7. Further suggestions
7. Further suggestions
In addition to the main recommendations noted above the following suggestions have been made to prompt discussion amongst the road maintenance community.
a) The general perception is that there was no increase in
accidents using a sand/grit and salt mix but this would have to
independently verified. It is suggested that guidance is included
in an update to the "Well Maintained Highways document "
b) Most authorities receive salt stocks during late autumn. It
is suggested that consideration be given to earlier restocking to
avoid a supply delay at the start of the winter season
c) Where not already in place operatives should be trained to
the relevant winter accredited SVQ standard
The following recommendations may merit further considering and are included for discussion purposes.
a) Each roads authority with uncovered salt piles should
consider the financial, operational, salt conservation and
environmental benefits of moving covered storage
b) Consider reviewing medium term weather forecast and
communications with winter service providers and suppliers
c) Where resources permit consideration should be given to
employing a rota system of drivers on each treatment route to
ensure that frontline and snow backup vehicles can be utilised
during snow events to mitigate against falling foul of
Drivers’ Hours Regulations
d) Possible consideration could be given to exploring the
feasibility of implementing measures which other countries have
adopted such as:
- Legislating to require citizens to clear snow and ice from footways adjacent to their properties
- Closing a road before it becomes impassable in order to clear it and treat it
- Co-ordinating closure of public facilities at a local level.
- Making it illegal to park on roads when they are being cleared of snow and ice
- Requiring lorries to park in lay-bys when snow arrives to reduce the risk of either losing traction or ‘jack-knifing’ and coming to a halt, causing traffic delays