2.3Location#

Traffic Controllers (TCs) operating PTCDs must do so from a safe location, and as such, the department encourages practitioners to adopt the following recommendations. The key considerations in determining a safe location for TCs include site geometry, traffic control device position, sight distance, roadside terrain / vegetation, the type of PTCD used, vehicle mix and their approach speeds. Environmental factors (for example, fog, rain, dust or smoke) and time of day/night also need to be considered. TCs should occupy a position which: is clear of the travel path (the risk of being struck by passing vehicles is significantly reduced as the offset distance is increased); has an escape path; has sight distance from the traffic control station, and also the location the TC will be occupying during PTCD operation, to approaching traffic; aims to ensure that drivers focus on the PTCD, and not take cues directly from the TC.

• enables effective communication to both site workers and other TC (if applicable). If a single TC is operating two PTCDs, an added consideration is to ensure the operating range of the hand-held remote controller is not exceeded.
• enables the TC to identify the last vehicle before changing to STOP.
• is close enough to the PTCD to allow the TC to commence STOP / SLOW bat duties in the event of a system failure. In the case of a single TC operating two PTCDs, the TC should be located at the end which is on approach to the closed section of road (as this is the critical approach to control in the event of a failure).
• has visibility of the PTCD (either the front face or rear indicator light) and traffic queues. In the case of a single TC operating two PTCDs, the TC should be located to have visibility of both devices and traffic queues for each approach.

In addition to these recommendations, other considerations include:

• Planning the site arrangements so that, where possible, one hand-held remote controller can be used to operate the PTCDs.
• Using an elevated location (to maximise sight distance).
• Positioning the TC behind safety barrier (clear of deflection zone).
• Parking vehicles clear of the traffic control station.
• Using shade to reduce sun exposure and heat stress wherever appropriate.
• Managing fatigue; for example, if a suitable position is available, the TC may be seated while performing TC duties.