Reading Borough Council has hailed a significant improvement in the safety of its highways crews after successfully integrating Solar Gates UK’s INSTABOOM Go system into its traffic operations department.
Solar Gates UK described the system as a 'lightweight, solar-powered, remote-controlled Stop:Go solution', which it said is the first of its kind in the UK market.
It pointed out that traditional methods of traffic control at static sites or emergency works have long exposed operatives to live traffic and that Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual and the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice recommend using remotely controlled Stop:Go boards wherever possible.
The company said the software it has developed ensures that the signs are permanently connected by two independent radio channels, preventing the possibility of more than one Go signal. This allows operatives to position themselves safely while maintaining line of sight over a 200-metre setup.
Reading Borough Council deployed the system in February, following initial training for all crews. The units have since been used for pothole repairs, emergency works and road traffic crash assistance with the police.
Using the new technology quickly became part of the daily routines, the council said, initially using two operatives, which was soon reduced to one.
Highways and traffic services manager Sam Shean said: ‘We have been using the INSTABOOM Go for several months now, and the improvement in the safety of our crews has been significant.
‘Ensuring the safety of our employees and the public while they manage roadworks and other infrastructure projects is a top priority. The INSTABOOM Go has proven to be a reliable and efficient solution for our needs.’
A case study, documenting the successful implementation and benefits of the INSTABOOM Go system, was launched last week at the LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival 2024.
Solar Gates said INSTABOOM Go boasts several innovative features:
- Solar Powered - Operates continuously in direct sunlight and for up to two weeks without sun.
- Remote Control - Allows up to four signs to be controlled by a single operative from a safe distance, using robust software that prevents simultaneous Go signals.
- Quick Setup - Each unit, weighing just 22kg, can be set up in under a minute.
- Safety and Efficiency - Operatives can control traffic from a secure location, reducing exposure to moving vehicles.
