that the running lane is clear of convoyed vehicles. Measures need to be included to ensure a fail-safe system to cover for eventualities such as inadequate radio reception, bad weather conditions and lack of clarity in the instructions between the traffic control supervisor and the works supervisor.
O9.1.13 The need for relief drivers should be considered, bearing in mind the nature of the work and the need for a high standard of awareness and concentration. Experience has shown that a change of driver every hour is desirable, especially when using a single convoy vehicle.
O9.1.14 It is essential that the public are made aware of the reasons for carrying out the convoy method, namely site safety, and the benefits to be gained from its use such as avoidance of diversionary routes, and minimising queue jumping. Wherever possible, the opportunity should be taken to use local newspapers, local radio and TV to inform the public of the method of working, and the benefits it has for the workforce and the travelling public.
O9.2LEGAL ISSUES
O9.2.1 Provided that a mandatory speed limit has been lawfully imposed and the traffic signals or manually operated "STOP/GO" boards are lawfully placed and operated, no other statutory authority for operating convoy working is required, since the driver of the convoy escort vehicle is merely exercising his legal right to proceed along the restricted length of road at a speed at or near the maximum permitted. Since there is no primary legislation which enables drivers of convoy escort vehicles to do anything which an ordinary driver cannot do, it is essential that a temporary mandatory speed limit is imposed as described in Section O9.6 in order to prevent these drivers from being accused of driving without due consideration for other road users or of causing an obstruction of the highway when travelling at a low speed.
O9.2.2 Convoy escort vehicle drivers should be instructed that they are not empowered to carry out manoeuvres other than those which any other driver could do. They should observe speed limits and comply with traffic signals or manually operated "STOP/GO" boards as other drivers are required to do. A convoy escort vehicle driver who breaks any traffic laws or drives in an unsafe manner could be prosecuted.
O9.2.3 The convoy vehicle must conform with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, and the Road Vehicle Lighting Regulations 1989, and must be fit to travel on the public highway in all respects, including having a vehicle excise licence and insurance.
O9.3VEHICLES
O9.3.1 This section deals with issues that specifically relate to convoy escort vehicles. General issues relating to vehicles used at work sites are dealt with in Section O5.
O9.3.2 Each vehicle driver should be in radio contact with the traffic signal (or manually operated "STOP/GO" board) operator, the traffic control supervisor and the works supervisor at all times.
O9.3.3 Convoy vehicles should have good all-round visibility and wing mirrors fitted on both sides. A tight turning circle can be particularly useful on single carriageways.
O9.3.4 Only four-wheel vehicles with drivers should be used. The vehicles should be capable of being driven at 10 mph or less through the length of the works for the duration of the contract, i.e. should be capable of travelling at low speeds without overheating. Diesel-engined vehicles have proved to be less prone to overheating than those with petrol engines. However, overheating problems in the latter can be overcome by fitting additional fans. The vehicle should be equipped with a speedometer capable of indicating 10 mph.
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