Road plates are a reliable way to restore vehicle access and keep projects on schedule when roadwork or excavation interferes with traffic. However, there are a few rules and regulations to take care of when using road plates on public roads. Overlooking the rules can lead to accidents, project delays, and legal actions.
This guide breaks down what counts as a “public road,” when the rules apply, and the key compliance steps every contractor must follow.
What comes under “Public roads” and related areas?
Australia follows the Australian Road Rules (ARR), a national model that defines the foundation for road safety and traffic management. Each state and territory adopts these rules through its own legislation; hence, the core principles remain the same, but local conditions and approval processes can differ.
According to ARR, a public road includes any area open to or used by the public for driving or riding vehicles. This means that even work zones, shared paths, and parking areas can fall under road-related areas.
If you are installing road plates anywhere that vehicles or pedestrians move, the rules apply.
Key traffic control rules for installing road plates on public roads
1. Traffic management planning and approval
You cannot install any road plate on a public road without a clear, approved Traffic Management Plan (TMP). It’s a document that shows how you plan to maintain safety, manage traffic flow, and comply with the relevant standards.
A TMP must outline how you’ll manage vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians during installation, use, and removal of road plates. Consider signage, lane closures, detours and diagrams of it if needed. A good practice is to always have a copy of your TMP on-site in case the inspectors need to check.
2. Use of signage, barriers, and control devices
Proper signage is necessary. You’re legally required to warn approaching drivers and pedestrians of any change in road conditions, as it prepares them in advance for what’s coming. Use cones, barricades and lights to maintain visibility and guide traffic safely around the work.
3. Placement and securing of road plates
Always ensure the road plates are properly installed. Otherwise, they can cause accidents leading to legal consequences.
- Check that the load rating suits the expected traffic.
- Ensure there are no raised edges and the plate ends are smooth with the road’s surface.
- Secure plates with fixing pins or bitumen ramps to prevent movement.
- Use anti-skid coatings or surface texture to prevent slippage, especially in wet conditions.
All our road plates have high-quality anti-skid coatings that have helped one of our customers prevent accidents on site.
4. Speed limits and driver awareness
You might require temporary speed limits near plate installations. The limits should be a part of your TMP and approved by the local authorities. Clearly mark and display the temporary speed limit using proper signage.
5. Monitoring and maintenance
Over time, the conditions change, plates may shift, bolts might loosen, or asphalt ramps degrade. Assign a site supervisor to inspect the setup regularly and specifically after heavy rain or traffic surges. Any issue should be corrected immediately. Regular checks show compliance and prevent accidents.
Also read: How to choose the right road plate for your project
6. Removal and Restoration
Once work is complete, remove plates promptly and restore the surface to its original condition. This includes filling trenches, cleaning debris, and removing all signage and barriers. Leaving equipment behind can result in fines and complaints from road users or councils.
Legend Hire’s road plates for hire
Legend Hire provides road plates for hire all across Australia. Our road plates are manufactured and certified to meet Australian Standards. With anti-slip coatings, lift points, and a variety of sizes and thicknesses available, they meet the practical demands of safe traffic control.
Besides providing road plates, we offer support and installation services so your site stays compliant and safe. From delivery and placement to securing the plate, we stay with our customers to ensure a smooth workflow. Our team of experts understand the safety and compliance conditions and the practical demands of public road works, so you get equipment plus expertise.
Check out how our team delivered and installed 15+ plates and reopened the road for traffic within 3 hours.