As noted in a previous brief , minimising workers’ exposure to traffic is key to improving roadwork safety. Common approaches to reducing worker and traffic controller exposure include the use of portable stop/slow devices such as portable traffic lights, boom gates, and electronic variable message signs (VMS). Recently published research by Deakin University explored the motivators and barriers for the use of portable traffic control devices in Australia, with some interesti

The benefits of lower vehicle speeds are regularly reported in terms of safety, particularly for vulnerable road users, where the relationship between impact speed (velocity) and survivability is generally well-established, as noted previously . Less often reported are the environmental impacts of lower speeds, including reduced vehicle emissions and fuel consumption, which may be expected in many cases where speed reduction measures are implemented. With research on this top

As reported in a previous brief on smart traffic management technology, variable speed limits (VSL) have been shown to significantly reduce crash rates while simultaneously improving traffic flow, particularly in congestion scenarios. VSL adjusts speed limits in real-time based on triggers such incidents, adverse weather and congestion, producing crash reductions of up to 34% according to some studies 1 . Smart motorways with VSL systems are increasing in number across Austr