Recommendation Date
Recipient Name
Transit NZ
Text
Until the proposed "Code for Road Signs and Markings for Level Crossings" is ratified, he arrange for the presence of the railway level crossing 1 km north of Omihi be drawn to the attention of motorists by enhanced signage and/or road marking.
Reply Text
Upgrading of signage (was) undertaken in 1989/90. Subsequent to this, high intensity "railway crossing" signs (PW14) were erected on 10 January 1995.
Changes to be Implemented.
I have approved the following to enhance the railway level crossing conspicuity.
• review with NZ Rail the alignment of the flashing lights and adjust as necessary.
• install red backing boards to the "Railway Crossing" signs (PW-14) and adjust position of the northbound direction to maximise driver awareness; and
• paint the message "Rail X" on the road on either side of the crossing point, again ensuring adequate prior warning for drivers.
It is expected that this work will be completed by the end of August 1995.
Other points raised in your recommendation have been carefully considered and it is my intention to take up with the Land Transport Safety Authority progress on finalising the proposed "Code for Road Signs and Markings for Railway Level Crossings". I am reluctant to introduce changes relating to this new code on a one off basis as this may prove confusing for drivers who are only familiar with current practice. When the new code is introduced it will need to be implemented widely and be subject to publicity so that awareness of the changes is well understood.
Changes to be Implemented.
I have approved the following to enhance the railway level crossing conspicuity.
• review with NZ Rail the alignment of the flashing lights and adjust as necessary.
• install red backing boards to the "Railway Crossing" signs (PW-14) and adjust position of the northbound direction to maximise driver awareness; and
• paint the message "Rail X" on the road on either side of the crossing point, again ensuring adequate prior warning for drivers.
It is expected that this work will be completed by the end of August 1995.
Other points raised in your recommendation have been carefully considered and it is my intention to take up with the Land Transport Safety Authority progress on finalising the proposed "Code for Road Signs and Markings for Railway Level Crossings". I am reluctant to introduce changes relating to this new code on a one off basis as this may prove confusing for drivers who are only familiar with current practice. When the new code is introduced it will need to be implemented widely and be subject to publicity so that awareness of the changes is well understood.
Related Investigation(s)