Report supports harmonisation of Australian road markings

Research from the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB) has found a need for national performance specifications for pavement markings.

An Austroads report, written by Georgia O’Connor, Caroline Evans and Peter Cairney of ARRB found line marking practice varies between agencies and that some do not comply with the Australian Standard.

Material specifications and guidance on the replacement or remarking of pavement markings also differ between jurisdictions, which can contribute to higher agency costs and inconsistent service to motorists and other road users.

The report investigated the longitudinal and transverse line marking types and widths used by the State and Territories, with the aim of harmonising them as far as practical.

It also reported on road agency pavement marking specifications in order to develop a national specification for pavement markings.

Emphasis was given to the harmonisation of the widths and specifications of stop lines, give-way lines, turns, pedestrian cross walk lines, dividing lines for multi-lane roads, tram lines, pavement arrows, pavement letters, audio-tactile line markings and wide centreline treatments.

It collated current practice in the different jurisdictions, reviewed literature developed overseas, and considers agency and industry proposals for revised specifications, which was followed up by consultation with individual agencies and key stakeholders.

Ms O’Connor and Ms Evans said pavement markings are essential for the comfortable, safe and efficient operation of Australia’s road network.

“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,” the authors said.

“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.”