Chapter 7 - Traffic Signs, Markings and Signals

PREPARATION OF THE EAST AFRICAN TRANSPORT FACILITATION STRATEGY
BUREAU FOR INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION Chapter 7 page 1

Thematic Area No.1

Working Paper

Chapter 7

HARMONIZATION OF ROAD
TRAFFIC SIGNS



TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACRONYMS / ABBREVIATIONS............................................................................................................................... 4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................................... 5
7.1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................... 7
7.1.1 BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................................................... 7
7.1.2 OBJECTIVE ................................................................................................................................................ 7
7.1.3 METHODS ................................................................................................................................................ 7
7.2 ROAD SIGNS.............................................................................................................................................. 7
7.2.1 PLACEMENT AND MOUNTING OF ROAD SIGNS ................................................................................................... 7
7.2.2 REGULATORY SIGNS .................................................................................................................................... 9
7.2.3 WARNING SIGNS ...................................................................................................................................... 10
7.2.4 GUIDANCE SIGNS ..................................................................................................................................... 11
7.2.5 INFORMATION SIGNS ................................................................................................................................. 13
7.2.6 SIGNING AT ROAD WORKS .......................................................................................................................... 14
7.2.7 TRAFFIC SIGN MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURE................................................................................................ 14
7.2.8 ROAD SIGNS MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................................... 15
7.3 PAVEMENT MARKINGS........................................................................................................................... 15
7.3.1 PURPOSE AND CLASSIFICATION .................................................................................................................... 15
7.3.2 DESIGN PRINCIPLES AND SIZES ..................................................................................................................... 16
7.3.3 NO OVERTAKING LINES AND PAVEMENT MARKING SCHEDULE ............................................................................. 17
7.3.4 WHY ADOPT WHITE SOLID LINE TO PROHIBIT OVERTAKING ................................................................................ 18
7.3.5 MARKING AT JUNCTIONS ............................................................................................................................ 19
7.3.6 PAVEMENT MARKING MATERIALS ................................................................................................................ 19
7.3.7 ROAD STUDS ........................................................................................................................................... 19
7.3.8 SUMMARY .............................................................................................................................................. 20
7.4 TRAFFIC SIGNALS............................................................................................................................................ 21
7.4.1 PURPOSE, MEANING AND USE ..................................................................................................................... 21
7.4.2 BASIS FOR INSTALLATION OR REMOVAL OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL ................................................................................. 21
7.4.3 DESIGN PRINCIPLES ................................................................................................................................... 21
7.5 TRAFFIC SIGNSFOR SCHOOL ZONES AND PEDESTRIANS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS........................................ 23
7.5.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................................................ 23
7.5.2 ROAD SIGNS............................................................................................................................................ 23
7.5.3 PAVEMENT MARKINGS .............................................................................................................................. 24
7.5.4 TRAFFIC SIGNALS ...................................................................................................................................... 24
7.5.5 SUPERVISED CROSSING .............................................................................................................................. 24
7.5.6 GRADE SEPARATED CROSSINGS .................................................................................................................... 24


7.5.7 PEDESTRIANS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS ............................................................................................................... 24
7.6 SIGNING FOR TRAFFIC CALMING ............................................................................................................. 25
7.6.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 25
7.6.2 TYPES OF TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ......................................................................................................... 25
7.6.3 PLANNING FOR TRAFFIC CALMING ................................................................................................................ 26
7.6.4 TRAFFIC CALMING SIGN APPLICATIONS .......................................................................................................... 27
7.7 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR APPROVED CHANGES............................................................................... 28

BIBLIOGRAPHY / REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................. 29
ANNEXES............................................................................................................................................................. 30
ANNEX 1: REGULATORY SIGNSSCHEDULE............................................................................................................ 31
ANNEX 2: WARNING SIGNSSCHEDULE................................................................................................................. 41
ANNEX 3: GUIDANCE SIGNSSCHEDULE ................................................................................................................ 52
ANNEX 4: INFORMATION SIGNSSCHEDULE ......................................................................................................... 55
ANNEX 5: PAVEMENT MARKINGS SCHEDULE ....................................................................................................... 57
ANNEX 6: TRAFFIC SIGNAL INDICATIONS IN USE AND THEIR MEANING ............................................................... 61



ACRONYMS / ABBREVIATIONS

AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
ATSSA The American Traffic Safety Association
GTS Guide to Traffic Signing Issued by MoID, Tanzania
ITE Institute of Transportation Engineers
KTSR The Kenya Traffic Act Traffic Signs Regulations
MUTCD Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
RTSM SADC Road Traffic Signs Manual
SADC Southern African Development Community
TCD Traffic Control Devices



EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This chapter reports on the areas of harmonization of traffic signs in the EAC member states.
Traffic signs include road signs, traffic signals (traffic lights), and road markings. They are used
by road authorities to communicate with road users with view to regulate their behaviour, to
guide, warn or inform them for their own safety and convenience on the public road networks.
International conventions provide a framework for traffic signs and each member state has
adopted a set of traffic signs to meet their current needs through their traffic law and/or traffic
signs manual. Traffic signs regulations and manuals keep evolving to meet the needs of the
travelling public. The harmonization of traffic signs in the EAC is essential to the safety and
convenience of the public travelling on the road networks whether for trade, tourism, education
or other purposes.
The main recommendation of this chapter is to integrate the existing road traffic signs and road
marking schedules of the member states and adopt any additional signs deemed appropriate.
Burundi recently commissioned a consultant to undertake a review of her traffic signs and it is
understood at the time of writing a report has been submitted and the government is considering
the recommendations. We recommend that the government consider the recommendations in
the light of the need for harmonization indicated herein. In the few cases where there were
differences in practice between the member states we have recommended adoption of a road
traffic sign or marking that agrees with the SADC-RTSM. Each member state should develop
and publish its road traffic signs manual. This will facilitate the harmonization of the more
technical aspects of road signing which are provided for generally in the law.
A prudent implementation of approved changes is recommended whereby the adopted signs
and designs are applied on all new and rehabilitation projects and in the course of maintenance
of road signs. No special budget will be required if this approach is approved.
ROAD SIGNS
Generally there exists no big difference in the use of road signs in the member states. To
ensure greater uniformity in the installation of road signs the following are recommended.
i. The guidance on mounting and placement by member state manuals should be more
explicit to reduce differences and achieve greater convenience of road users.
Specifically guidance for placement and sign plate sizes for roads with different design
speeds should be explicitly be stated. Recommendations are included in this chapter.
ii. The member states regulatory signs schedules are generally similar and the differences
are complementary and not conflicting. It is recommended to integrate the existing
regulatory signs schedule. Additional signs may be adopted from SADC RTSM.
iii. Warning signs schedules current in member states be integrated including temporary
warning signs.


iv. Guidance and information signs schedule current in member states be integrated and
enriched by adopting additional signs from the RTSM (SADC).
v. Appropriate regulatory and warning signs be used as temporary signs at road works.
vi. Road authorities in member states should adopt management practices that will ensure
consistent application and maintenance of road signs at all relevant locations at all
times.

ROAD MARKINGS
The use of pavement markings in the member states is generally similar and the minor
differences that exist should be harmonized by conforming to the SADC guide. In this regard
some member states will need to replace the use yellow line used to prohibit overtaking in
favour of white line. This provides for greater uniformity and has economical and technical
advantages since the application of white line is cheaper and has better retro-reflectivity. Since
there are circumstances which may require installation of road studs for better visibility, member
states should be encouraged to adopt their use formally.

TRAFFIC SIGNALS
There are no major differences in the regulations for operation of traffic signals in the member
states. The meaning of the lights and sequencing are generally consistent and road users can
quickly adapt to the slight differences that exist. However, phasing out of traffic signals based on
only the red and green light (two lights system) is desirable. The installation of two sets of signal
heads per approach, one set on the near side of the approach and the other set at the far side
of the approach is desirable especially on arterial road junctions. It is of utmost importance that
junctions with similar traffic conditions be controlled in a uniform manner in the interest of
consistency and developing respect for traffic signs. Signals should therefore be installed where
an engineering study confirms that their installation is warranted. The process should be guided
by competent professional on the basis of current best practices especially the guidance
provided in SADC-RTSM.
TRAFFIC SIGNS FOR SCHOOL ZONES AND FOR PEDESTRIANS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
The practice of developing school route plan, defining school zones and the necessary traffic
signing around schools both in urban and rural areas is recommended for adoption by member
states as means of providing for safety and convenience of school children when walking to
school within school zones. The needs of physically challenged road users should also be
provided through proper signing and road design.
SIGNING FOR TRAFFIC CALMING
The need for traffic calming across the member states is being met without the benefit of a
systematic approach involving both the professionals and the public. Sometimes the traffic
signing is not adequate and the measures are not visible to the road users. Harmonization of
the planning, signing and design of traffic calming measures is recommended.


7.1 INTRODUCTION

7.1.1 Background

This paper addresses a part of thematic area one, namely: Harmonisation of Standards
and Specifications. This chapter addresses the sixth component: harmonisation of road
signs, traffic signals and markings. For the purpose of this chapter traffic signs include
road signs, traffic signals and markings; sometimes referred to as traffic control devices
(TCD). The paper thus presents a review of the legal traffic signs and recommended
practices in the member states and identifies areas requiring harmonization.
7.1.2 Obj ective
The objective of this chapter is to make recommendations for the Harmonisation of
Road Signs, Traffic Signals and Markings as spelt out in the ToR.
7.1.3 Methods
Methods adopted for the study included the review of member state and best practices
documents in order to identify areas of harmonization and improvement and interaction
with stakeholders and experts in the member states to get their view on the proposals.

7.2 ROAD SIGNS

The following paragraphs summarize legal requirements for road signs, recommendations in
current manuals and suggest the way forward where harmonization is required.
7.2.1 Placement and Mounti ng of Road Si gns

The following general advice on sign mounting and positioning is recommended though it might
not be possible to follow the advice exactly due to site constraints:
Check that the signs are clearly visible from the appropriate distance
Check that there is no confusion about which road the sign refers to
Check that signs do not obstruct the view of drivers, especially at junctions
Check that the signs are not placed where they could be struck by vehicles

Placement
Signs on two-lane roads should be placed on the side of the road on which the traffic it is
intended to control is using except on sharp bends where signs placement on the other side will


make it more visible. On dual carriageway roads warning and regulatory signs should be
installed in pairs, one on the left-hand and another on the median. The table below relates the
approach speed to the required visibility.

Approach speed
(km/h)
Visibility distance
to the sign (m)
60 km/h 60
80 km/h 80
100 km/hr 100 150

The GTS further recommended that, if two signs are to be placed at the same place they should
be spaced at least V metres apart (where V is the approach speed in km/h) to avoid obscurity.

In Rwanda (driving in the right) the requirement is to place signs on the right side of the road.
The warning (danger) signs must be place 150 m to 200 m from the dangerous area. An
additional panel should be used to indicate the distance to the dangerous location if it is not
practical to place the sign at 150 to 200 m from it.

Mounting
Heights and side Clearances
Recommended mounting heights are given in Table 2 in the MoID GTS. The
recommended standard mounting height is 2100 mm from the lowest edge of the sign
plate to the road surface. The law in Rwanda specifies a minimum height of 1.50 m and
not more than 2.10 m above the ground (Article 92).

Multiple Signs / Secondary Message Signs

The RTSM and the GTS recommend that a secondary sign to be mounted beneath the primary
sign to which it refers, and when two or more warning signs are mounted on the same sign pole
the sign at the top should refer to the nearest of the hazards. When appropriate it is better to
place the secondary message signs on the same sign plate as the primary sign (stronger plate,
less chance for vandalism).

Angle of the Sign Plate
The recommended sign plate angle in the RTSM is 93
0
to the direction of travel in order to avoid
mirror-like glare when the sign is illuminated by vehicle headlights.

Placement and mounting requirements can be summarized as follows:
i. To adopt standard height of the bottom border of a sign at 2.10 m above the ground and
to allow greater heights if it is necessary to achieve visibility of the sign.
ii. Mounting of secondary sign below the primary sign be accepted where it is not a
standard practice.
iii. Adopt mounting angle (93
0
) to the direction of travel.
iv. Required visibility to be equal to or greater than the design speed of the road.



7.2.2 Regulatory Si gns

Use and Classification
Regulatory signs are used to control the actions of road users in the interest of safety and the
efficient use of road space. The table below shows the classification of regulatory signs.

Group Function
Sign numbers in the
GTS
Control
Exercise control over the right
of way of traffic
R1 R6
Command Instruct drivers what to do R103 R137
Prohibition
Instruct drivers what they must
not do
R201 R245
Reservation
Reserve road space for specific
vehicle types
R301 R360

Temporary Signs
The colours of the Control Group of signs such as STOP sign should not change when the sign
is used on a temporary basis, but the background of command, prohibition and reservation
group sign when are used for temporary restrictions such as at roadwork should be yellow. The
table below shows the colour code for temporary regulatory signs.

Command Group Prohibition Group Reservation Group
Border Black Red Black
Background Yellow Yellow Yellow
Symbol Black Black Black

End of a Restriction
The GTS and the Traffic Act Regulations (Kenya) superimpose four black diagonal bars on a
grey version of the restriction sign.

Placement and Sizes
In general regulatory sign should be sited on the side of the road the traffic is using at or near
the point where the instruction applies. The Table below gives the recommended sizes for
standard regulatory signs given in the Kenya Traffic Act (Regulations, Revised edition 2009)
and the GTS.



Approach
Speed
GTS KTSR
Circular sign
(diameter) ( mm)
Rectangular
sign (H x W)
(mm)
Circular sign
(diameter)
( mm)
Rectangular
sign (H x W)
(mm)
60 km/h
600
(900 on 3-lane
roads and dual
carriageways)
600 x 450
Should be not
less than 600
Should be not
less than
100 x 300
80 km/h 900 900 x 675
100 km/h 1200 1200 x 900
Overhead
signs
1600 1600 x 1200

The general principle of using dimensions corresponding with the design speed should be
adopted in this case.

The GTS recommends reduced signs for the following circumstances:
- Signs on traffic signal heads 300 mm diameter
- Keep Left signs on traffic bollards 300 mm diameter
- Parking signs 450 mm diameter and 450 x 340 mm

Schedule of Regulatory Signs
Annex 1: Schedule of regulatory signs shows that many signs are common and member states
schedules are complimentary. Adoption of few additional signs from the SADC-RTSM is
appropriate.

7.2.3 Warni ng Signs

Warning signs are used to alert drivers to danger or potential danger ahead. The Rwanda
Traffic law and the GTS listed two groups of warning signs:

Group Description Proposed Sign numbers
Advance Warning Signs
Road Layout W100 Series
Movement W200 Series
Symbol W300 Series
Hazard Marker Signs Curve and object markers W400 Series

Supplementary plates may be used underneath the primary sign.

Temporary Signs
The GTS provides for the use of warning signs in temporary situations. When they are used in
such situations they should have yellow backgrounds instead of white background. The
following signs have been documented in the manual for use in temporary situations:


Description Background Proposed Sign numbers
Road works Yellow TW336
Loose stones Yellow TW338
Edge drop Yellow TW340
Stop/Go Control
Ahead
Yellow TW343
Road Crash Yellow TW353

Placement and Sizes
The following Table gives the sitting distances and sizes of standard warning signs for different
traffic speeds as recommended in the GTS (based on SADC-RTSM). The Kenya Traffic Act
Traffic Signs Regulations - KTSR) requires a warning signs length to be not less than 700 mm.

Approach
speed
Distance of
sign from
hazard (m)
1
Advance
warning
signs side
length (mm)
Hazard marker signs
Width
height
W401
W402
W405
W406
W407
W408
W409
2
W410
60 km/h 100 900
200
800
400
400
1200
400
2400
400
80 km/h 160 1200
250
1000
600
600
1800
600
3600
600
100 km/h 240 1500
300
1200
800
800
2400
800
4800
800
1
Does not apply to hazard markers.
2
When used underneath a direction sign the sign should
be adjusted to equal the length of the direction sign.

Schedule of Warning Signs
Annex 2 presents the integrated schedules of warning signs from the member states with few
additions from the SADC-RTSM. Member states need to adopt signs not currently in use in their
jurisdiction as shown. Their dimension should match the design speed of a given road as shown
above.

7.2.4 Gui dance Si gns

Guidance signs give road users information on how to find their way to their destination. The
SADC-RTSM classified guidance signs into five groups as shown below:


Group Description
Proposed sign number
prefix
Location Place names, river names GL
Direction
Direction signs before and at
junctions
GD
Tourism
Direction to tourist attractions,
services and facilities
GF
Location direction
Direction signs for minor, local
destinations in urban areas
GDL
Diagrammatic
Signs warning of a change in
road layout ahead ( e.g. start
and finish of climbing lane)
GS

Direction Signs Types and Placement

The SADC-RTSM elaborates on guidance signs as shown below:

Types of Signs Description
Advance direction signs (GD1, GD5, GD8) They are used to give route information to
drivers approaching a junction
Direction signs (GD2, GD4) They are used to give route information at the
junction and often point along the route
referred to
Confirmation signs (GD3) These list the destinations ahead, and are
placed about 100 m after important junctions,
and at intervals along the road.

Recommended placement of advance direction signs (GD1, GD5, GD8) in the GTS are as
shown below:

Approach speed
Distance of sign from
junction (m)
60 km/h 50 - 90
80 km/h 90 - 150
100 km/h 150 - 220

Sizes and design principles
To avoid confusion limit the number of destinations to four per sign. In one direction limit the
number of destinations to two with the nearest one at the top. The size of the sign depends on
the amount of text. Typically letter sizes depend on the approach speed as shown below.


Approach
speed
Typical situation
Capital letter
height (mm)
Lower case
letter height
(mm)
<50 km/h Very minor roads 112 80
50 km/h Local urban and rural roads 140 100
60 km/h
Urban and rural 2-lane roads and urban dual
carriageways
175 125
80 km/h Good standard rural main roads 210 150
100 km/h
High standard rural main roads, and all signs
mounted overhead
280 200

Member states need to adopt the SADC-RTSM approach and schedule of Guidance Signs as
shown in Annex 3.

7.2.5 Information Si gns

Use and classification
Information sign may take the form of a supplementary plate that provides additional information
to that given on the primary sign or to indicate the presence of an information center or other
facility.

Sizes and design principles

SADC-RTSM recommends:
Supplementary signs Recommended sizes/colour
Lettering, symbol and border of supplementary
plates
Black
Background White
Width of Supplementary plates Should match that of the primary sign
Capital letter height size 140 mm
Lower case letter height 100 mm
Cul-de-sac 600 mm (h) by 450 mm (w)
When the supplementary plate is to be used with a small sign such as a 600 mm diameter regulatory
sign the text size may be reduced to 112 mm/80 mm

Schedule of information signs
Annex 4 provides a sample of signs to be included in a schedule of information signs. Member
states should decide on adequate schedule for their current needs and derive it from the SADC-
RTSM.


7.2.6 Signing at Road Works

The need for appropriate signing of road works is recognized in the laws of the member states
and the RTSM SADC.

Generally regulatory and warning signs are adopted for road works by using backgrounds
recommended for temporary signs. Advance warning signs and appropriate regulatory signs
should be used. Markers may also be used as appropriate. Appropriate signs and markers are
included in the regulatory and warning signs schedules.

Maintenance manuals and specifications for road works in member states provide instructions
and those supervising the works are to ensure compliance.
7.2.7 Traffic Sign Material s and Manufacture

The following is recommended practice.

Sign Face Materials
All traffic sign, permanent and temporary, should be fully reflectorized by making the sign face
from retroreflective sheeting. Symbols or letters coloured black are recommended to be made
from black non-reflective overlay film.

Sign Plate
Use of aluminium alloy sheet is recommended due to its resistance to corrosion. Since
aluminium alloy sheets are expensive cheaper alternatives such as galvanized steel, plastic-
coated steel or steel treated with primer. The back of the sign plate be painted grey, and the
sign manufacturers name and the date of manufacture be permanently marked on it.

Sign Support Frame and Fastenings
The sign plate should be fixed to a back support frame made of angle iron or aluminium
sections. All frames, brackets, clips, rivets, nuts, bolts and washers are corrosion-proofed if not
made of aluminium or stainless steel. The frames and brackets are recommended to be painted
grey.

Sign Post
Sign posts are recommended to be made of galvanized steel tube set in concrete foundations.

Road Sign Specifications
Member states provide specifications road signs through their specifications for road works
regarding the manufacture and installation of road signs.



7.2.8 Road Si gns Management

In addition to the considerations for design, placement and materials for road signs there are
additional issues that should be addressed by road authorities to ensure uniformity in control of
traffic:
I. To make sure that every location that needs a traffic signs is provide with an appropriate
sign,
II. To ensure that where a sign is no longer needed it is removed,
III. To take precautions against theft for example by mounting the sign plate high up out of
easy reach, spot-weld the nuts onto the fixing bolts, and fill the posts with concrete or
approved vandalism proof materials are used and
IV. To ensure that signs are properly maintained and visible.

To ensure uniformity in the installation of road signs in the member states the following are
recommended.
vii. The guidance on mounting and placement by member state manuals should be more
explicit to assure uniformity hence convenience of the users. Specifically guidance for
placement and sign plate sizes for roads with different design speeds should be explicitly
be stated as illustrated
viii. The member states regulatory and warning signs schedules are generally similar and
the differences are complementary. It is recommended to integrate the existing
regulatory signs schedule as shown in the annexes.
ix. Guidance and information signs schedule current in member states be integrated and
enriched by adopting additional signs from the SADC-RTSM
x. Appropriate regulatory and warning signs be used as temporary signs at road works.
xi. Road authorities in member states should adopt management practices that will ensure
consistent application and maintenance of road signs at all relevant locations at all
times.
xii. Burundi is currently evaluating a report on traffic signs and the proposals are not
included in the annexes. We recommend that the recommendations for harmonization in
this chapter be considered for their adoption.

7.3 PAVEMENT MARKINGS
7.3.1 Purpose and Classi ficati on

Road markings are used to control, warn, or guide road users and may be classified as follows:



Road Markings Types
Longitudinal Lines Center lines, edge lines
Transverse lines Stop lines, and give way lines
Others Arrows, Symbols, Patterns and Words

7.3.2 Desi gn Principles and Sizes
Road markings should be considered in detail at the design stage of new or improved roads and
junctions.

Requirements for road markings include:
Good visibility by day and night
Good skid resistance
Durability
Clarity of message
Symbols and words should be elongated in the direction of traffic by a factor of three
times whilst retaining the original width.

Meaning assigned to centre-line and lane markings on pavement surface by regulations in the
member states and in SADC-RTSM:
Broken longitudinal lines are permissive (overtaking / lane change permitted)
Continuous solid longitudinal lines are restrictive (prohibit overtaking / lane-change)
Double continuous solid longitudinal lines indicate maximum levels of restriction
The width of the line is an indication of the degree of emphasis attached to the marking

Marking
Number
(GTS)
Colour Description
Dimension (mm)
Rural (speed> 60 km/h) Urban (speed 60 km/h)
Width Line gap Width Line gap
RTM1 White Stop Line 500 300
RTM2 White Give Way Line 300 600-300 200 600-300
RTM4 White Pedestrian
(Zebra) Crossing
3000 4000 600-600 3000 4000 600-600
RM1 White No Overtaking
Line
150 100 150 100
RM2 White No Crossing
Lines
2 x 150 (170
apart)
2 x 100 (120
apart)
2 x 150 (170
apart)
2 x 100 (120
apart)

RM3 White Channelizing Line 200 150 100 200 150 100
RM4.1 Yellow Left Edge Line 150 100 100
RM4.2 White Right Edge Line 150 100 100
RM5 Line: White
Bar: Yellow
Painted Island Edge line: 150
100
Bar: 300 200
Bar width
to space:
1:2
Edge line: 150
100
Bar: 200 150
Bar width to
space: 1:2
RM6 White Parking Bays 100 100
RM9 Yellow Exclusive Use
Lane Line
N/A 150


RM10 Yellow Box J unction N/A Border: 200
Diagonals: 150

RM11 White Zig zag Zone
Line
100 2000-150 100 2000-150
RM13 Yellow No Parking Line
(24hr)
No Parking Line
(selective times)
100

100

4000-2000
100

100

4000-2000
WM2 White Continuity Line 300 200 2000-2000
2000-4000
200 1500-1500
1500-3000
WM3 White Dividing Line 150 100 4000-8000 150 100 3000-6000
WM12 Yellow Rumble Strips 4 x 150 (400
apart)
4 x 150 (400
apart)

GM1 White Lane Line 150 100 2000-4000 150 100 1500-3000
GM2 White Guide Line 100 500-1500 100 500-1500
GM8 Black/white
Kerb face
Marking
Black: 600
1000
White: 600
1000
Black: 600
1000
White: 600
1000

Length Length
RM8 Yellow Mandatory
Direction Arrows
4000 4000 2500
RM17 Yellow Exclusive use
lane symbol
N/A 1600 (cycle)
400 (bus)

WM1 White Railway Crossing
Ahead
7500
Line width:
400
4000
Line width: 200

WM5 White Give Way Control
Ahead
4000 2500
WM6 White Lane Reduction
Arrow
6000 4000
WM7 White Lane Direction
Arrow
4000 4000 2500
WM8 White No Overtaking
Line Ahead
4000 3000
WM10 White Road Hump 1500
Square:
500x500
1500
Square:
500x500

WM11 White End of Exclusive
Use Lane Arrow
N/A WM11.1: 7200
WM11.2: 6000

GM3 White Bifurcation Arrow 5000 4000
GM6 White Cycle Facility N/A 1600
GM7 White Word Marking 4000 4000 2500
GM9 white Speed Limit 7500
symbol width:
1500
4300
Symbol width:
1500

7.3.3 No Overtaki ng Lines and Pavement Marking Schedule
These are continuous white lines (yellow in Kenya and Uganda) which imposes a mandatory
requirement that drivers keep the line to their right (driving on the left) unless when turning into
or out of a side access. The lines are provided at places with limited sight distances or other


hazardous conditions. On vertical and horizontal curves with sight distances less than those
indicated below, no overtaking lines should be applied.

Traffic speed
Sight distance
(m)
50 km/h

60 km/h

80 km/h

100 km/h

120 km/h
150

180

250

300

400

The recommended minimum length of overtaking line on vertical and horizontal curves is 150 m
and the absolute recommended minimum distance between successive overtaking lines is 120
m. when used on the approach to junctions a minimum length of 24 m is recommended and
may be increase to 60 m or more at higher traffic speeds. No overtaking lines will be termed as
No crossing lines when two of these lines are used one for each direction of traffic.

It was noted above that SADC-RTSM use the white line to prohibit overtaking. This is practiced
in Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania (Mainland and Zanzibar) while Kenya and Uganda use the
practice is to use the yellow colour. It is in the interest of uniformity within the member states
and SADC block to adopt the white solid line to prohibit overtaking. Some technical reasons for
this recommendation are summarized in the next section.

Pavement Markings Schedule
Annex 5 presents pavement markings in common use in the member states except for the
yellow line to prohibit overtaking as used in Kenya and Uganda. We recommend harmonization
to adopt white line as per SADC-RTSM.

7.3.4 Why Adopt White Solid Li ne to Prohi bit Overtaki ng
It was recommended above that white lines be adopted by EAC member states for prohibiting
overtaking. Two practical reasons were given: to achieve uniformity within the member states
with regard to this practice and to conform to the practice in SADC countries. The second
reason is motivated by the fact that there is already a move to harmonize the three trading
regions COMESA, EAC and SADC.

From the historical perspective, according Hawakins et al (2002), MUTCD (USA) required the
use of the yellow markings to separate traffic travelling in opposite directions in 1971. However,
USA has been considering the option of using all-white pavement marking system used in most


industrialized countries. The technical advantages of using white pavement markings over the
yellow line identified in the report by Hawkins et al (2002) and relevant to our situation included:

i. All other factors being equal, white markings have higher retro-reflectivity than yellow
markings, and
ii. Some of the pigments used in yellow markings are difficult to recognize as yellow in
nighttime conditions.

In addition, white markings are cheaper than white markings.
Considering that drivers understand the use of solid line to indicate as prohibitive it will not be
necessary to remove the yellow lines immediately but allow their use till the end of their useful
life when they will be replaced by white marking. Their replacement will therefore be done at no
additional cost.
7.3.5 Marking at Junctions

Guidance on application of marking principles on un-signalized and signalized junctions is
offered in RTSM SADC. We recommend the adoption of the guidance offered by the member
states as this will fill a gap in most member states.
7.3.6 Pavement Marki ng Materi als

General guidance:
Road Paint: Use paint which dry quickly, durable and have good skid resistance.
Thermoplastic: Hot-applied thermoplastic is the preferred marking materials.
Reflectorization: Road markings materials should be reflectorized by the addition of reflecting
glass beads.

Specifications:
Road works specifications in the member states should specify materials that will ensure
durability especially for road with heavy traffic, visibility and good skid resistance.
7.3.7 Road studs

Use of road studs
Some member states have clear regulation on the use of road studs. Because of their cost, road
studs are generally used under the following conditions:
Frequent mist, fog or rain (making it difficult to see the road markings)
Poor visibility due to glare from headlights of oncoming vehicles
Difficult alignment (e.g. roads with many bends, some of which may be hard to see)
Roadside hazards (e.g. reduced carriageway width or limited clearance to obstacles)
Other hazardous sites.



It is advisable to use road studs where they may reduce hazard to travellers. The following
guidance should be adopted.

Colour and Spacing
Recommended colour and spacing:
RED for Prohibition
YELLOW for Warning
WHITE for Guidance

The following table shows the recommended spacing of road studs on continuous lines and
dividing line:

Lines Spacing
No Overtaking Lines

Rural areas: 24 m
Urban areas: 18 m
Edge Lines

Rural areas: 24 m and 50 mm away from the line
Urban areas: 18 m and 50 mm away from the line
Diving Line Every second gap

The GTS recommended road studs to be aligned with the pavement markings and be placed
between lines for parallel lines and should never be use on transverse markings since they
could undermine vehicles stopping ability and are hazardous to two-wheeled vehicles.

Specifications
Road works specification should specify the standards to be adopted. It should be noted that if
the type of bonding adopted can be undermined by pavement markings then they should not be
installed on top of road markings.

7.3.8 Summary
The use of pavement markings in the member states is generally similar and the minor
differences that exist should be harmonized by conforming to the SADC guide. In this regard
some member states will need to replace the use yellow line to prohibit overtaking in favour of
white line. The details including line width, length of lines and gaps are given above. Since there
are circumstances which may require installation of road studs for better visibility, member
countries should be encouraged to adopt their use.


7.4 TRAFFIC SIGNALS

7.4.1 Purpose, Meani ng and Use
The purpose of traffic signals is to provide positive control of vehicular and pedestrians at road
junctions, pedestrian crossings, multilane roadways and railway crossings.

The assignment of right of way is by green light illumination while the right of way is denied by a
red signal. Usually an amber (yellow) illumination is shown as a transition from green time to red
time. The meanings of the traffic signal indications under the three colour system described
above and for pedestrian signals are given in Annex 6. Two light system is also in use where
the amber is replaced simultaneous illumination of both the red and green light.

It is highly desirable to ensure uniform usage of traffic signals so that similar traffic conditions
are controlled in a consistent manner. This encourages compliance and achieves higher safety
level. The basis for installation or removal of traffic signals in the member states and their
placement is therefore proposed below.
7.4.2 Basi s for Install ati on or Removal of Traffic Signal

Traffic signal control should only be installed when an engineering study of traffic and roadway
conditions at the intersections confirms that a signal control is warranted. The decision is based
on careful analysis of traffic operations and needs of pedestrians and cyclists at many
signalized and un-signalized road junctions combined with engineering judgement which
resulted in a series of warrants defining minimum conditions under which signalization might be
justified. To ensure uniformity signalized intersections which no longer meet the minimum
conditions should have their signals removed.

It is important for junctions with similar conditions within the EAC to be controlled in the same
way for the interest of uniformity. The requirements for design and installation of traffic signals
set out in the RTSM (SADC) should be adopted by the member states.

7.4.3 Desi gn Principles

Generally signals are used to control traffic at warranted junctions in built-up areas on roads
with speed limit of 50 km/hr. When used on roads with higher speed limits (up to 70 km/hr and
rarely 80 km/hr) advance warning signs are used, visibility should be excellent, all right turning
movements should be fully protected and at least one signal on each high speed approach
should be mounted overhead. The following good practice guidance on the mounting and
positioning of signals at junctions, pedestrian crossings and railway crossings are consistent


with the requirements of the member state documents. Where exceptions occur in practice
improvement is recommended.

Location of
the signal
Description

Signals at
junctions

Signal head should be mounted on a post at the side of the road. The clearance of
the signal heads from the road surface should be 2.3 m to 3m.
The signals should be mounted vertically with the red signal at the top, yellow at
the middle and green at the bottom with the lenses protected from direct sunlight
by hoods.
Signal head should not be within 500mm of the kerb face
Signal lens diameter should not be less than 200 millimetres and no more than 300
millimetres.
The unit casing should be painted black or grey and the post should be painted
grey.
Overhead signals clearance height above the road surface not be less than 5.2 m.
Install two signal heads per approach, one on the near side of the junction and
another on the far side.
The distance between the centres of the lenses not to be more than 400
millimetres apart.
Sequence of the lights
i. Red
ii. Red and amber/yellow (optional)
iii. Green
iv. amber
Signal heads should be visible from at least 80 m for 50 km/hr approaches and
110 m if the traffic speed is more than 50 km/h
Pedestrian
signals
The signals should be arranged vertically with the red standing man signal at the
top and the green walking man at the bottom and illuminated separately.
The signal lens diameter should not be less than 200 millimetres and no more than
300 millimetres
Signal head clearance should not be less than 2.1 m and not more than 2.6m.
Signals at
Railway
Crossing
The signal lens diameter should at least be 200mm
Signal should be positioned within 5 - 10 m of the nearest rail line.
Signal should be mounted at the left hand side of the road or above the
carriageway

There are no major differences in the regulations for operation of traffic signals in the member
states. The meaning of the lights and sequencing are generally consistent and road users can
quickly adapt to the slight differences that exist. However, phasing out of traffic signals based on
only the red and green light (two lights system) is desirable. The installation of two sets of signal
heads per approach, one set on the near side of the approach and the other set at the far side
of the approach is desirable especially on arterial road junctions. It is of utmost importance that
junctions with similar traffic conditions be controlled in a uniform manner in the interest of
consistency and developing respect for traffic signs. Signals should therefore be installed where
an engineering study confirms that their installation is warranted. The process should be guided
by a competent professional on the basis of current best practices.


7.5 Traffic Signs for School Zones and Pedestrians with
Special Needs
7.5.1 General
School going children constitute significant proportion of the population of any country and
require specific attention for schools in urban centres or in rural areas where school route
crosses a major road. It is important that similar traffic situations are treated in the same manner
for the interest of uniformity. Generally school crossing are not addressing very specifically in
the existing guides or regulations but their needs are assumed to be met within the existing
framework of road signing.
We recommend that for interest of uniformity schools crossing be managed in similar manner
within the member states. Schools, traffic police and respective road agency should develop a
school route plan consisting of a map showing streets, the school, existing traffic signs, school
routes and crossings. The types of school traffic signs to be used should depend on the volume
and speed of traffic, street width and the age and number of children using the crossing. The
following sections describe road signs, pavement markings, traffic signals, supervised crossing
and grade separation that might be used in school zones. In addition, the use of calming
measures should be carefully considered in areas where driver compliance to school zone
regulatory signs is low.
The practice of developing school route plan, defining school zones and the necessary traffic
signing around schools both in urban and rural areas is recommended for adoption by member
states as means of providing for safety and convenience of school children when walking within
school zones.

7.5.2 Road Si gns
School signs shall be place where they will convey their message most effectively without
restricting sight distance or being in danger of being hit by errant vehicles and generally comply
with requirements for regulatory or warning signs.
The following school signs are proposed:
i. School advance warning sign
ii. School bus stop ahead
iii. Reduced speed school zone ahead
iv. School speed limit (30 km/hr)
v. End of school zone

The signs are to be integrated in the regulatory and warning signs schedule.


7.5.3 Pavement Marki ngs
The standard pavement markings can be used effectively in the context of a school zone. Word
message may be used to complement mandatory signs or as information. In particular, the word
SCHOOL should be written across a lane(s) between the stop line and the zebra lines of a
crossing within a school zone.
7.5.4 Traffic Signal s
Where adequate gaps in traffic stream in a school zone are few the resulting delay may tempt
scholars to endanger themselves by attempting to cross using an insufficient gap in. Under such
circumstances it may be appropriate to consider installation pedestrian signal. The signal may
be installed if an engineering study confirms that there is sufficient justification, for example by
demonstrating that the warrant for installation of school crossing signal according to the MUTCD
is mate.
7.5.5 Supervised Crossi ng
Supervised crossing is needed where gaps are not sufficient and need to be created by an adult
who is mandated to stop vehicular traffic to allow pedestrians to cross. The following practice is
recommended:
i. Uniform of the guard: high-visibility retro-reflective safety clothing marked STW (School
Traffic Warden) on the back.
ii. Use of STOP paddle as a hand signaling device.
iii. Selection of school traffic warden shall ensure that people of at least average
intelligence, with sense of responsibility for safety of school children and are respectable
are assigned the responsibility of supervising a school crossing.
iv. The school shall have primary responsibility for the appointment of a school traffic
warden but shall consult with the traffic police and the respective road authority.
v. The hours that a school crossing needs to be supervised shall be agreed between the
school, traffic police and the respective road authority.
7.5.6 Grade Separated Crossings
A grade separated facility may be appropriate means of physically separating school children
from vehicular traffic. Generally pedestrians prefer to cross at grade and grade separated facility
should be considered when road design type or traffic volume and speed is demonstrated by an
engineering study to favour a grade separation. An over pass is easier to maintain and
supervise than an under pass and therefore should be preferred unless topography is
particularly favourable for an underpass. Grade separated facility may require the use of
barriers to prevent pedestrians from crossing at grade.
7.5.7 Pedestri ans wi th Speci al Needs
Pedestrians with special needs include the physically challenged road users including those
with poor vision, those who cannot hear and those with impaired mobility capabilities. There is a
need to warn other road users regarding their presence on a particular location so they can


exercise extra caution. We recommend including appropriate signs the schedules (regulatory
and warning signs). The provision of audible sound at signalized intersections should be used to
alert those who cannot see the pedestrian signal when it is time to cross. Road design should
include tactile surfaces to alert pedestrians with poor vision regarding the presence of a
crossing facility.

7.6 SIGNING FOR TRAFFIC CALMING
7.6.1 Introducti on
The principle goal of traffic calming is to improve traffic safety and the living environment by
moderating traffic behaviour through physical and legislative measures aimed at reducing
vehicle speeds and/or traffic volumes whilst giving due regard to mobility and accessibility
requirements. It has to be borne in mind that the road signs and markings are used when
implementing traffic calming measures and these signs generally fall into the regulatory,
warning and information signs.

There is a great need to harmonize the applications of traffic calming in the members states in
order to do away with the haphazard applications in favour of a systematic approach that
ensures uniformity and the achievement of the intended purpose with due regard to the needs
of all road users and the general public.

7.6.2 Types of Traffic Calmi ng Measures

The types are categorized in terms of measures located at intersections, those located between
intersections and area-wide measures.

Measures located at intersections
Traffic calming measures applied at intersections are primarily aimed at reducing speed into the
road or limiting or removing access movements. These measures are:
Mini-roundabouts;
Raised intersections;
Intersection diverters;
Street closures;
Intersection narrowing.

Measures located between intersections
The objective of traffic calming measures applied between intersections is to reduce vehicle
speeds. The commonly used calming measures include:
Speed humps/tables;


Chicanes, pinch points or chokers;
Rumble strips;
Carriageway narrowing;
Pedestrian crossing table;

Area-wide measures
Area-wide measures include the following applications of traffic calming:
The Woonerf this means shared space which is a concept rather than a specific
traffic calming measure.
More traditional general treatment such as one way systems: the systems are applied to
eliminate through traffic movements and to reduce vehicle speeds.

7.6.3 Planni ng for Traffi c Calming

Traffic Calming Objectives and Planning Overview
In achieving the goal of traffic calming measures as defined above, the objective is not to
exclude traffic but rather to manage and moderate its behavior by ensuring no significant
reduction of accessibility and mobility of pedestrians. To address the problem associated with
the introduction of traffic calming measures, there is a need to identify planning aspects which
need to be considered when considering the introduction of the traffic calming concept and
ensure appropriate study work is undertaken prior to considering their introduction.

Traffic Calming Study Requirements
To evaluate and conclude whether the requests from residential groups for implementation of
traffic calming measures are justified or unjustified, there is a need to ensure that a proper and
sufficiently comprehensive traffic/transport study is undertaken.

Public Involvement
To have a good point for implementation of traffic calming measures, the involvement of public
is necessary as are the residents who know or have knowledge of their area, in terms of its
traffic issues and bring concepts of problem area to the study team. In identifying who should be
included in the public involvement, the following proposed list may assist in the identification of
potential role players:
Neighbourhood resident groups/associations;
Adjacent resident groups/associations;
Local Authority within which the neighbourhood is situated;
Adjacent Local Authorities;
National Road Authority when applicable;
Representation from Emergency Services;
Representation from the business sector, commerce and industry etc. when applicable;
Representation from the private transport sector and from the authorities, operators and
users of other transport modes if applicable.


Study Requirements
Before introducing traffic calming measures, studies must be undertaken which will address and
where applicable, collect reliable information on:
The precise concerns of residents (through traffic, speed, noise, accidents etc);
The magnitude of the problem;
The origins and destinations of the external traffic;
An examination and analysis of the roads at the correct location;
Travel times through the residential neighbourhood;
The identification of other routes/roads which have the potential to be impacted should
traffic calming measures be introduced;
The implications on residents should traffic calming measures be introduced;
The implication beyond the bounds of one neighbourhood;
Emergency vehicle access requirements;
Public transport implications.

7.6.4 Traffic Calmi ng Sign Appli cations
Although road traffic signs related to traffic calming for example speed hump are prescribed in
the Road Traffic Act and many other regulatory, warning and information signs and marking of
the member states, which can be utilized when introducing traffic calming measures, however
there is a need to prescribe the additional traffic calming related signs. The table below presents
the checklist when the need for implementation of roundabouts, speed humps, chicanes/pinch
points and raised intersections is under consideration:

Type of Traffic Calming Measure checklists
Mini-roundabout
- Is any mini-roundabout in the area difficult to see,
either by day or by night?
- Is the use of retroreflective road studs advisable?
Speed Humps
- Does street lighting exist in the area?
- Is the speed hump an isolated one or part of an
area traffic calming treatment?
- Is the speed hump part of a traffic calming
treatment involving a range of different traffic
calming measures?
- Is the speed hump a flat top hump which is used
as a pedestrian crossing?
Chicanes or Pinch Points
- Are peak hour traffic volumes under 600 vehicles
per hour?
- Is the area adequately illuminated?
- Is the road used by public transport vehicles or a
significant percentage of heavy goods vehicles?
- Is operation to be one-way or two-way?


- Are chicanes to be landscaped?
- Are diagrammatic signs required to assist
awareness?
Raised Intersections
- Is the junction signalized or not?
- Are additional measures necessary to control
pedestrians?
- Can the vertical height of the plateau be made
clearly visible to drivers?

From the answers to the questions the need for additional signing can be determined. From the
point of view of traffic signing it is important that the road users be made aware of the measures
and the measures be made visible to the road users at a sufficient distance to allow proper and
safe response.
There is also a need to standardize the design of the physical devices used for traffic calming.

7.7 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR APPROVED CHANGES
The following conditions and approach to the implementation of those recommendations that
shall be approved is suggested:
i. Each member state is to develop and publish its road traffic signs manual and up-dated
highway code based on what was agreed,
ii. Member states be allowed to maintain in their manuals road signs peculiar to their own
countrys usage and most appropriate language provided that such signs shall not
constitute violation of the adopted uniform schedules,
iii. The new manual be followed in all new and rehabilitation projects and in the course of
maintenance of road signs and markings,
iv. The new manual be followed as soon as practicable for all regional routes,
v. Areas recognized and preserved as historical/heritage sites be exempt from all proposed
changes (e.g. Mji Mkogwe Zanzibar), and
vi. Each member state is to ensure that training of drivers is done using the approved road
signs schedule and an effective awareness campaign to inform road users regarding the
changes is effectively implemented.
This plan is appropriate considering that most of the changes proposed are to enhance the
visibility of signs on roads with higher design standards and expansion of the signs schedules.



Bibliography / References

FHWA, ATSSA, AASHTO and ITE (2003). Manual on Uniform Traffic Control devices for Streets
and Highways 2003 edition

Hawkins HG J r. Parham AH and Womack KN (2002) Feasibility Study for an All-White
Pavement Marking System, NCHRP Report 484, TRB Washington DC, www.TRB.org

Kenya Traffic Act (CAP 403 Laws of Kenya) Traffic Signs Regulations (Revision of 2009)

RoR (2003) Rwanda Traffic Laws (Decree)

RoU (2006) Sheria za Barabarani, The Kiswahili Highway Code, Ministry of Works, Housing and
Communication

SADC (1997) Road traffic signs Manual, Third Edition

URT - MoID (2009). A Guide to Traffic Signing



Annexes

ANNEX 1: REGULATORY SIGNS SCHEDULE .......................................................................................................... 30
ANNEX 2: WARNING SIGNS SCHEDULE................................................................................................................. 41
ANNEX 3: GUIDANCE SIGNS SCHEDULE ............................................................................................................... 52
ANNEX 4: INFORMATION SIGNS SCHEDULE .......................................................................................................... 54
ANNEX 5: PAVEMENT MARKINGS SCHEDULE ........................................................................................................ 56
ANNEX 6: MEANING OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL INDICATIONS.......................................................................................... 60



Annex 1: Regulatory Signs Schedule
S/N Sign Brief Description
B
u
r
u
n
d
i

K
e
n
y
a

R
w
a
n
d
a

U
R
T

U
g
a
n
d
a

R
e
m
a
r
k

1.

Stop

Uniform
2.

Yield / Give Way

Uniform
3.

No Entry

Uniform
4.

No Overtaking

Uniform
5.

End of Restriction

Uniform
6.

No entry for motor
cars

Uniform
7.

No entry for Goods
Vehicles

Uniform


8.

No Entry for Cyclists

Uniform
9.

No Entry for
Pedestrians

Uniform
10.

No Entry for
Motorcycles

Uniform
11.

No entry to any Motor
Vehicle

Uniform
12.

No Left Turn Ahead

Uniform
13.

No U turn

Uniform
14.

No Right Turn Ahead

Rwanda to
adopt


15.

No Excessive Noise

16.

Length Limit

Uniform
17.

Speed Limit

Uniform
18.

End of Speed Limit
Restriction

Uniform
19.

Mass Limit
.

Uniform
20.

Height Limit

Uniform
21.

Width Limit

Uniform
22.

Axle Load Limit
(single axle)

Uniform


23.

No Parking

Uniform
24.

No Stopping

Uniform
25.

Proceed Straight Only

Uniform
26.

Keep Left

Uniform
27.

Keep Right

Uniform
28.

Proceed Left Only
The sign is used to
notify drivers that they
must follow the
direction indicated on
the sign.

Uniform
29.

Proceed Right Only

Uniform


30.

Turn Right Ahead

Uniform
31.

Turn Left Ahead

Uniform
32.

Cyclists Only

Uniform
33.

(Foot path for)
Pedestrians Only

Uniform
34.

Roundabout
(For countries driving on
the right arrows point the
other way)

Uniform
35.

Give Way to
Oncoming Traffic

Uniform


36.

No entry for Buses

Kenya and
Rwanda to
adopt
37.

Road Closed to all
Vehicles in both
Directions

No entry
sign in use
in all
countries is
adequate
38.

Trucks not allowed to
overtake

URT to
adopt
39.

No entry for animal
drawn Vehicles

URT to
adopt
40.

No entry for
agricultural vehicles

URT to
adopt
41.

No entry for
handcarts

Uganda
and URT to
adopt


42.

Direction to be
followed Straight on
or Turn to the Right

Equivalent
to NO Left
turn.
URT may
adopt
43.

Direction to be
followed Straight on
or Turn to the Left

Equivalent
to NO right
turn.
URT may
adopt
44.

Direction to be
followed Turn to the
Right or to the Left

Equivalent
to No Entry
sign for the
road ahead
Others
may adopt
45.

Compulsory track for
Riders of Horseback
vehicles prohibited

Uganda
and URT
may adopt
46

Bogie Weight Limit

Others to
adopt
47

No Taxis

Others to
adopt
48

Parking

Others to
adopt


R305-P
49

R301

Area Reserved for
Buses

Others to
adopt
50

R301
Bus Parking Area

Others to
adopt
52

R302
Bus lane

Others to
adopt
53

R303
Start of Bus lane

Others to
adopt
54

R304
Bicycle Lane

Others to
adopt
55
R309-P
Parking Area for Taxis

Others to
adopt


56

R310-P
Parking Area for
Minibuses

Others to
adopt
57

R310
Area Reserved for
Minibuses

Others to
adopt
58

R313
Area Reserved for Use
by Goods Vehicles

Others to
adopt
59

R313-P
Parking for Goods
Vehicles

Others to
adopt
60

R312
Area Reserved for Use
by Delivery Vehicles

Others to
adopt
61 Further Addition
to the Regulatory
Signs Schedule
These are expected as the network is modernized to cope with growing traffic
demand. Partner states need to agree to adopt from SADC-RTSM additions to
their regulatory road traffic sign schedule.





Annex 2: Warning Signs Schedule
S/No. Sign Description
B
u
r
u
n
d
i

K
e
n
y
a

R
w
a
n
d
a

T
a
n
z
a
n
i
a

(
U
R
T
)

U
g
a
n
d
a

R
e
m
a
r
k

1.

Crossroad on Priority Road

Uniform
2.

Side Road Junction (Left)

Uniform
3.

Side Road Junction (Right)

Uniform
4.

Sharp Junction (Left)

Uganda to adopt
5.

Sharp Junction (Right)

Uganda to adopt


6.

Roundabout
(For countries driving on the
right the arrows point the other
way)

Uniform
7.

Sharp Curve (Right)

Rwanda to adopt
8.

Sharp Curve (Left)

Rwanda to adopt
9.

Combined Curves (Right
Left)

Uniform
10.

Combined Curves (Left
Right)

Uniform
11.

Two Way Traffic

Uniform
12.

Traffic Signals

Uniform


13.

Pedestrian Crossing

Uniform
14.

Children

Uniform
15.

Cyclists

Uniform
16.

Domestic Animals

Uniform
17.

Wild Animals

Uniform
18.

Railway Crossing

Uniform
19.

Steep Descent

Uniform


20.

Steep Ascent

Uniform
21.

Road Narrows Both Sides

Uniform
22.

Road Narrows From Right
Side

Uniform
23.

Road Narrows From Left Side

Uniform
24.

Uneven Roadway

Uniform
25.

Speed Humps

Rwanda to adopt


26.

Slippery Road
.

Uniform
27.

Falling Rocks (From Right)

Uniform
28.

Falling Rocks (From Left)

Uniform
29.
W 336
Loose Stones

Uniform
30.

General Warning

Uniform
31.

Jetty Edge or River Bank or
ferry berth

Uniform


32.

Drift

Rwanda to adopt
33.

Low Flying Aircraft

Uniform
34.

Railway Crossing

Uniform
35.

Railway Crossing (more than
one track)

Uniform
36.

Sharp Curve Chevron (single)
(To the Right)

Rwanda to adopt
37.

Sharp Curve Chevron (single)
(To the Left)

Rwanda to adopt
38.

Sharp Curve Chevron (Triple)
(To the Right)

Kenya to adopt


39.

Sharp Curve Chevron (Triple)
(To the Left)

Rwanda to adopt
40.

Skew T - Junction (Right)

Others may
adopt
41.

Skew T- Junction (Left)

Others may
adopt
42.

Staggered Junctions (Right-
Left)

Kenya may adopt
43.

Staggered Junctions (Left-
Right)

Kenya may adopt
44.

Sharp Junction (Half left)

Others may
adopt
45.

Sharp Junction (Half Right)

Others may
adopt


46.

Y-Junction

Kenya may adopt
47.

End of Dual Roadway (To
Right)

Kenya and
Rwanda to adopt
48.

End of Dual Roadway
(Straight on)
.

Kenya and
Rwanda to adopt
49.

Start of Dual Roadway
(Straight on)

Kenya and
Rwanda to adopt
50.

Start of Dual Roadway (To
Left)

Kenya and
Rwanda to adopt
51.

Gentle Curve ( Right)

Kenya may adopt
52.

Gentle Curve (Left)

Kenya may adopt


53.

Hairpin Bend (Right)

Others may
adopt
54.

Hairpin Bend (Left)

55.

Winding Road (Right Left)

Kenya may adopt
56.

Winding Road (Left Right)

Kenya may adopt
57.

Two Way Traffic Crossroad

Others to adopt
58.

Traffic Control " Stop" Ahead

Others to adopt
59.

Traffic Control " Yield" Ahead

Others to adopt


60.

Pedestrians

Others may
adopt
61.

Tunnel

Others to adopt
62.

Height Restricted

Others to adopt
63.

Length Restricted

Others to adopt
64.

Narrow Bridge

Others to adopt
65.

One Vehicle Width Structure

Others to adopt
66.

Crosswinds

Kenya to adopt


67.

Agricultural Vehicles

Others to adopt
68.

Traffic Queue

Others to adopt
69.

Width Restriction

Others to adopt
70.

T-junction Chevron

Others to adopt
71.
T
W 336
Road Works

Others to adopt
72

TW 339
Edge Drop

Others to adopt
73
T
W 353
Road Crash

Others to adopt


74
T
W 343
Stop/go Control Ahead

Others to adopt
75
1) Other SADC - RTSM warning signs including Overhead danger (W415), Delineators (D3) and
Traffic Cones and Drums (TD4) should be adopted.
2) The schedule may be extended in future by adopting additional signs consistent with SADC-
RTSM

Annex 3: Guidance Signs Schedule
Note: Colour of the background should be changed to conform to SADC-RTSM colour
code
SN Sign Description
B
u
r
u
n
d
i

K
e
n
y
a

R
w
a
n
d
a

T
a
n
z
a
n
i
a

(
U
R
T
)

U
g
a
n
d
a

R
e
m
a
r
k

1.

GFS B2-1
Workshop / Garage

Kenya to adopt,
2.

GFS B2-1
Filling Station

3.

GFS B4-1
Restaurant



4.

Refreshments

5

GFS B4-2
Refreshments

SADC sign.
Shall be used
with Sn. 4 above
8.

GFS B5-1
Parking

Others to adopt
9.

GFS B5-9
Facility for the
handicapped

Others to adopt
10.

Rest Area

Others to adopt
11

GFS B5-2
Toilets
Others to adopt
12

IN12
Information Centre
Others to adopt


13

GFS B6-3
Rest and Service Area
Others to adopt
14

GFS B4-3
Take Away
Others to adopt
15

GFS B3-1
Truck rest and service
area

16
GL4
River Name

Others to adopt
17

GFS B5-7
Picnic area

Others to adopt
18

GFS B5-9
Facility for the
physically challenged

Others to adopt
19 Adopt SADC-RTSM Guidance scheme for:
Location GL* Place and River names
Direction GD* Direction signs before and at junctions
Tourism GF* Directions to tourist attractions, services and facilities
Local Direction GDL* Direction signs for minor, local destinations in urban areas
Diagrammatic GS* Signs warning of changes in road layout ahead (e.g. start and finish of
climbing lanes)
*Sign number prefix


Annex 4: Information Signs Schedule
Typical examples of information signs proposed minimum schedule.
More signs may be adopted from the SADC-RTSM
Note: SN 1 to 3 Colour of the background should be changed to green to conform
to SADC-RTSM
S/N Sign Description
B
u
r
u
n
d
i

K
e
n
y
a

R
w
a
n
d
a

T
a
n
z
a
n
i
a

(
U
R
T
)

U
g
a
n
d
a

1.

IN4
No Through
Road (Cul-de-
sac)

2.

IN5
No Through
Road (Cul-de-
sac) Right Side

3.

IN6
No Through
Road (Cul-de-
sac) Left Side

4.

IN11.568
Example of
supplementary
plate for vehicle
class

5.

IN11.1
Example of
Supplementary
Plate - Advisory
Speed

6.
IN11.2
Example:
Supplementary
Plate - Distance
For



7.

IN11.3
Example:
Supplementary
Plate Distance
To

8.

IN11.4
Example:
Supplementary
Plate Text
Message

9.

IN11.502
IN11.502: Arrow
Left
IN11.503 Arrow
Right

10

IN20
Oncoming vehicle
are required to give
way

11

IN16
Bus Stop Ahead



Annex 5: Pavement Markings Schedule
S/No. Pavement Marking Direction and Recommendation for Use
1.

WM7.3
Lane Direction Arrow (ahead)
The arrow shall indicate the direction the
vehicles should continue with.
2.

WM7.1
Lane Direction Arrow left/right
The arrow shall reflect the direction vehicles
shall turn from the lane.
3.

WM7.2
Lane Direction Arrow (ahead and left or
ahead and right)
A combined arrow, not less than 3 metres
and not greater than 7.5 metres in length.
The arrow shall reflect the direction vehicles
are permitted to turn from the lane.
4.

GM7
Word Marking
Stop/Bus/Taxi/Slow Down
The word STOP/BUS/TAXI or any other
word as may be used in letters elongated in
the direction of traffic movement.
The marking is emphasizing the obligation
to stop or exclusive for buses, taxi and so
forth.
5.

Lane Line
The lane line separates traffics travelling in
the same direction.


GM1
6.

WM3

Dividing Line
This line is used to separate traffic moving
in opposite directions.
Traffic shall keep to the left of such line and
shall cross it only for the purpose of
overtaking another vehicle or making a right
turn into another roadway.
7.

RM1
No Overtaking Line
This imposes a mandatory requirement that
drivers keep to the left of the line unless
they are turning into or out of a side access.
8.

RM3
Channelizing Line (do not cross)
The lane line separates lanes of traffic
traveling in the same direction.
The Channelizing line should be applied if
the carriageway is divided into two or more
lanes for travel in the same direction and
traffic is not allowed to change lanes.
9.

WM2
Continuity Line
Traffic shall keep within lane margins and
shall only cross into another lane to comply
with any other traffic sign or signal, or when
it is safe to do so having regard to prevailing
traffic conditions.
10.

RM2
No Crossing Lines.
Where centre lines are installed, prohibition
of overtaking shall be indicated by a
continuous line in the direction that
overtaking is prohibited. Two continuous
lines shall indicate prohibition of overtaking
in both directions.
11.

Left Edge Line / Right Edge Line
The line shall mean that vehicles should
keep to the right or left of the line and not
cross or straddle the line.


12.

RTM1
Stop Line
Traffic shall stop at such line and, before
continuing, ascertain that there is no
oncoming traffic near enough to cause
danger or an accident.
13.

RTM2
Give Way Line.
Traffic shall, if necessary, stop at such line
and yield the right of way to any traffic
approaching from another roadway and
before continuing ascertains that there is no
oncoming traffic near enough to cause
danger or an accident.
14.

RTM4
Pedestrian Crossing (zebra) markings.
All traffic shall stop at the stop lines as
described if there is a pedestrian crossing
the road on the pedestrian crossing.
(RTM4 in SADC-RTSM uses yield line
instead of stop line commonly used in EAC
member states)
15.

RTM5.2
Channelizing Island Do not drive over the
marking except in emergency
16.



RTM5.1
17.

RTM5.3
18.

RTM6
Parking Bays
19.

RTM9
Exclusive Lane Line
Plus Word Marking
20.

RTM10
Box Junction
(Do not enter unless the exit is clear)
21.

RM17.1
Exclusive Use Lane Symbol
RM17.1 Bicycle
RM17.2 - Bus
22
More road markings should be adopted from the SADC-RTSM to meet the current needs of
the member states



Annex 6: Traffic Signal Indications in Use and their Meaning
S/No. Indication Meaning
1.

Steady Green signal
Traffic, except pedestrians, facing a CIRCULAR GREEN
(S1) or GREEN ARROW signal indication (S2, S3, S4)
may proceed straight through or turn right or left except as
such movement is modified by lane-use signs (for
example S1B sign for bus use lane), turn prohibition signs,
lane markings, or roadway design.

2.

Steady Yellow signal
Traffic, except pedestrians, facing a steady CIRCULAR
YELLOW or YELLOW ARROW signal indication is thereby
warned that the related green movement is being
terminated or that a red signal indication will be exhibited
immediately thereafter when vehicular traffic shall not
enter the intersection.
3.

Steady Red signal
Vehicular traffic facing a steady CIRCULAR RED signal
indication alone shall stop at a clearly marked stop line,
but if there is no stop line, traffic shall stop before entering
the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection; or if
there is no crosswalk, then before entering the
intersection, and shall remain stopped until a signal
indication to proceed is shown.

4.

Flashing signal
Flashing Yellow - When a YELLOW LENS is illuminated
with rapid intermittent flashes, vehicular traffic may
proceed through the intersection or past such signal


indication only with caution.
Flashing red - When a red lens is illuminated with rapid
intermittent flashes, vehicular traffic shall stop at a clearly-
marked stop line; but if there is no stop line, traffic shall
stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the
intersection; or if there is no crosswalk, at the point
nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a
view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway
before entering the intersection.
5.

Steady Arrows
When a left-turn green arrow is shown with a red light,
you may turn left from the left-turn lane.(S3)
When a right-turn green arrow is shown with a red
light, you may turn right from the right-turn lane (S2)
When a straight-through (green-arrow-up) green
arrow is shown with a red light, you may enter the
intersection from the straight-through lane (S4)

After the Right/left-turn or up green arrow, a yellow arrow
may appear. This means the green light is about to appear
for traffic in both directions. Do not start your left turn. Stop
if you can do so safely; otherwise, complete your
manoeuvre with caution.

6. Steady Red Pedestrian Figure
This is displayed to warn pedestrians not to step out onto


the road and should wait by the kerb.
7.

Green Walking Pedestrian Figure

This is displayed to pedestrians to indicate to them that
after checking that it is safe, they may cross the road.
8.

Flashing Red Pedestrian Figure

This is displayed to warn pedestrians not to step out onto
the road and should wait by the kerb, but should finish
crossing when already on the road.


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PREPARATION OF THE EAST AFRICAN TRANSPORT FACILITATION STRATEGY

BUREAU FOR INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION Chapter 7 page 1

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