Behavioural signage for paths#
A signage system to encourage path users to behave in a predictable and cooperative manner has been developed (see Figure 6.2.4(a)).
Guidance signs to communicate four key behavioural messages to path users can be used singly or in groups relevant to site specific conditions:
- 1.keep left when using the path
- 2.warn other path users on approach and overtaking
- 3.move off the path when stopped, and
- 4.walkers control your dogs.
These four key messages are recommended to be implemented in an incremental approach as shown in Table 6.2.4(a).
Choosing the appropriate level of path signage requires an understanding of the types of path user and some information on the predominant types of conflicts and their locations.
The incremental approach aims to avoid excessive signing and visual clutter which reduces message effectiveness. Excessive signing and pavement markings can also introduce unintended safety consequences (hazards adjacent to the path, slip resistance issues on the path) can result in unnecessary capital costs, maintenance costs and injury claims.
It is recommended that an incremental ‘bottom up’ approach be used when installing the signs. Behavioural messages begin with Level 1. Level 1 messages may be sufficient to significantly improve user behaviour and reduce conflicts to an acceptable level. Allow path users to get used to the Level 1 messages and, if necessary, make some observations or obtain feedback from path users. If further education of path users is required, consider introducing a Level 2 approach and then, if appropriate, site specific Level 3 messages addressing known issues targeted at path ‘hot spots’.
| Level | Level of usage | Recommended installation |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Low use and few reported conflicts. | Path centreline and pavement symbols. See Queensland MUTCD Part 9 for path pavement marking recommendations. |
| Level 2 | Moderate path use and number of reported conflicts. | As for Level 1 plus group signs (Figure 6.2.4(a) Items (e) or (g)) at key locations and sign columns (f)). |
| Level 3 | High path use and number of reported conflicts | As for Level 2 plus additional single or grouped behavioural signs according to the type and level of reported and observed conflicts. |
TC2306_1 · TC2306_2 · (a) Keep Left sign · (b) Warn When Approaching · TC2306_3 · (c) Move Off Path When Stopped sign encourages path users to keep the path clear · TC2306_4 · (d) Control Your Dog sign · Above sign sizes: 250mm W x 330mm H · (e) Preferred group sign for path entry or major path access points. Recommended for Level 2 behavioural messages. Where space is limited, use example (g) layout below. · Sign column can be double sided to display signs facing users travelling in opposite direction · (f) Level 2 sign column installed at intermediate locations (500m intervals) · (g) Alternate layout of group sign for path entry or major path access points. Recommended for Level 2 behavioural messages. Note other behavioural signs may be used.