Traffic Management RAMS Guide for UK Contractors

Key Topics in a Traffic Management RAMS

Chapter 8 compliance

Traffic management on public highways must comply with Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual (TSM), which sets out layouts, signing distances, and equipment standards for roadworks in the UK. The RAMS must reference the applicable Chapter 8 layout, confirm that traffic management designers and operatives hold relevant LANTRA (or equivalent) accreditation (such as NHSS 12A/B/D qualifications), and confirm that the layout was approved by the highway authority before implementation.

Road space booking and S278/S50 licences

Works on or adjacent to public highways typically require a road space booking with the Traffic Management Act 2004 Street Works Register, and may require a Section 278 agreement (for highway improvements) or Section 50 licence (for excavation in the highway). The RAMS must confirm that all required consents and licences are in place before works commence and that the notification is made within the statutory timescales.

Working near live traffic

Working in or adjacent to live traffic lanes is one of the highest-risk activities in construction. The RAMS must describe the traffic speed at the site, the separation between operatives and live traffic (buffer zone and hard barrier or safety fence), the correct high-visibility PPE standard (EN ISO 20471 Class 3 minimum for live carriageway working), and the stop-work trigger if the traffic management layout is compromised or vehicle incursion occurs.

Pedestrian management and safe routes

Where footways are affected by traffic management, an alternative safe pedestrian route must be provided and signed. The RAMS must describe the pedestrian diversion route, footway crossing points with dropped kerbs and tactile paving if required, and lighting for night operations. Vulnerable road users (wheelchair users, visually impaired) must be specifically considered in the safe route design.