 Upright Signs 19-2
19.1.3 Design of Upright Signs 19-2
19.1.4 Construction of Upright Signs
(Including Temporary Traffic Management Signs) 19-4
19.1.5 Erection of Upright Signs 19-4
19.1.6 Advertisement Boards 19-5

19.2 Road Markings 19-5

19.2.1 General 19-5
19.2.2 Box Markings for Junctions 19-6
19.2.3 Ceramic Buttons 19-6
19.2.4 Flashing Beacons 19-6
19.2.5 Traffic Cones, Cylinders and Plastic Safety Barriers 19-6

19.3 References 19-6

List of Figures Figure 19.1.2.15: Directional Signs (6 of 6), Use of List of Tables
Background Color for Map Type Signs 19-21
Figure 19.1.5.1: Back of Sign Fixing and Foundation Detail 19-4 Table 19.1.1.1: Examples of Primary Destinations
Figure 19.1.2.16: Directional/Informative Signs for for Road signs 19-1
Figure 19.1.2.1: Warning Signs (1 of 3) 19-7
Public and Private Facilities 19-22
Table 19.1.1.2: Phonetic Translation of Names – Examples 19-1
Figure 19.1.2.2: Warning Signs (2 of 3) 19-8
Figure 19.1.2.17: Location and Size Distance Markers
Table 19.1.1.3: Examples of phonetic translation of
Figure 19.1.2.3: Warning Signs (3 of 3) 19-9 and Object Markers 19-23
sounds into English for particular Arabic Scripts 19-2
Figure 19.1.2.4: Regulatory Signs (1 of 3) 19-10 Figure 19.1.2.18: Marker Posts and Delineator Posts 19-24
Table 19.1.3.1: Tile widths and clearances for English letters 19-3
Figure 19.1.2.5: Regulatory Signs (2 of 3) 19-11 Figure 19.1.2.19: Typical Sign Layout at Priority Junctions 19-25
Table 19.1.3.2: Lettering sizes for Direction Signs 19-3
Figure 19.1.2.6: Regulatory Signs (3 of 3) 19-12 Figure 19.1.2.20: Typical Sign Layout at Roundabouts 19-26
Table 19.1.3.3: Size and siting of Triangular Warning Signs 19-3
Figure 19.1.2.7: Informative Signs 19-13 Figure 19.1.2.21: Typical Sign Layouts for
Table 19.1.3.4: Size and siting of Stop and Give-Way signs 19-4
Figure 19.1.2.8: Supplementary Plates 19-14 Interchanges (1 of 2) 19-27
Table 19.1.3.5: Minimum visibility below which
Figure 19.1.2.9: Temporary Signs and Signs at Roadworks 19-15 Figure 19.1.2.22: Typical Sign Layouts for
a Stop Sign should be provided 19-4
Interchanges (2 of 2) 19-28
Figure 19.1.2.10: Directional Signs (1 of 6) National Table 19.1.3.6: Size and siting of Circular Regulatory Signs 19-4
& Arterial Routes 19-16 Figure 19.2.1.1: Road Markings (1 of 5) Longitudinal
Markings 19-29 Table 19.2.1.1: Spacing of Transverse Bar Markings 19-5
Figure 19.1.2.11: Directional Signs (2 of 6) National
Figure 19.2.1.2: Road Markings (2 of 5) Longitudinal Table 19.2.1.2: Center Line Markings 19-6
& Arterial Routes 19-17
Markings 19-30
Figure 19.1.2.12: Directional Signs (3 of 6) Secondary
Routes 19-18 Figure 19.2.1.3: Road Markings (3 of 5) at T-Junctions
and Ramp Gore Areas 19-31
Figure 19.1.2.13: Directional Signs (4 of 6), Distributor
and Access Routes 19-19 Figure 19.2.1.4: Road Markings (4 of 5) Roundabout
Approaches and Junction Box Marking 19-32
Figure 19.1.2.14: Directional Signs (5 of 6), Use of
Background Colour for Stack Type Signs 19-20 Figure 19.2.1.5: Road Markings (5 of 5) Pedestrian
Crossing and Lane Arrows 19-33
 Sultanate of Oman. Highway Design Standards 2010

Traffic Signs and Road Markings

19
19.1 TRAFFIC SIGNS c) The avoidance of emphasis in spelling a word since it does not change the pronunciation (for non-Arabic
speakers), e.g. “wud instead of wuuud” or ”mathayib instead of mathaaiib or mathaaeeb”.
19.1.1 Introduction d) The avoidance, as much as possible, of the use of the two Arabic characters (‫ )ء‬and (‫)ع‬, which cause a chain
of silent sounds, except in some cases where the character ‘y’ is used to represent the (‫ )ع‬or (‫ )ء‬such as
19.1.1.1 This section of the Oman Highway Design Standards covers traffic signs and road markings. “mathayib” instead of ”mathaib” that could be pronounced wrongly.

19.1.1.2 Oman reflects International, including GCC conventions in the design and use of traffic signs and road e) The use of small letters for “al” to represent the Arabic prefix, since this prefix is not a major part in the word,
markings. but an addition to it. The method of pronunciation of “al” should not affect the equivalent phonetic spelling.
f) The names (proper nouns) have not been translated in terms of meaning.
19.1.1.3 Traffic signs used in Oman include:
g) Some rules for translating geographic names (in the unified Arabic system for copying geographic names)
Upright signs - (Warning, regulatory, directional and informative signs placed alongside or over the road)
n are exempted from these principles for simplification. For example, the phonetic sounds when translating the
Road markings - (including metal or plastic studs)
n geographic name to the Latin characters in cases such as tourist maps, lists, directions, and research studies.
Flashing beacons
n h) The translation of some terms included in composite names, such as: the roundabout and street (were
Traffic Cones
n translated to their synonym in English), while the geographic names were copied to the Latin characters
(English) as they are, character by character, like: Mabaila al Shamaliyya, al Khuwair al Janubiyya and al
19.1.1.4 Traffic signals are also regarded as traffic signs and the design requirements are dealt with in Section 8 Wutayya.
of these Standards.
Examples of the use of the above methods for traffic sign names are provided in the following Tables 19.1.1.2 and
19.1.1.5 Good traffic signing can make a significant contribution to the safe and efficient operation of the route 3, along with examples of the breakdown of phonetic Arabic into equivalent English (latin) alphabetic.
network. Traffic signs must give clear information to drivers so that their message can be understood quickly and
‫النموذج املقرتح اعتمادا على الأ�س�س العلمية لعلم الأ�صوات‬ ‫اال�سم العربي‬ ‫م‬
easily. Signs should be sited to give information to drivers when they need it. If information is given too soon, it may
al Sayidiyya Street ‫�شارع ال�سعيدية‬ 1
be forgotten by the time it is needed. If it is given too late, it may lead to sudden and dangerous manoeuvres.
al Wiyam Roundabout ‫دوار الوئام‬ 2
Examples of Destinations in Oman al Shati Street ‫�شارع ال�شاطيء‬ 3
Adam Ibra Nizwa Shelim Ifa Street ‫�شارع ِعف�آء‬ 4
Bahla Ibri Quriyat Shinas al Amirat Road ‫طريق العامرات‬ 5
Barka Izki al Rustaq Sohar al Shira Street ‫�شارع ال�رشاع‬ 6
Bidbid al Kamil Salalah Sur al Jamiya Roundabout ‫دوار اجلامعة‬ 7
al Buraimi al Khaburah Sarfayt al Suwayq al Qala Roundabout ‫دوار القلعة‬ 8
Daba al Bayah Khasab al Seeb Taqah al Marifa Roundabout ‫دوار املعرفة‬ 9
Dank Khatmat Milaha Musandam Thumrait Ard al Sada Street ‫�شارع �أر�ض ال�سعادة‬ 10
al Hamra Madha Muscat International Tibat al Mashayil Street ‫�شارع امل�شاعل‬ 11
Haima Muscat Airport Bab al Mathayib Street ‫�شارع باب املثاعيب‬ 12
Examples of Other Destinations Qurayyat ‫قريات‬ 13
Ra’s al Khaymah al Ain al Fujayrah al Wutayya ‫الوطية‬ 14
Khor Fakkan Dubai Yemen al Mabaila al Shamaliyya ‫املعبيلة ال�شمالية‬ 15
Table 19.1.1.1 Examples of Primary Destinations for Road signs al Amirat ‫العامرات‬ 16
19.1.1.6 To cater for the high number of foreign nationals working in or visiting Oman, signs should normally be Hay al Irfan ‫حي العرفان‬ 17
in English as well as in Arabic. Translation of Arabic into English should follow the spelling shown in Table 19.1.1.1. Hillat al Niyam ‫حلة النعم‬ 18
Other destinations or words should use spellings derived from the instructions provided in Paragraph 19.1.1.7 Hay al Bayda ‫حي البي�ضاء‬ 19
and supporting tables, subsequent to approval from the Overseeing Authority. Boshar ‫بو�رش‬ 20
al Khuwair al Janubiyya ‫اخلوير اجلنوبية‬ 21
19.1.1.7 In order to create equivalent traffic sign words in conventional alphabetic English that are derived from
al Sultan Qaboos Street ‫�شارع ال�سلطان قابو�س‬ 22
Arabic words used in Oman, a system has been formally developed to do this, based on phonetic principles.
Table 19.1.1.2 Phonetic Translation of Names – Examples
a) These relate the linguistic pronunciation of Arabic names with their sound structure, thus spelling the sound
of the name rather than the translation of the name. This system is mandatory for the creation of new traffic
sign names. In deriving this system, the following principles b) to h) were established:-
b) The selection of a spelling method associated with four foreign languages as samples (USA, Finland, UK,
India) to strengthen the soundness of the system and its intended purposes.

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 Ministry of Transport & Communications . DGRLT

Traffic Signs and Road Markings

‫مثال‬ ‫احلرف الإجنليزي‬ ‫احلرف العربي‬ ‫م‬ Direction Sign, ahead of a junction as an Advance Direction Sign, along a route as a Confirmatory Sign or on an
Shati Street ‫�شارع ال�شاطيء‬ a ‫)ا (حرف املد‬ 1 approach to a destination as a Place Identification Sign. (Figures 19.1.2.10 to 19.1.2.16). Route numbers should be
Ard al Sada Street ‫�شارع �أر�ض ال�سعادة‬ a ‫ �أ‬،‫�آ‬ 2 displayed as indicated on Figures 19.1.2.10 to 19.1.2.12.
al Bustan Roundabout ‫دوار الب�ستان‬ b ‫ب‬ 3
19.1.2.4 Colours are an important aid to understanding directional signs. The road hierarchy or sign function
Jahlut Street ‫�شارع جحلوت‬ t ‫ت‬ 4
determines the colours to be used which are as follows:
Bab al Mathayib Street ‫�شارع باب املثاعيب‬ th ‫ث‬ 5
Bait al Falaj Street ‫�شارع بيت الفلج‬ j ‫ج‬ 6 n National Routes (yellow motif of country) and Arterial Routes (white motif of watchtower)
al Saih Street ‫�شارع ال�سيح‬ h ‫ح‬ 7 Blue background, white border, symbols and legend.
al Khalil Street ‫�شارع اخلليل‬ kh ‫خ‬ 8 (Primary destinations are signed, together with nearby local destinations)

Fuad Street ‫�شارع ف�ؤاد‬ d ‫د‬ 9 n Secondary Routes (white motif of incense burner)
Dhiyab Street ‫�شارع ذياب‬ dh ‫ذ‬ 10 Green background, white border, symbols and legend.
al Ramla Street ‫�شارع الرملة‬ r ‫ر‬ 11 (these signs include largely local destinations where appropriate)
al Zabadiyya Street ‫�شارع الزبادية‬ z ‫ز‬ 12
n Distributor Routes and Access Routes
al Sad Street ‫�شارع ال�سد‬ s ‫�س‬ 13
White background, black border, symbols and legend.
al Inshirah Street ‫�شارع الإن�رشاح‬ sh ‫�ش‬ 14
(these signs include largely local destinations where appropriate)
al Ansab Street ‫�شارع الأن�صب‬ s ‫�ص‬ 15
al Diyafa Street ‫�شارع ال�ضيافة‬ d ‫�ض‬ 16 n Public and private facilities (e.g. hotels, parks)
al Tarif Street ‫�شارع الطريف‬ t ‫ط‬ 17 (White) background, (black) border, symbols and legend.
al Dhafra Street ‫�شارع الظفرة‬ dh ‫ظ‬ 18 n Tourist attractions
Ard al Sada Street ‫�شارع �أر�ض ال�سعادة‬ ‫ت�سقط يف الغالب �إال يف بع�ض احلاالت‬ Brown background, white border, symbols and legend.
‫ع‬ 19
Jamiya Street ‫�شارع اجلامعة‬ y ‫ي�ستخدم حرف‬
(These signs may be used on all classes of route)
Table 19.1.1.3 Examples of Phonetic Translation of Sounds into English for Particular Arabic Scripts
n Traffic diversions (for all route classifcations)
19.1.1.8 Although the needs of the road user are very important, care should be taken that signs are not Red background, white border, symbols and legend. Triangular warning signs used in temporary
environmentally intrusive. Signs should not be larger than necessary to make them conspicuous and legible and road works situations may have a yellow background.
only the minimum number of signs should be provided to achieve functional performance.
n Pedestrian routes
19.1.1.9 Advertisements or unauthorised signs can distract drivers and potentially reduce road safety. For this Blue background, white border, symbols and legend.
reason permanent or temporary advertising hoardings are not generally permitted within the right of way, and (These incorporate the symbol of a walking man)
unauthorised signs should be removed. Signs other than traffic signs described in this Standard may only be
placed within the right of way with the approval of the Overseeing Authority.
19.1.2.5 The basic destination hierarchy to be followed is:
Strategic destinations (e.g. major areas and towns) are signed on National Routes and Arterial Routes
n
19.1.1.10 The signing information given in this Section applies to all types of roads within the Sultanate irrespective
Local destinations are signed off National Routes and Arterial Routes as the destinations are
n
of surfacing types, thus including for track and gravel roads as well as paved roads.
approached
Local destinations (and strategic destinations if appropriate) are signed on Secondary Routes,
n
19.1.2 Upright Signs
Distributor Routes and Access Routes.
19.1.2.1 Warning Signs give warning of a hazard ahead. Permanent signs are triangular, having a black symbol
19.1.2.6 Informative signs: these give additional driver information and are usually rectangular. These signs are
within a red border on a white background. (Figures 19.1.2.1 to 19.1.2.3) The exception to this rule is for special
generally white on a blue background with the exception of the Bus Stop sign (Sign 312) which has a green background
signs indicating bends, (Sign Number 101, 102, 103 and 104) which have a yellow background. Temporary warning
and Kilometer post (Sign 323) which has black text and border on a white background. (Figure 19.1.2.7)
signs are also triangular, having a black symbol within a red border, but with a yellow background. Certain
temporary signs are rectangular, with white lettering on a red background (Figure 19.1.2.8). Supplementary 19.1.2.7 The background for permanent chevron signs (151 and 152) are to be yellow in color with black chevrons,
(rectangular planes giving further information) can be used with some warning signs (Figure 19.1.2.8). and for temporary chevrons at road works, (signs 404 and 405) and for detour signs (401 and 402) the back ground
will be black, with yellow chevrons/wording.
19.1.2.2 Regulatory Signs impose restrictions or prohibitions on the speed, movement and waiting times of
vehicles (Figures 19.1.2.4 to 19.1.2.6). They are mainly circular with a red border for ‘do not’ or with a blue
19.1.3 Design of Upright Signs
background for ’’do’’. Exceptions are the ’Stop’ sign (octagonal) and the ’Give Way’ sign (inverted triangle).
Supplementary (rectangular) plates may also be used to give additional information. 19.1.3.1 The design of directional sign faces and other worded signs should follow the principles outlined
in Figures 19.1.2.10 to 19.1.2.13. Arabic legend should always be above the English equivalent. The general
19.1.2.3 Directional Signs are used to guide drivers to their destination. These may be located at a junction as a
arrangement of Arabic and English words is shown in Figure 19.1.2.11
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 Sultanate of Oman. Highway Design Standards 2010

Traffic Signs and Road Markings

19
Upper case letters Lower case letters Numbers and punctuation, etc Minimum Clear
Speed limit Typical Siting ‘x’ height
Type of Sign Alef Height (mm) Visibility to
Transport Transport Numbers Transport (km/h) Route Type Distance (m) (mm)
Letter Transport Heavy Letter Transport Heavy Transport Heavy Sign (m)
Medium Medium & Marks Medium
Tile Tile Tile Tile Tile Tile Advance Direction Sign 45 180 100 60
H1 H2 H1 H2 H1 H2 H1 H2 H1 H2 H1 H2
Width Width Width Width Width Width 50 or less Access Direction Sign - 135 75 45
A 7 7 136 6 5 142 a 8 13 111 7 5 111 1 10 21 79 9 23 84 Confirmatory Sign - 135 75 45
B 25 17 147 23 13 146 b 15 10 117 13 9 122 2 12 15 120 6 14 125 Advance Direction Sign 90 225 125 75
C 12 11 148 12 10 151 c 7 9 103 7 7 107 3 11 17 127 10 18 136 60 Distributor Direction Sign - 180 100 60
D 25 14 154 23 11 150 d 8 19 119 6 14 119 4 5 9 132 3 12 138 Confirmatory Sign - 180 100 60
E 25 15 132 23 16 136 e 8 10 109 8 9 110 5 12 11 122 15 12 130 Advance Direction Sign 150 270 150 105
F 25 6 119 23 7 121 f 6 6 75 5 4 79 6 12 12 126 12 13 129 80 Secondary Direction Sign - 225 125 75
G 12 19 155 12 23 156 g 8 19 114 8 15 117 7 3 5 104 4 5 107 Confirmatory Sign - 225 125 75
H 25 25 160 23 22 159 h 12 15 112 12 15 119 8 15 15 130 19 14 138 Advance Direction Sign 225 360 200 135
I 25 24 73 23 21 73 i 12 19 54 12 15 55 9 15 12 128 14 13 129 100 Arterial Direction Sign - 270 150 105
J 3 21 93 4 3 95 j 3 19 58 3 16 71 0 12 12 133 12 14 145 Confirmatory Sign - 270 150 105
K 25 6 138 23 3 138 k 12 5 108 12 3 114 Advance Direction Sign 1km & 2km 540 300 180
L 25 3 107 23 5 118 l 13 3 62 12 4 63 - 7 15 66 11 17 71 120 National Direction Sign - 450 250 135
M 25 24 184 23 22 186 m 12 18 164 12 16 173 . 10 16 53 12 12 56 Confirmatory Sign - 450 250 135
N 25 24 168 23 23 168 n 15 15 112 12 15 119 ‘ 7 5 39 7 4 41 Pedestrian 90 50 Not applicable
O 12 10 156 12 12 158 o 8 12 118 7 12 115 ( 12 24 105 10 32 115 Table 19.1.3.2 Lettering Sizes for Direction Signs
P 25 9 130 23 7 134 p 12 13 118 11 9 120 ) 24 12 105 32 10 115 Note 1 The ‘x’ height for each sign type may be reduced (and associated ‘Alef’ height reduced in proportion) in increments of
Q 12 12 158 12 12 161 q 13 12 118 10 11 120 , 7 31 65 10 28 68
25mm (for vehicular signs) or 10mm (for pedestrian signs) where space is restricted or in environmentally sensitive locations

R 25 12 141 23 13 148 r 15 12 73 12 13 85 % 12 21 160 15 17 160 adopted. The smaller size may be used in environmentally sensitive areas or where space within the right of
S 12 19 137 8 13 146 s 4 12 97 2 9 100 & 10 5 126 8 6 126 way is insufficient to fit in larger sign. Reference 3 (the UK Traffic Signs Manual) gives further information on the
«space design of signs and signing generally.
109 118
T 4 3(-7) 5 5(-7) t 6 9 81 6 5 84 between - - 62 - - 62
(98) (113)
words»
19.1.3.5 Character size is based on the speed limit of the road and not the design speed or 85 percentile speed.
U 23 21 154 20 21 157 u 14 19 115 13 16 120
This is to ensure that signs are conspicuous and legible and are appropriate for the maximum speed at which
130 133
V 8 9(-8) 6 7(-6) v 3 5 98 3 4 107 drivers should be travelling.
(113) (127)
183 193 19.1.3.6 The size and siting of triangular warning signs should be as shown in Table 19.1.3.3. Warning signs
W 12 5 12 5 w 5 8 147 3 7 160
(189) (200)
should only be used to warn of a hazard which drivers may not reasonably anticipate.
X 5 3 128 3 2 130 x 3 6 104 3 6 110
123 128 Speed Limit Height of Triangular Desirable Distance to Clear Visibility Distance to
Y 4 5(-7) 3 3(-7) y 2 5 98 2 5 106 Typical Route Type
(111) (125) (km/h) Warning Sign (mm) Hazard (m) Sign (m)
Z 10 14 119 8 12 119 z 7 10 97 5 8 93 50 or less Access 600 50 60
When upper case letters T, V and Y are followed by lower case letters a, e, g, o, r or u the letters are brought closer together using the narrower tile width 60 Distributor 750 75 60
When the upper case W is followed by upper case letters T, V, X. Y or Z the letters are separated by using the wider tile width for W 80 Secondary 900 150 75
Table 19.1.3.1 Tile Widths and Clearances for English Letters 100 Arterial 1200 200 90
120 National 1500 300 125
19.1.3.2 Arabic legend should be Advertiser’s Naskh Medium. The size of these characters is expressed in terms
Table 19.1.3.3 Size and siting of Triangular Warning Signs
of ‘’Alef’’ height.
19.1.3.7 Junction warning signs should be used on rural roads where Advance Direction Signs are not appropriate,
19.1.3.3 Characters for English script are of individual widths expressed as a percentage of the x-height
but are not normally appropriate for central urban areas.
(Table19.1.3.1). The script for English legends should be ‘Transport Heavy’ for black characters and ’Transport
Medium’ for white characters. The size of these characters is expressed in terms of the ‘’x’’ height. The proportion 19.1.3.8 Countdown markers should be used on high speed roads (major routes) at approaches to junctions or
and form of letters, numerals and other characters should conform with Schedule 13 of the UK Traffic Signs roundabouts. (Figure 19.1.2.2)
Regulations and General Directions (see Reference 2)
19.1.3.9 The size and visibility distance for ‘Stop’ and ‘Give Way’ signs are shown in Table 19.1.3.4. At priority
19.1.3.4 For directional signs, the relationship between the two scripts and the speed limit of the road is shown junctions Give Way signs should be used when the visibility from the minor road is more than that given in Table
in Table 19.1.3.2. Where more than one size is permitted for a speed limit, the larger size should normally be 19.1.3.4
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 Ministry of Transport & Communications . DGRLT

Traffic Signs and Road Markings

Height of Stop Sign Height of Give Way Clear Visibility Distance to 19.1.4.4 The back of signs should be painted gray. In urban areas where pedestrians are expected, the full
Speed Limit (km/h) Typical Route Type
(mm) Triangle (m) Sign (m) heights of posts in the sidewalk should be painted with alternating white and black stripes, 300m long. Elsewhere
50 or less Access 750 750 60 posts should not be painted.
60 Distributor 900 750 75
19.1.4.5 The dimensions for signs, shown on Figures 19.1.2.1 to 19.1.2.6, are for 750mm size (diameter, or height
80 Secondary 1200 900 90
of triangle, or height of stop sign). Dimensions for other sizes of signs should be adjusted pro-rata.
100 Arterial n/a n/a n/a
120 National n/a n/a n/a 19.1.4.6 Upright signs incorporating any type of flashing or fixed beacon shall be approved by the Overseeing
Table 19.1.3.4 Size and Siting of Stop and Give-Way Signs. Authority.

19.1.3.10 The minimum visibility below which a ‘stop’ sign should be provided is given in Table 19.1.3.5. ‘Stop’ 19.1.4.7 Upright signs capable of displaying a variable message, legend or symbol shall be approved by the
signs should only be considered where visibility is so severely restricted that it is essential for drivers to stop Overseeing Authority.
before entering the main road. Factors that should be also taken into account when considering the use of a
‘Stop’ sign are: 19.1.4.8 Signs under normal circumstances will not be lit. High intensity retro-reflective sheeting of the type as
described in the Specification should be used for all signfaces except:
n Traffic volumes on both minor and major roads
n Gradient on the minor road n For any black areas of signs

n The accident record n For signs for use by pedestrians (e.g. in subways or for pedestrian routes)

n Any other factors which give unusual difficulty at a junction. In the above situations, plain non-reflective sheeting should be used.

The need for ‘Stop’ signs should be exceptional as all new junctions, should be constructed with adequate sight 19.1.4.9 Where conditions require, the external illumination of chevron signs can be considered, powered from
lines. permanent electricity supply or from solar power as appropriate.
Speed Limit (km/h) 120 100 80 70 60 50
Visibility Distance from Center Line of Minor Road at 19.1.5 Erection of Upright Signs
120 90 70 50 40 30
3m Back from Edge of Major Road
Table 19.1.3.5 Minimum Visibility below which a Stop Sign should be Provided 19.1.5.1 All sign types should be erected so that the lower edge of the sign is approximately 1.5m above finished
ground level. In urban areas where the sign is over a sidewalk, this should be increased to a minimum of 2.1m,
19.1.3.11 The size and clear visibility distances for circular signs should be as shown in Table 19.1.3.6 with a preferred clearance of 2.3m.
Speed Limit (km/h) Typical Route Type Diameter of Circular Sign (mm) Clear Visibility Distance to Sign (m)
50 or less Access 600 60
60 Distributor 750 60
80 Secondary 750 75
100 Arterial 900 90
120 National 1200 120
Table 19.1.3.6 Size and Siting of Circular Regulatory Signs

19.1.4 Construction of Upright Signs (Including Temporary Traffic Management Signs)

19.1.4.1 Traffic signs should be constructed from alloy-aluminium sheet. Aluminium posts should be used for
smaller signs in corrosion prone areas, and structural hollow section steel posts either rectangular or circular
for larger signs. Steel gantries will be appropriate for large lane-type overhead signs. Other materials may be
used for short life temporary signs where permitted by the Specification. Sign posts, centilever structures, gantry
structures and foundations should be designed to carry the structural load appropriate for the location and ground
conditions. For traffic signs having more than one post, the foundations shall be designed and constructed as a
continuous unit

19.1.4.2 Wherever possible, horizontal joints in sign faces should be avoided because of sand build up in the
joints detracting from the visual impact of the sign.

19.1.4.3 Steel posts and gantry structures should be galvanised and care taken to ensure that the aluminium
sign is electrically isolated from the steel to avoid galvanic corrosion. Fixings attaching the sign to the post should
be stainless steel.

19-4 Figure 19.1.5.1 Back of Sign Fixing and Foundation Detail

 Sultanate of Oman. Highway Design Standards 2010

19.1.5.2 Normally, not more than two warning or regulatory signs facing in one direction should be mounted n
Traffic Signs and Road Markings

The speed limit is at or above 100km/h on the approach road.

19
on the same support; but one of the signs may also have a supplementary plate. Where a triangular sign is used Spacing of the bars is given in Table 19.2.1.1.
with a circular or rectangular sign, the triangular sign should be at the top.
19.2.1.9 On slip roads of limited length only markings B1 to B56 should be used. It would also be appropriate
19.1.5.3 Where two hazard warning signs are erected together, the sign warning of the hazard that will be to use only markings B1 to B56 on single carriageway approaches or where the speed limit is only 80km/h. The
encountered first should be placed at the top. use of the lower speed markings should be kept to a minimum and only used where there is a specific safety
problem. If the approach road is a two-way single carriageway, the markings must not extend past the center line
19.1.5.4 The space between signs, or between a sign and a supplementary plate, should be 50mm.
of the carriageway. In such cases, consideration can be given to the provision of a localized curbed median in
19.1.5.5 ‘Stop’, ‘Give Way’ and ‘Speed Limit’ signs must be mounted alone. the region of the bar markings in order to enhance safety. In particularly problematic situations, the transverse
bar markings could be staggered and combined with rumble strips to increase driver awareness on approaches
19.1.6 Advertisement Boards to roundabouts for instance. Such hybrid solutions should be designed on an individual site by site basis, duly
accounting for all physical, environmental and traffic conditions.
19.1.6.1 Advertisement boards must not be placed on the approaches to junctions or in any location that may
detract from the impact of permanent traffic signage. Advertisement signs may be lit. 19.2.1.10 Transverse yellow bar markings may also be considered on National Route approaches to towns/villages
where vehicles have become accustomed to travelling at high speed and there is a need for them to slow down.

19.2 ROAD MARKINGS Bar No Distance from bar B1 (m) Bar No Distance from bar B1 (m) Bar No Distance from bar B1 (m)
B1 0.00 B31 94.95 B61 224.70
19.2.1 General B2 2.75 B32 98.65 B62 229.80
B3 5.50 B33 102.40 B63 234.90
19.2.1.1 Road markings can be used to give a warning, a requirement or information.They can be used to supplement
B4 8.25 B34 106.15 B64 240.10
upright signs where upright signs alone do not convey the required message adequately, or alone where upright signs
B5 11.05 B35 110.00 B65 245.40
are not appropriate. White or yellow road markings should consist of thermoplastic material or methyl methacrylate
B6 13.90 B36 113.85 B66 250.70
resin paint incorporating ballotini (light reflecting spheres), which assists definition for night time driving.
B7 16.80 B37 117.75 B67 256.10

19.2.1.2 Road markings are shown on Figures 19.2.1.1 to 19.2.1.5. B8 19.70 B38 121.70 B68 261.50
B9 22.60 B39 125.65 B69 267.00
19.2.1.3 Road markings may be used alone as edge markings, lane markings, yellow bar markings, box junction B10 25.55 B40 129.70 B70 272.60
markings, to create traffic islands or to supplement or emphasise the meaning of upright signs B11 28.55 B41 133.75 B71 278.20
B12 31.60 B42 137.85 B72 283.90
19.2.1.4 Metal road studs, incorporating reflective inserts, should be used in conjunction with lane or edge markings
B13 34.65 B43 142.00 B73 289.60
on National or Arterial Routes in areas which are unlit. White reflectors should be used on lane lines, and yellow
B14 37.70 B44 146.15 B74 295.45
reflectors should be used to denote the edge of carriageway.Two way reflectors should be used on dual carriageways
B15 40.80 B45 150.40 B75 301.30
as well as single carriageways, to allow use of one half of the dual carriageway for two-way traffic during road works.
B16 43.95 B46 154.65 B76 307.25
Plastic studs should not be used on National Routes, Arterial Routes or on roads where the speed limit is more than
B17 47.15 B47 158.95 B77 313.30
60km/h; but may be considered for use on other roads and in temporary road works where speeds are low.
B18 50.35 B48 163.35 B78 319.35
19.2.1.5 Metal studs should not rely on adhesion alone but should include an integral plug inserted at least B19 53.55 B49 167.75 B79 325.55
60mm into the surfacing. B20 56.80 B50 172.25 B80 331.75
B21 60.10 B51 176.75 B81 338.15
19.2.1.6 Metal or plastic studs should not be used on aggregate/ surface sealed roads.
B22 63.45 B52 181.30 B82 344.65
19.2.1.7 Intelligent, active and solar powered road studs for specialised applications, shall be approved by the B23 66.80 B53 185.95 B83 351.35
Overseeing Authority. B24 70.15 B54 190.60 B84 358.30
B25 73.60 B55 195.35 B85 365.50
19.2.1.8 Figure 19.2.1.4 shows transverse yellow bar markings, which can improve road safety if laid on the B26 77.05 B56 200.10 B86 373.20
approach to roundabouts (including slip road approaches). However, these markings should not be used too often
B27 80.55 B57 204.90 B87 380.90
as drivers may start to ignore them. Yellow bar markings should therefore not be used freely as a standard design
B28 84.10 B58 209.80 B88 388.60
option and only applied in special cases where conditions dictate. Consequently, they should only be used where
B29 87.65 B59 214.70 B89 396.25
the following criteria apply:
B30 91.30 B60 219.70 B90 403.95
The carriageway is a one way approach to a roundabout (e.g. dual carriageway).
n Table 19.2.1.1 Spacing of Transverse Bar Markings
The road has no major intersections for 3 km in advance of the roundabout.
n Note: Bars B1 to B56 to be used for Slip Road approaches
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19.2.1.11 The double white line system (Figure 19.2.1.2) should be used at locations where overtaking is prohibited be used at staggered junctions, provided the box length does not exceed 30m (Alternatively two half
because forward visibility is restricted. A double white line system should not be used where visibility is adequate boxes may be suitable)
but where there are hazards needing additional driver caution. (e.g. floodways where warning signs should be used) Normally there should be at least 2 lanes on each major road approach.
n

The effectiveness of box markings is reduced at junctions with a high proportion of left turning traffic.
n
19.2.1.12 Provision of continuous white lines or warning lines should be as set out in Table 19.2.1.2. The visibility
Half boxes (where only half the area of the junction is marked) are appropriate at T-junctions and
n
distance should be measured along the centerline of the road from an eye height of 1.05m to an object height
other junctions where traffic only blocks back from one direction.
of 1.05m. Sign 224 should be erected on the right hand verge at the start of the continuous line, and Sign 231 at
the end.
19.2.3 Ceramic Buttons
Speed Limit (km/h) 60 or less 70 80 100 120
Provide broken warning lines (L1) when visibility is: >145m >175m >200m >250m >300m 19.2.3.1 The use of white or yellow ceramic buttons to replace or enhance road markings should be used in
Provide broken warning lines (L2) when visibility is: 90 – 145m 105 – 175m 120 - 200m 155 – 250m 185 – 300m extreme cases only. Their raised nature and low skid resistance may create a hazard, particularly for 2-wheeled
Provide solid line (L2A) (No overtaking) when vehicles.
<90m <105m <120m <155m <185m
visibility is:
between continuous line and tip
Spacing of of first arrow
15m 20m 25m 30m 35m 19.2.4 Flashing Beacons
deflecting arrows
between tip of first arrow and
type S8/R 30m 40m 50m 60m 70m 19.2.4.1 Flashing beacons to give warning of hazards (e.g. road works, broken down vehicles, slow moving,
tip of second arrow
wide or long loads) should be orange. Police, fire, ambulance and other government vehicles use red or blue
Table 19.2.1.2 Center Line Markings
flashing beacons.
19.2.1.13 If additional warning is required at the approach to a continuous white line or to a continuous yellow
line at central cross hatched areas or islands (Figure 19.2.1.3), then one or two warning deflecting arrows type 19.2.5 Traffic Cones, Cylinders and Plastic Safety Barriers
S8/R (Figure 19.2.1.5) can be placed in advance of the continuous line at the spacing shown in Table 19.2.1.2. The
centerline marking should be omitted for 8m to enhance the conspicuity of the arrow. 19.2.5.1 Traffic cones or cylinders (red with a retro-reflective white band) or plastic safety barriers (alternate red
and white) should be used to define routes around obstructions or road works. Painted oil drums or other devices
19.2.1.14 Double white lines should not usually be used on Distributor or Access Routes, particularly in urban not approved by the Overseeing Authority must not be used.
areas.

19.2.1.15 Deflection, Lane Selection and Turn Arrows are shown as lane arrows in Figure 19.2.1.5. They should not 19.3 REFERENCES
be confused. Deflecting arrows indicate that drivers in that lane must move to the lane to which the deflection
arrow is pointing. Lane selection arrows indicate a bifurcation of the lane ahead which can be to the left or right 1 GCC Manual - Uniform Traffic Control.
for such movements as exiting a mainline. Lane marker arrows (straight and turn arrows) indicate what the 2 The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002 (UK Department for Transport)
expected movement of the vehicle will be in that lane at a junction ahead. 3 Traffic Signs Manual (UK Department for Transport)
Chapter 1 Introduction 1982
19.2.2 Box Markings For Junctions Chapter 3 Regulatory Signs 2008
Chapter 4 Warning Signs 2004
19.2.2.1 At a box junction, the carriageway is marked with yellow lines to form a box enclosing yellow cross
hatched diagonal lines (see Figure 19.2.1.4). Drivers, whose vehicles enter the hatched area when other stationary Chapter 5 Road Markings 2003
vehicles are preventing them from leaving it, are committing an offence. It is not an offence when drivers are Chapter 7 The Design of Traffic Signs 2003
queuing to turn left, and are only prevented from completing the left turn by moving traffic or by other traffic also Chapter 8 Traffic Safety Measures for Road Works & Temporary Situations 2006
waiting to turn left. However, it is an offence to remain stationery in the box when trying to turn left, if the exit in 4 Local Transport Note LTN 1/94 (UK Department for Transport)
that direction is blocked. (The Design and Use of Directional Informatory Signs 1994)

19.2.2.2 Experience has shown that these markings can improve traffic flows where there had previously been
delays due to vehicles blocking back across the junction and impeding the cross flow.

19.2.2.3 The following factors should be studied when considering the use of box markings:
The junction should be controlled by signals
n

Blocking back from a junction ahead occurs

n

Entrance to and exists from the junction should normally be opposite each other. The markings may
n

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Figure 19.1.2.1 Warning Signs (1 of 3)

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Figure 19.1.2.2 Warning Signs (2 of 3)

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Figure 19.1.2.3 Warning Sizes (3 of 3)

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Figure 19.1.2.4 Regulatory Signs (1 of 3)

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Figure 19.1.2.5 Regulatory Signs (2 of 3)

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Figure 19.1.2.6 Regulatory Signs (3 of 3)

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Figure 19.1.2.7 Informative Signs

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Figure 19.1.2.8 Supplementary Plates

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Figure 19.1.2.9 Temporary Signs and Signs at Roadworks

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Figure 19.1.2.10 Directional Signs (1 of 6) - National & Arterial Routes

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Figure 19.1.2.11 Directional Signs (2 of 6) - National & Arterial Routes

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Figure 19.1.2.12 Directional Signs (3 of 6) - Secondary Routes

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Figure 19.1.2.13 Directional Signs (4 of 6) - Distributor and Access Routes

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Figure 19.1.2.14 Directional Signs (5 of 6) - Use of Background Color for Stack Type Signs
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Figure 19.1.2.15 Directional Signs (6 of 6) - Use of Background Color for Map Type Signs
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Figure 19.1.2.16 Directional/Informative Signs for Public and Private Facilities

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Figure 19.1.2.17 Location and Size Distance Markers and Object Markers
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2. Further details of water depth markers shown in GD 12-05.

Figure 19.1.2.18 Marker Posts and Delineator Posts

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Figure 19.1.2.19 Typical Sign Layout at Priority Junctions

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Figure 19.1.2.20 Typical Sign Layout at Roundabouts

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Figure 19.1.2.21 Typical Sign Layouts for Interchanges (1 of 2)

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Figure 19.1.2.22 Typical Sign Layouts for Interchanges (2 of 2)

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Figure 19.2.1.1 Road Markings (1 of 5) - Longitudinal Markings

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Figure 19.2.1.2 Road Markings (2 of 5) Longitudinal Markings

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Figure 19.2.1.3 Road Markings (3 of 5) - At T-Junctions and Ramp Gore Areas

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Figure 19.2.1.4 Road Markings (4 of 5) - Roundabouts and Junction Box Markings

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Figure 19.2.1.5 Road Markings (5 of 5) - Pedestrian Crossing and Lane Arrows

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