Posted By Peter Longworth Martin I work at quite a large site in the northwest where we have the following arrangements. A 5mph limit for all internal transport such as FLTs and pedestrian trucks. Around the perimeter we operate a one-way system with a 10mph speed limit for cars, delivery vans and LGVs. This is supplemented by speed ramps, chicanes and stop junctions. If you look at the HSE consultation document "Proposals for Managing Workplace Transport Risk" you may get some more info.

Posted By Ron Hunter As with public highways, such systems are not 100% self-regulating! Make sure there are adequate resources for 'policing' and a clear policy for dealing with non-conformance (including dealing with supplier/delivery drivers). Chicanes and sleeping policemen can introduce problems with harsher acceleration between obstacles, and are perhaps most effective when limited to entry/exit and other potential pedestrian/vehicle conflict zones? Your resources should of course be focussed initially on segregation of pedestrians and vehicles. I like the idea of an "odd" number displayed on highway type signs in the workplace (I can't remember where I first read this)to focus driver attention, e.g. "13 mph".

Posted By Peter Longworth Ron You're quite correct they aren't self regulating. What we initially did was to contact all of our suppliers informing them of our new arrangements well in advance of their introduction. We also briefed all employees and expressly asked them to report all instances of speeding or reckless driving to either security or to their line managers. The drivers were stopped on the way out and warned that their employers would be contacted. This happened on a number of occasions with one instance of a delivery driver being banned from site. We still get the occasional driver who is reported but this is now quite rare. With regard to segregation, we have designated walkways and separate traffic routes in all areas of the factory, with crossing points, barriers etc. Pedestrians have right of way in all areas. Toecap, we find we don't need laser's, good training, monitoring and management usually does the trick.

Posted By Peter Longworth You've no idea how much of a relief that is. A sleepless night avoided.

Posted By Martin Taylor thanks for all the comments so far - I especially like the idea of using CCTV for monitoring offenders. What about the speed limit though - I see 5 mph posted in many areas nowadays but is there any science behind it? Is the risk of accident significantly reduced by reducing speed from 10 mph? What is the most poular speed? Martin

Posted By Ken Taylor In reality, drivers tend to drive in excess of whatever speed limit is stated on the signs. By saying 5mph you will probably get around 10mph and if you say 10mph you will get 15mph or so. At least by erecting the signs you will be seen as attempting to control vehicle speed rather than allowing a free-for-all and perceived as having some responsibility for an ensuing speed-related incident. Speed limits in single figures will tend to make the point that there is a real need to drive slowly and cautiously.