Guidance Bulletin 23

What No Barriers? The Removal of Barriers during Backfill or Reinstatement

It has become common practice that barriers and signs are removed from around excavations while backfill or reinstatement works are undertaken. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE and is an offence under Section 65 of NRSWA 1991. Often the public still have a right of way along footways during these works and could encounter plant, materials or grab operations which place them in danger. Barriers and signs must remain in place during all operations and consideration must be given to pedestrians and other road users.

The following points should be considered at all times during reinstatement operations: -

It is far more important to protect the works (which are likely to contain operatives, machinery, and an excavation) than it is to protect a signal head. When designing a portable traffic signalled works the RN must indicate the side of the works UNLESS your site-specific risk assessment deems that any advance incursion requires a RN in which case you must detail why this is the case.

• DO conduct a site-specific risk assessment before commencing works.
• DO check and recheck your TM drawing before making an application as incorrect applications will be returned.
• DO check with your supervisor, manager or other competent person if you are not sure where to place the RN.
• DO check your site when you arrive to ensure the correct RN and plate is used.
• DO always check the Red Book to make sure your site is compliant if in doubt ALWAYS ask.
• DON’T use a RN to indicate a traffic light head unless you have a complete lane build out for the lights.
• DON’T assume always ask if you are in any doubt that your site is correctly signed.

HAUC(UK) thanks Morrison Water Services in their help in the creation of this guidance.

IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT, CONTACT YOUR SUPERVISOR FOR FURTHER ADVICE

DO HIGHWAYS THE RIGHTWAYS