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.
7
Use of Non-Prescribed Signs
All road signs used must be approved by the TSRGD or have specific DfT authorisation.
Homemade, mislabelled, or misused signs can invalidate your entire TM setup and expose organisers to enforcement action.
The "Traffic Sign General Regulations & Directions 2016" has every sign permitted for use on the UK roads contained in it, it is classed as one of the TM bibles. Along with Chapter 7 of the Traffic sign Manual, these make the basis for designing signs. Any sign not covered in these books must have special authorisation from the Department for Transport.
TSGRD Schedule 13, Part 9 gives provisions for unprescribed temporary signs.
Traffic Advisory Leaflet 01/14 & 04/11 cover Temporary red on white signs at works & temporary signs for events, however, these have been superseded by TSRGD 13 part 9. The information is useful as it is lay out in an easy-to-understand way. Some of it has been updated in TSGRD 2016, and so both should be used in conjunction, where a conflict appears TSGRD takes precedent.
Summary: Any sign not listed in TSRGD or authorised by DfT is illegal on UK roads.
Why This Matters: Custom signs without authorisation can invalidate your entire setup and expose you to enforcement or liability.
Key Regulations:
TSRGD Schedule 13, Part 9
TAL 01/14 and 04/11 (as guidance)
Common Issues:
Homemade signs used without approval
Mismatched fonts, colours, or icons
What You Should Do:
Stick to TSRGD-compliant signage or get DfT approval
Use Chapter 7 for design specifications
Event TM Recommends:
In-house sign design and production
Compliant signage audits