10 Common TM Mistakes
10 Common Event Traffic Management Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) This short guide is designed to help event managers understand key compliance risks in temporary traffic management (TTM). Based on real-world experience and aligned with UK regulations, it highlights what often goes wrong — and how to put it right.
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Missing Approach Signing - Road Works Ahead
The “Road Works Ahead” (TSRGD: 7001) sign is legally required on every approach to a work zone or road closure.
It’s often missing — but without it, your signage setup is incomplete and non-compliant. Placement distance depends on road speed.
Road Works ahead (TSRGD: 7001) MUST be displayed on every approach to a worksite, including road closures. The distance from the start of works differs depending on the road for example on a 30mph single carriageway it should be 20-45m from the first cone of the works, whereas on a 60mph single carriageway it must be 275-450m away, minimum visibility of the sign also increases from 60m to 75m.
Summary: Events often skip mandatory advance signage, especially Road Works Ahead signs (TSRGD 7001).
Why This Matters: This is a critical 'insurance sign' and must be the first out, last in. Placement distances vary based on road type/speed. Without it, your TM setup is incomplete and non-compliant.
Key Regulations:
TSRGD 7001: Required on every approach to a closure or works
Chapter 8: Placement distances (e.g. 20–45m at 30mph, 275–450m at 60mph)
Common Issues:
Missed due to oversight or lack of training
Placed too close to site entrance
What You Should Do:
Measure correct placement distances
Include 7001 on all approaches, even internal TM setups affecting public roads
Use event access signage during build/break to direct traffic via approved routes, and warn road users of slow-moving vehicles turning or accessing narrow gateways.
Event TM Recommends:
Full TM plan drafting with correct approach and access signage
Site setup audits for build/break and show periods