How Road Safety Audit England Is Conducted

By Paul Wilson


Keeping a road safe requires constant audit at design phase, construction and usage. When assessments are done at all these stages, there is a guarantee that set standards will be met. Road safety audit England takes place in 4 stages. Comprehensive evaluation should take place at every stage so that faults are detected and remedial measures taken to avoid piling up.

At Stage 1, there is deeper evaluation of the design. This is done by experts who understand engineering and requirements in construction of roads. When the design is right, construction will meet the standards and be safe for users. If mistakes abound on the design phase, the complete project will also be troublesome. Experts will recommend modifications that could be driven by spotted mistakes or the need to achieve efficiency.

There are several factors that receive attention at this stage. Drainage quality is evaluated alongside the safety of other users beyond drivers. Visibility is considered alongside alignment and whether proper provisions have been made for cyclists and passengers. Lighting columns and marking on the highway are will also be assessed during stage 1.

There is greater assessment of design in stage 2. The experts are interested in features that enhance the usability of a motorway. Some of the issues of concern include overall lighting, junctions and markings on carriageway. Assessment at this level is done by the entire team. This allows them to discuss concerns and make recommendations on modifications to be made. The constructors are required to provide details of intended actions and take modifications made.

Stage three takes place when improvement designs have been substantially made. In fact, at this stage, the highway is usually open to users. It is easier to assess some of the vital areas. Assessment takes place during the day and at night so that hazards can be identified in their exact nature. The maintaining agent is present alongside police and local authorities.

Some of the elements assessed during stage three are accuracy of implementation of the design, unforeseen dangers and safety loopholes that were heralded by the design. In case there were changes in original design, the team will assess the impact it has on usage. Alignments made at local level are also points of interest alongside provision for non-motorized users and junctions. Signage, marking on carriage ways and lighting are also points of concern.

Stage 4 involves continuous monitoring. It should take place during the first year of handover of the project. It targets the accidents that are taking place, their causes and vehicles or people involved. Such information will say a lot about areas that could have been overlooked during design. Modifications can be made despite the fact that the project has been handed over. It is police and local authorities that provide details on location of accidents, people involved and their nature.

It is important to deal with professionals during this exercise. Their input helps you to make the right and broad viewed decision. Experienced professionals understand how roads are constructed. They will ensure that you get excellent value for money on your project and have a safe road in perpetuity.




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