The importance of line markings

New research by ARRB has underlined the importance of harmonising road markings across Australia. The research appears in a new Austroads report which documents a project to develop national performance specification/criteria for pavement markings.

Line marking practice varies between agencies, and some do not comply with the Australian Standard. Material specifications also differ between jurisdictions, as does guidance on the replacement or remarking of pavement markings.  This may contribute to higher agency costs and inconsistent service delivery to road users.

The report, authored by Georgia O'Connor, Caroline Evans (Project Manager) and Peter Cairney (Quality Manager) of ARRB, investigated:

• Longitudinal and transverse line marking types and widths and other pavement markings used by different road agencies (States and Territories) with the aim of harmonising them as far as practical
• Road agency pavement marking specifications in order to develop a national performance specification for pavement markings.

The process followed in the project was to collate current practice in different jurisdictions, review literature developed overseas, and considers agency and industry proposals for revised specifications.  This was followed up by consultation with individual agencies and key industry stakeholders.

“Pavement markings are essential for the comfortable, safe and efficient operation of Australia’s road network," said Ms O'Connor and Mrs Evans. "Good markings are greatly appreciated by road users. Harmonising these markings has been on the agenda for the Austroads Road Authority Pavement Markings Group and agreement has been achieved through close collaboration with Roads Australia with input from other industry representatives such as RIAA and 3M. This wide consultation has ensured that the recommendations for practice meet agency and industry requirements in terms of harmonised longitudinal line widths and national specifications, and we look forward to more consistent line marking provision and greater efficiencies as a result." 

Read more here.

Download the report here.