Road Traffic Signs

Traffic signs are vital for maintaining safety and order on our roads, acting as a universal visual language for all road users. Without them, roads would be chaotic and unsafe. Their importance lies in three key areas:

Safety: Warning of hazards like curves, school zones, or crossings.
Regulation: Enforcing rules such as speed limits, stops, and parking restrictions.
Guidance: Helping drivers navigate routes, distances, and destinations.

By delivering clear instructions, traffic signs ensure safer, smoother journeys for everyone.

In Australia, road signs fall into three main categories:

Regulatory Signs: Show traffic laws that must be obeyed, such as speed limits or no U-turns.
Warning Signs: Alert drivers to hazards or changes ahead, like railway crossings or sharp curves.
Guide Signs: Provide directions, routes, and information on services or attractions.

Each type has a distinct design, making them easy to recognise and follow.

Australian road signs cover all driving conditions and fall into three categories:

Regulatory Signs: Stop/Give Way, Speed Limits, No Entry/No Parking, Keep Left/Right.
Warning Signs: Children Crossing, Slippery When Wet, Wildlife (Koala/Kangaroo) warnings.
Guide Signs: Directional signs to towns/landmarks, Route markers (e.g., M1, A20), Service signs for fuel, food, or rest areas.

In Australia, road signs must comply with AS 1742: Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). This standard defines everything from sign shape and colour to reflectivity and placement, ensuring consistency and safety nationwide.

For manufacturers, authorities, and contractors, compliance is essential - only signs that meet these requirements can be legally installed on public roads. At Tactile Systems, all our products are made to the full Australian Standards for quality and safety.

Mandatory signs give compulsory instructions that must be obeyed. A common example in Australia is the ‘Keep Left’ sign, shown as a blue circle with a white arrow. Placed on traffic islands or divided roads, it directs vehicles to pass on the left. Ignoring these signs can result in fines, making them vital for safe and consistent road use.

Guide signs help road users navigate with ease. Common examples include:

Distance & Destination Signs: Green signs showing towns, suburbs, and distances.
Route Markers: Shield-shaped signs identifying major roads (e.g., A1, M3).
Service Signs: Blue signs indicating fuel, hospitals, or other services.
Tourist Signs: Brown signs pointing to attractions and landmarks.

Warning signs, usually yellow and diamond-shaped, alert drivers to hazards or changing conditions. Common examples include:

Crossroads Ahead: Intersection ahead.
Winding Road: A Series of curves coming up.
Slippery When Wet: Reduced traction in rain.
Pedestrian Crossing: Be ready for pedestrians.
Wildlife Warning: Watch for kangaroos, koalas, or wombats.

To stay effective, traffic signs need regular inspections for:

Damage: Cracks, dents, or signs knocked over.
Fading: Reduced reflectivity, especially at night.
Obstructions: Trees, bushes, or objects blocking visibility.

Damaged signs should be replaced promptly. While our signs are built for durability, routine checks ensure they continue to meet safety standards.

Yes. Tactile Systems provides custom signage solutions tailored to your project needs. From private car parks to construction zones or new developments, we design and manufacture compliant, durable, and functional signs that fit your requirements. Contact our team today for a personalised quote.

Tactile Systems delivers durable, high-quality traffic signs that meet all Australian standards. From a single sign to complete custom signage projects, our products offer maximum visibility, reliability, and compliance. With competitive pricing and exceptional service, we’re the trusted choice for councils, contractors, and businesses nationwide. Ready to find the right safety solution for your project? Explore our range of TSA traffic road signs or get a quote today!