AP-C87-15 - Austroads Glossary of Terms (2015 Edition)

Austroads Glossary of Terms
Prepared By
MG Lay Library, ARRB Group
Publisher
Abstract
Austroads Ltd.
Level 9, 287 Elizabeth Street
Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
Phone: +61 2 8265 3300
austroads@austroads.com.au
www.austroads.com.au
The Austroads Glossary of Terms provides an A-Z list of

more than 3,000 road transport terms with definitions.
About Austroads
Previous editions prepared by MG Lay Library,

Peter Milne, and Kieran Sharp
The Glossary of Terms was developed to bring consistency

to the use of terms and definitions by Austroads members
and other stakeholders in the road and transport industry. It
also helps users of Austroads publications by providing
supporting information for the terms used in the Austroads
body of work.
This 2015 edition not only includes new terms selected
from Austroads work published in 2014, but also
incorporates two related works: the Roads and Maritime
Services ITS Glossary of Maintenance Terms and
Definitions, and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator
Glossary of Common Terms.
Austroads purpose is to:
promote improved Australian and New Zealand transport

outcomes
provide expert technical input to national policy development on

road and road transport issues
promote improved practice and capability by road agencies

promote consistency in road and road agency operations.
Second edition July 2008
Austroads membership comprises the six state and two territory

road transport and traffic authorities, the Commonwealth
Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the
Australian Local Government Association, and NZ Transport
Agency. Austroads is governed by a Board consisting of the chief
executive officer (or an alternative senior executive officer) of each
of its eleven member organisations:
Third edition December 2008
Roads and Maritime Services New South Wales
Fourth edition April 2010
Roads Corporation Victoria
Fifth edition July 2014
Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland
Sixth edition August 2015
Main Roads Western Australia
First published February 2008
Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure South

ISBN 978-1-925294-63-7
Austroads Publication No. AP-C87-15
Published August 2015
Pages 177
Australia
Department of State Growth Tasmania

Department of Transport Northern Territory
Territory and Municipal Services Directorate, Australian Capital
Territory
Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Regional

Austroads Ltd 2015
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted
under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced
by any process without the prior written permission of
Austroads.
Development
Australian Local Government Association

New Zealand Transport Agency.
The success of Austroads is derived from the collaboration of
member organisations and others in the road industry. It aims to
be the Australasian leader in providing high quality information,
advice and fostering research in the road transport sector.
This report has been prepared for Austroads as part of its work to promote improved Australian and New Zealand transport
outcomes by providing expert technical input on road and road transport issues.
Individual road agencies will determine their response to this report following consideration of their legislative or administrative
arrangements, available funding, as well as local circumstances and priorities.
Austroads believes this publication to be correct at the time of printing and does not accept responsibility for any consequences
arising from the use of information herein. Readers should rely on their own skill and judgement to apply information to particular
issues.
Austroads Glossary of Terms
Introduction
The Austroads Glossary of Terms was developed to bring consistency to the use of terms and definitions by
Austroads members and other stakeholders in the road and transport industry. It also helps users of
Austroads publications by providing supporting information for the terms used in the Austroads body of work.
In originally developing this Glossary, a large number of reference documents were sourced from Australia,
New Zealand and internationally. However, emphasis was placed on terms and definitions applicable to
Australia and New Zealand. A reference list of source material was included in all previous editions of the
Glossary.
For this sixth edition, around 60 new terms have been sourced from research reports, technical reports, and
guides produced by Austroads during the 2014 calendar year. Also incorporated with permission are more
than 400 terms from two related works: the Roads and Maritime Services ITS Glossary of Maintenance
Terms and Definitions, and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Glossary of Common Terms. Terms and/or
definitions from these two works are indicated by the following: (RMS ITS) and (NHVR).
Feedback and suggestions are welcomed, email Austroads at austroads@austroads.com.au
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see anti-lock (brake system). These terms are linked and clicking on them will take you to the relevant
definition.
Austroads 2015 | page i
Term
Definition
A-dolly
see converter dolly
A-double
A multi-combination vehicle composed of a prime mover, a semi-trailer and

either a converter dolly and a second semi-trailer or a full trailer attached to
the first semi-trailer from a single hitch located on the centreline of the first
semi-trailer.
A-triple
A multi-combination vehicle consisting of a prime mover towing three semitrailers connected with converter dollies.
A-type coupling (NHVR)
A drawbar-based coupling type. This coupling type does not transfer roll or,
generally speaking, load between the vehicle units.
AADT
see annual average daily traffic
abrasion
The wearing away of a solid surface by mechanical action.
abrasion resistance
The ability of a material to resist abrasion.
ABS
see anti-lock (brake system)
absolute maximum
A dimension above which the treatment cannot be used under any

circumstances.
absorption
The penetration of binder into an aggregate or base pavement.
absorption capacity
The maximum rate at which a traffic stream can absorb additional vehicles.
abutment
An end support of a bridge or similar structure.
ACAS
see automotive collision avoidance system
accelerated loading facility

(ALF)
A mobile loading frame which applies power-driven rolling wheel loads to

sections of pavement in a manner which simulates the characteristics of
traffic and which is used to study the response of the pavement to this
loading.
accelerated pavement
testing
The controlled application of a prototype wheel loading, at or above the

appropriate legal load limit to a prototype or actual, layered, structural
pavement system to determine pavement response and performance under
a controlled, accelerated, accumulation of damage in a compressed time
period.
acceleration capability
The ability of a vehicle to accelerate either from rest or to increase speed

on a road with no grade.
acceleration lane
An auxiliary lane used to allow vehicles to increase speed without

interfering with the main traffic stream. It is often used on the departure
side of intersections.
accelerator
A chemical additive that increases the rate of attainment of strength of a

Portland cement concrete mix.
acceptable maximum
A dimension that is at the upper limit of acceptable dimensions and above

which the treatment can only be used in certain conditions and which may
be associated with certain precautions e.g. signage.
acceptable minimum
A dimension that is at the lower limit of acceptable dimensions and below

which the treatment can only be used in certain conditions and which may
be associated with certain precautions e.g. signage.
The point in the development lifecycle of system at which the system being
developed is thoroughly validated prior to proceeding with system
operation.
acceptance (RMS ITS)
Austroads 2015 | page 1
Term
Definition
access
The driveway by which vehicles and/or pedestrians enter and/or leave

property adjacent to a road.
access control
1.
To prevent vehicles and people crossing property lines by means of

barriers or regulations.
2.
To give vehicles and people access at predetermined locations.
access driveway
A road or driveway extending from the edge of the frontage road to the
property boundary to connect with the first ramp, service area, circulation
roadway or aisle encountered, and carrying one or two-way traffic.
accessibility index
Value obtained as a function of an accessibility measure constrained to a

specified range of values.
accessibility measure
A measure of the ease with which activities can be reached from a location
using a particular transport system. Note: The appropriate form of measure
will depend on its intended use. In particular, activities that can be reached
might be taken as all-supplied activities or only those actually chosen, that
is revealed choices. For example, the sum of the number of activities that
can be reached from a location, weighted according to the impedance of
travelling between the location and each activity.
accessible entrance
An entrance to a facility or establishment served by a car park, suitable for

pedestrian or wheelchair use by people with disabilities.
accessible travel path
An uninterrupted path of travel to or within a building providing pedestrian

or wheelchair access for people with disabilities from a parking space to all
required facilities.
access street
A street whose main function is to provide access to a small number of

residential units.
access time
see travel time
access way
A private road or local street serving very low traffic volumes, whose design
need not be dominated by traffic considerations.
accident
see crash
accreditation certificate
a) for a heavy vehicle accreditation granted under the Heavy Vehicle

National Law, the accreditation certificate given for the accreditation; or
(NHVR)
b) for a heavy vehicle accreditation granted under another law of a

participating jurisdiction, the certificate of accreditation issued for the
accreditation under that law.
An accreditation certificate for a heavy vehicle accreditation must state the
following:
a) the name of the operator who has been granted the accreditation;
b) the number identifying the accreditation;
c) any conditions imposed on the accreditation by the Regulator;
d) for an AFM accreditation, the maximum work times and minimum rest
times that apply to drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles operating
under the accreditation;
e) the period for which the accreditation applies.
accumulated depreciation
1.
The part of the original cost of a non-current asset which has been treated
as an expense in successive profit and loss accounts.
2.
A measure of the loss of service potential of an asset since the asset was
acquired or constructed.
Term
Definition
achieved availability
Measure of availability that takes into account all maintenance actions
(RMS ITS)
(both corrective and preventative) that will be required to maintain the

system.
Mathematically the achieved availability is defined as follows:
Achieved availability = MTBM
____________________
MTBM + MCMT + MPMT
Where:
MTBM = Mean Time Between Maintenance
MCMT = Mean Corrective Maintenance Time
MPMT = Mean Preventative Maintenance Time
Also see availability, inherent availability, and operational availability.
acidic aggregate
Aggregate having a silica content of more than 65% and showing free
quartz crystals.
acidic soil
A soil having a pH value less than 7.0.
acid sulphate soils
1.
Soils formed as a result of exposure of pyrite (iron sulphite) in soil to

oxygen. When water passes through such soils acidic water is produced.
2.
Soils containing iron sulfides which, when exposed to oxygen, generate

sulphuric acid.
ACN
see automatic crash notification
active travel
Physical activity, such as walking or cycling, for the purpose of transport.

Also known as 'active transport'.
active warning device
A device which changes state to display a warning of a hazard.
activity centres
An urban planning term for a location typically characterised by mixed land

use with a concentration of public transport, pedestrian and cycling access.
Activity Centres cluster economic and social activities for the benefit of the
community, the economy and the environment.
Also see transit oriented development (TOD).
actuated control
see traffic-actuated control
actuation
The electrical action produced by a vehicle (on a vehicle detector) or

pedestrian or bicycle rider (on a push button switch) to enable the controller
to recognise its presence.
adaptive cruise control

(ACC)
Technology used to maintain a constant safe gap to the vehicle in front

while driving.
adaptive engineering
see controller programming
adaptive traffic control

system
These systems respond automatically to fluctuations in traffic flow through

the use of on-street detectors embedded in the road.
ADAS
see advanced driver assistance systems
added filler (silt)
Mineral matter, suitable for use in asphalt at least 75% of which is finer
than 75 mm and all of which is finer that 600 mm which is added to the
combined aggregate of an asphalt mix. Typical materials include hydrated
lime, flyash, cement, cement works flue dust, ground limestone and rock
dust other than that which occurs as a natural component of the combined
aggregate.
additive
A substance added in small amounts for the purpose of aiding in the

manufacture or handling of a product or modifying the end properties.
Term
Definition
adhesion
The action by means of which a fluid or plastic substance (e.g. bituminous

binder) sticks to the surface of a solid body (e.g. aggregate).
adhesion agent
A substance used for the purpose of improving the adhesion between a

bituminous binder and the aggregate. The term generally refers to
adhesion in the presence of water.
adjusted structural number

(SNP)
A pavement strength parameter, being an enhancement of the modified

structural number (SNC), developed to address difficulties experienced with
the use of SNC for the description of pavements which incorporate lower
layers of selected subgrade, or which have very thick subbase or lower
subbase layers. The SNP applies a weighting factor, which reduces with
increasing depth, to the subbase and subgrade contributions so that the
pavement strength for deep pavements is not over-predicted. For
pavements less than 700 mm thick the modified structural number (SNC)
and the adjusted structural number (SNP) are virtually the same.
administrative sanction
Generally, any formal official imposition of penalty or fine; destruction,

taking, seizure, or withholding of property; assessment of damages,
reimbursement, restitution, compensation, costs, charges or fees;
requirement, revocation or suspension of license; and taking other
compulsory or restrictive action by organization, agency or its
representative.
admixture
see Modified Structural Number (SNC) and Structural Number (SN)
ADR
see Australian Design Rules
adsorption
The attachment of a bituminous binder to the surface of an aggregate or

soil by molecular forces.
ADT
see average daily traffic
ADT count
The average daily number of vehicle/axle counts measured at a count

station.
ADT station
A traffic-measuring device installed at a specific location.
advanced driver assistance

systems (ADAS)
Systems designed to help the driver with the driving task e.g. in-vehicle
navigation systems and collision warning systems.
advance direction sign
A sign placed on an approach to, and in advance of, an intersection,

junction or interchange, indicating the direction of routes and destinations
beyond the intersection, junction or interchange.
advanced traffic
management system
(ATMS)
ATMS are based on the integration of sensors, communication tools and

computer systems, and incorporate many individual systems e.g. vehicle
actuated traffic signals (that use sensor and control technology to adjust
signal timing to the flow of traffic) and automated toll systems that use
smart cards and vehicle detection devices to reduce stopping times and
increase efficiency.
advance warning sign
see warning sign
advance warning signals
An active warning device consisting of a warning sign with alternating

flashing yellow displays to warn approaching drivers of their imminent
arrival at a traffic signal installation or of a hazard on, or adjacent to, the
road ahead.
advance warning vehicle
A vehicle used at the tail of mobile works to provide advance warning of the
works to following traffic, to divert traffic around the work area and to
enable the driver to alert workers ahead of any impending danger; also
referred to as a tail vehicle.
Term
Definition
advanced fatigue
management (AFM) (NHVR)
For an operator of a heavy vehicle, means the operators management

system for ensuring compliance with the AFM standards and business
rules, including by:
a) recording the name, current driver licence number and contact details of
each driver who is currently operating under the operators AFM
accreditation; and
b) ensuring each of the drivers is in a fit state:
to safely perform required duties; and
to meet any specified medical requirements; and
c) ensuring each of the drivers:
has been inducted into the system; and
has been informed of the AFM hours applying under the operators
AFM accreditation; and
d) ensuring anyone employed in the operators business, who has
responsibilities relating to scheduling or managing the fatigue of the
drivers:
has been informed of the AFM hours applying under the operators
AFM accreditation.
adverse crossfall
A slope on a curved pavement that generates forces detracting from the

ability of a vehicle to maintain a circular path.
advisory speed
The recommended maximum speed at which a section of roadway should

be negotiated for comfort and safety.
advisory speed sign
Advisory speed signs are a category of warning sign. They are therefore
yellow and diamond shaped with black writing displaying the advisory
speed for an upcoming section of roadway.
Also see advisory speed.
afflux
The rise in water level on the upstream side of a constriction in a stream or

channel relative to the water level on the downstream side.
AFM
see advanced fatigue management
age hardening
A decrease in the penetration and/or increase in viscosity of a bituminous

binder caused by loss of volatiles and oxidation of the binder resulting from
exposure to weather over a period of time.
age to date
The number of years from the immediate post construction or

rehabilitation/replacement of the pavement to a given date.
aggregate
A material composed of discrete mineral particles of specified size or size

distribution, produced from sand, gravel, rock or metallurgical slag, using
one or more of the following processes: selective extraction, screening,
blasting or crushing.
aggregate breakdown
The disintegration of an aggregate under environmental and/or trafficking

conditions.
aggregate crushing value

(ACV)
An indication of the resistance to crushing of an aggregate.
aggregate model
1.
A mathematical model of travel behaviour related to a grouping of individual

travel characteristics, usually for a zone or district
2.
A combination of disaggregate models for the purpose of preparing

estimates for future states.
Term
Definition
aggregate retention
Long term cohesion and retention of aggregate after adhesion is

established.
aggregate spread rate
The rate of application of sealing aggregate, expressed in square metres

per cubic metre (m2/m3) of aggregate applied at the loose bulk density in
the truck.
aggregate trailer mass

(ATM) (NHVR)
Of a heavy trailer, means the total maximum mass of the trailer, as stated
by the manufacturer together with its load and the mass imposed on the
towing vehicle by the trailer when the towing vehicle and trailer are on a
horizontal surface.
agitator (concrete)
agricultural combination
1.
An item of plant or equipment which is used to mix, transport and maintain

the plastic concrete until it is discharged.
2.
Consistent with common usage, this term is also used (for convenience) in
lieu of mobile batch mixer.
A combination consisting of at least one agricultural vehicle.
(NHVR)
agricultural implement
(NHVR)
A vehicle without its own automotive power, built to perform agricultural

tasks, and includes an agricultural trailer.
Examples:
Auger
Conveyor
Field bin
Harvester front
Irrigating equipment or machinery
agricultural machine (NHVR)
A vehicle with its own automotive power, built to perform agricultural tasks.
Examples:
Harvester
Tractor
agricultural trailer (NHVR)
A trailer that is designed to carry a load and used exclusively to perform

agricultural tasks, but does not include a semitrailer.
agricultural vehicle (NHVR)
An agricultural implement or agricultural machine.
AI
see artificial intelligence
AID
see automatic incident detection
airbag
An airbag rapidly inflates in a collision to provide a cushion against hard

objects. Includes interior objects such as steering wheels, and exterior
vehicle interactions such as with a pedestrian or cyclist.
air-entraining agent
An admixture which causes minute bubbles of air to be incorporated in a

mix to improve workability and/or frost resistance.
air suspension system
A suspension system in which vertical movement between each axle and

the body of the vehicle is controlled by variations in air pressure in an air
spring and the proportion of the vehicles mass borne by the air spring
remains substantially constant despite variations in pressure in the air
spring.
air voids (voids)
The spaces within the bulk of a material not occupied by solid matter.
aisle
An area used by vehicles to gain access to, and to manoeuvre into and out
of parking or service bays.
Term
Definition
alarm (RMS ITS)
A notification means (visible, audible, haptic, etc.) alerting an operator of

an abnormal state or error that requires acknowledge or acceptance.
Also see false alarm rates (FAR).
ALCAM
see Australian Level Crossing Assessment Model
alcohol hours
High-alcohol hours correspond to the hours in the week in which crash

statistics indicate most drink-driving takes place and low-alcohol hours
represent the remaining hours in the week. Typical high-alcohol hours are
night-time, for example, between 9 pm and 4 am, but hours vary between
jurisdictions and for different days of the week.
alcohol ignition interlock
see alcohol interlock
alcohol interlock
An alcohol interlock is a small, hand-held breath-testing device fitted to a

vehicle's ignition. The driver must blow into the interlock before attempting
to start the vehicle. If the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is higher than
the pre-set level, the vehicle will not start. In addition to preventing the
vehicle from starting, the interlock may record data on the use of the
vehicle and any attempts to circumvent the interlock, such as roll starting.
algorithm
see controller algorithm
alignment
The geometric form of the centreline (or other reference line) of a

carriageway in both the horizontal and vertical directions.
alignment coordination
A road design technique that considers the relationship of the horizontal

and vertical alignments and its influence on safety and the threedimensional aspect of the finished carriageway.
alkali-aggregate reactivity
(reaction)
A chemical reaction in concrete between alkalis from Portland cement and

siliceous minerals in some aggregates. Deleterious expansion of the
concrete may occur.
alkaline soil
A soil having a pH value greater than 7.0.
alliance contracting
A form of contract partnership or risk sharing taken on by the client and

contracting entity for the common good of all parties.
all-red interval
A period of time for the clearance of conflicting movements within the

controlled area, during which only red aspects are illuminated for conflicting
movements.
all-red period
see all-red interval
ambient noise level
The normal or existing level of environmental noise at a given location and

time. It is a composite of noise from all sources.
amenity
Relates to the preservation of such characteristics of a neighbourhood,

which make it pleasing to both the passer-by as well as to the resident.
analysis area
An area or any group of zones that are combined for the purpose of making
an analysis.
ANCAP
Australasian New Car Assessment Program
ancillary/own transport
Transportation undertaken by an organisation of goods they have produced

or for their own use, where their main business is not transportation of such
goods. This would include transportation by farmers, manufacturers and
retail organisations of goods for their own use.
angle of repose
The angle with the horizontal assumed by the sloping face of a mass of
loose material.
anionic bitumen emulsion
A binder material in which the suspended particles are negatively charged.
Term
Definition
anisotropic (material)
A material which has properties that vary in different directions.
ANN
see artificial neural network
annual average daily traffic

(AADT)
The total volume of traffic passing a roadside observation point over the
period of a calendar year, divided by the number of days in that year (365
or 366 days).
annual average weekday

traffic (AAWT)
The average 24 hour traffic volume on weekdays throughout a 12 month

period, at a specific observation point.
ANPR
see automatic number plate recognition
anti-foaming agent
A substance (e.g. silicone oil) added to bitumen to reduce the surface tension
and hence the frothing tendency of hot bitumen in the presence of water.
anti-lock (brake system)
The portion of a brake system that automatically controls the degree of

rotational wheel slip relative to the road at one or more road wheels of the
vehicle during braking.
apparent particle density
The mass of a dry particle of aggregate in air divided by its volume,

including all voids.
application (NHVR)
A means to apply for Regulator services through a structured process

utilising prescribed forms and formats. May incur an application fee and
subsequent costs may be associated.
Examples are accreditation (NHVAS) and permit requests.
Not be confused with a software application.
Application programming
interface (API)
Specifies how software components should interact with each other. In

practice, most often an API is a library that includes specifications for
routines, data structures, object classes, and variables.
application rate
The amount of material (usually binder) applied to a given area of road

surface. Binder application rate is expressed as litres per square metre
(L/m2), usually expressed at 15 oC. Aggregate application rate is expressed
as square metres per cubic metre (m2/m3).
application vehicle
A vehicle that is applying for access to a bridge. Application vehicles can

be diverse in their design and configuration and represent real vehicles on
the road.
Also see reference vehicle.
approach
That section of road, consisting of one or more lanes, used by vehicles

approaching an intersection or mid-block site.
approach curve
A road curve used on the approach to a roundabout, upstream of the entry

curve.
approaches (bridge)
A relatively short length of carriageway leading up to a bridge, including

embankment, pavement and safety barriers.
approach nose
The end of an island, median or separator, or area between diverging

carriageways, which faces approaching traffic.
approach section(s)
(concrete)
A pavement located within 15 m of a bridge (or other structure) where

the concrete base is discontinuous, or within a specified distance
(generally 15 m) of contract limits.
approach sight distance

(ASD)
Stopping distance measured from the drivers eye height to pavement level
on approach to an at-grade intersection. In respect to pedestrian facilities,
the stopping sight distance, measured to the road surface, required on the
roadway approaches to an at-grade pedestrian crossing.
Term
Definition
approach slab
A reinforced concrete slab supported on the abutment curtain wall and the
approach fill.
approach speed
The representative speed (usually taken as the 85th percentile) of traffic

approaching a site.
approach width
The one-way width of the carriageway on the approach to the roundabout.
approval (NHVR)
This is used as a catch-all term for approvals made by the Regulator or

other authorising bodies. Approvals include all permits, notices, enrolments
and registrations.
approved form
(NHVR)
approved sleeper berth

(NHVR)
A form approved by the Regulator under the Heavy Vehicle National Law
and used to make applications or provide notifications to the Regulator e.g.
for amendment or cancellation of an exemption, or used to provide
certifications, notices etc. issued by or on behalf of the Regulator.
a) for a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle other than a fatigue-regulated bus,
a drivers sleeper berth that complies with ADR 42 and is able to be used
by the driver when resting; or
b) for a fatigue-regulated bus, a drivers sleeper berth that:
complies with a standard for sleeper berths that is approved by the
responsible Ministers under Heavy Vehicle National Law s654; and
is able to be used by the driver when resting
apron
The manoeuvring area in front of the service loading dock excluding the
service bay.
aquaplaning
A condition occurring on a wet road when the tyres of a moving vehicle lose
contact with the road surface and ride on a film of water.
area parking control
A form of parking control where signage is used to delineate an area by

signposting the entries and exits rather than by signposting individual
lengths of kerb with linear parking control signs.
area traffic control (ATC)
A traffic control method in which traffic signals in a network are

co-ordinated to minimise delay and stops.
area traffic control system

(ATCS)
A computer system which implements area traffic control.
armourcoat (armour plate)
The incorporation of a crushed rock or a small size aggregate into the top
of a soft base to tighten up and strengthen the surface.
arrester bed
An area of land adjacent to the road filled with a particulate material to

decelerate and stop out-of-control vehicles; generally located on long steep
descending gradients (see emergency escape ramp).
arrival rate
The rate at which vehicles arrive at a facility, e.g. traffic signal, parking
station, toll gate.
arrow aspect
Arrow symbol on a traffic signal face capable of being illuminated at a given

time.
arrow-controlled turn
A left turn or right turn movement at a signalised intersection that is made

with a green arrow display, and therefore is unopposed (see unopposed
turn, full control, partial control).
arterial demand
A feature of traffic signal controllers whereby a permanent demand is

placed for a particular phase or signal group (see recall feature).
arterial road
A road that predominantly carries through traffic from one region to

another, forming principal avenues of travel for traffic movements.
Term
Definition
arterial road (rural)
A general term for the main road carrying mostly long-distance traffic, as
distinct from local traffic.
arterial road (urban)
A general term for a main traffic route, but specifically referring to certain
streets so designated in a local authoritys district scheme.
articulated bus (NHVR)
A bus with two or more rigid sections connected to one another in a way
that allows passenger access between the sections rotary movement
between the sections.
articulated vehicle
A vehicle with two or more units attached either permanently or in a

removable manner that is able to rotate around the coupling points.
articulation point (NHVR)
The point(s) from which a vehicle will articulate during a turning

manoeuvre. The legal definition for front articulation point can be found in
section 3 of the Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National
Regulation.
artificial intelligence (AI)
Involves the science and engineering of making intelligent machines,

especially intelligent computer programs.
artificial neural network

(ANN)
Artificial neural networks are non-linear statistical data modelling tools.

They can be used to model complex relationships between inputs and
outputs or to find patterns in data.
aspect
A single optical system (circular, arrow, or symbolic) on a signal face

capable of being illuminated at a given time. Red, yellow, green and white
aspects are used for vehicle movements (see pedestrian aspects, bicycle
aspect, special vehicle aspects, lantern).
aspect signal indication
That portion of the optical system on a traffic signal head (e.g. red circle,
green arrow) illuminated or displayed at any one time.
asphalt
A mixture of bituminous binder and aggregate with or without mineral filler,

produced hot in a mixing plant, which is delivered, spread and compacted
while hot. In the US, the term asphalt can also mean bituminous binder.
Also see high modulus asphalt, stone mastic asphalt, fine gap graded
asphalt.
asphaltenes
Constituents of bitumen soluble in carbon disulphide, but insoluble in

aromatic-free low-boiling petroleum spirit, such as n-heptane.
asphalt pavement
A pavement, the predominant structural strength of which is provided by

asphalt layers.
assembly (RMS ITS)
A set of components that are collected together to form a complete entity.
assessed dimension (NHVR)
The measured dimension of the vehicle minus the appropriate dimension

measurement adjustment (DMA).
assessed mass (NHVR)
The measured mass of the vehicle minus the appropriate mass

measurement adjustment (MMA).
assessment
The technical process of identifying the outcomes of a particular action or

proposal, compared with their intentions or objectives (cf. evaluation).
asset
A physical component of a road system or network. An asset is considered

worthy of separate identification if it delivers services or benefits to the
community of sufficient current or future value to warrant control and
management on an individual basis. Typical assets include sections of
pavements, bridges, culverts, traffic signals, signs, road furniture, road
reserves, etc.
asset class (RMS ITS)
A grouping of assets that have the same or similar characteristics,

functions and / or behaviour.
Term
Definition
asset inventory
A list of assets considered worthy of identification as discrete assets, with

information such as location, design standard, construction date,
maintenance history, configuration, condition, and technical details.
asset management
A systematic process of effectively maintaining, upgrading and operating

assets, combining engineering principles with sound business practice and
economic rationale, and providing the tools to facilitate a more organised
and flexible approach to making decisions necessary to deliver optimal
community benefits.
Also see Total Asset Management (TAM).
asset management
strategy
A corporate statement of a medium to long term goal for the

comprehensive maintenance of a group of assets (e.g. road network),
supported by processes for the development and implementation of plans
and programs for asset creation, operation, maintenance,
rehabilitation/replacement, disposal and performance monitoring to ensure
that the desired levels of service and other operational objectives are
achieved at a minimum cost.
assigned dimension (NHVR)
Any prescribed dimension limit under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, the
national Regulations or as per a Notice or Permit.
assigned mass (NHVR)
Any prescribed mass limit under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, the
national Regulations or as per a Notice or Permit.
ATC
see area traffic control
ATCS
see area traffic control system
at-grade crossing
Crossing at the same level, such as a railway crossing that is at the same
level as a road, or a normal road intersection.
ATMS
see advanced traffic management system
Atterberg limit(s)
A set of arbitrarily defined boundary conditions in soils related to water

content. The limits are as follows:
Liquid limit: the moisture content at which a soil passes from the liquid
state to the plastic state, as determined by a specific test procedure.
Plastic limit: the moisture content at which a soil passes from the plastic
state to the semi-solid state, as determined by a specific test procedure.
Shrinkage limit: the moisture content from which a soil will continue to
dry out without further change in volume.
attitude
Attitudes are positive, negative or neutral views of an "attitude object": i.e. a

person, behaviour or event. Attitudes can be strong predictors of behaviour,
but behaviour is also moderated by other internal and external factors.
attraction
see trip production and trip attraction
audio-tactile paving
Raised or specifically textured strips typically installed on the edge line (or
in some cases centreline), generating noise and vibrations through vehicles
in order to alert drivers that they are leaving their lane, and encouraging
them to return to their lane.
audit
A systematic inspection or checking of methods employed in carrying out

an activity.
AusRAP
Australian Road Assessment Program
Australian Design Rule

(ADR) (NHVR)
A national standard under section 7 of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act

1989 of the Commonwealth.
Term
Definition
Australian Height Datum
A level datum, uniform throughout Australia, based on an origin determined

from observations of mean sea level at tide gauge stations, located at more
than 30 points along the Australian coastline
Australian Level Crossing

Assessment Model
(ALCAM)
An assessment tool designed to prioritise level crossing safety

improvement works, as well as assisting in the determination of the most
effective treatment at the site.
Austroads
The association of Australian and New Zealand road transport and traffic
agencies whose purpose is to contribute to the achievement of improved
road transport outcomes.
authorised officer (NHVR)
a) a police officer declared by a law of a participating jurisdiction to be an

authorised officer for the purposes of the law of a participating
jurisdiction; or
b) a person who holds office under the law of a participating jurisdiction as
an authorised officer
authority (NHVR)
A form or expression of delegated power. In the context of the Heavy

Vehicle National Law (HVNL), the term has a number of definitions, for
instance mass and dimension authority is the highest order definition in
the HVNL Part 4 encompassing both:
Mass or dimension exemptions (notices and permits); and
Class 2 heavy vehicle authorisations (notices and permits).
Also commonly used in the context of road authorities, such as VicRoads
or RMS.
automatic coupling
The coupling of rolling stock together without manual assistance. This

generally takes the form of mechanical coupling to convey drawbar forces
but can include both electrical and pneumatic coupling of passenger
vehicles, the action of which is completed by bringing the units together but
uncoupling requires some additional action such as lifting an uncoupling rod.
automatic crash notification

(ACN)
Designed to automatically notify a central location (e.g. emergency

services) of moderate to severe frontal, rear or side-impact vehicle crashes.
Strategically placed sensors relay crash severity information and metrics to
assist in determining the appropriate emergency personnel, equipment and
medical facility support needed.
automatic incident
detection (AID)
These systems use algorithms to analyse traffic data and quickly detect
incidents so as to reduce their adverse effects.
automatic leveller
A system to control automatically the longitudinal and transverse profile of

the material being spread by a paving machine, grader or milling machine, etc.
automatic number plate

recognition (ANPR)
Optical character recognition software is used to convert images of vehicle

registration numbers into information for real time or retrospective matching
with law enforcement and other databases.
automatic traffic count
A traffic count obtained by machines or through the application of

technology, rather than by manual recording (see recording traffic counter).
automatic vehicle
classification (AVC)
Typically use of axle loads and spacing to identify vehicle type as they pass
on a highway without any interaction with the driver.
automatic vehicle
identification (AVI)
Addition of markings or other devices to a vehicle to allow the vehicle to be

uniquely identified by automatic scanning equipment.
automatic vehicle location

(AVL)
A means for determining the geographic location of a vehicle and

transmitting this information to a point where it can be used.
Term
Definition
automatic vehicle
monitoring (AVM)
Involves the use of a combination of on-board electronics for vehicle

diagnostics and location determination, communications with a control
centre, and software at the control centre to monitor vehicle and system
performance and to assist control centre personnel to manage system
operations.
automotive collision
avoidance system (ACAS)
Designed to provide visual and audible warnings to drivers if an imminent

crash is detected. The system also provides visual cues to help the driver
maintain a safe distance when following other vehicles.
autonomous emergency
braking (AEB)
Sensor system (typically radar or video) to detect objects in front of the

vehicle and automatically apply the brakes if a collision is about to occur.
auxiliary braking system
Installed on heavy vehicles to support the continuous braking load when

travelling downhill. It allows the vehicle to descend grades at a controlled
speed and ensure the friction brakes do not overheat.
auxiliary lane
A portion of the carriageway adjoining the through traffic lanes, used for
speed change or for other purposes supplementary to through traffic
movement.
availability
A measure of the probability in signal maintenance that the equipment will

be available for use, determined as MTBF/(MTBF + MTTR) where MTBF =
mean time between failures and MTTR = mean time to repair.
Also see achieved availability, inherent availability and operational
availability
AVC
see automatic vehicle classification
average daily traffic (ADT)
ADT is a sample of the AADT and is the traffic count averaged over a
particular month, a week or a few days.
average deceleration
Number determined by dividing the square of the initial vehicle speed by

twice the stopping distance expressed in compatible units.
average design speed
The weighted average of the design speeds within a road section, in which
each subsection within the section is considered to have an individual
design speed.
average least dimension

(ALD)
The average height of the aggregate particles when they are spread as a
single layer with their least dimensions vertical.
average overall travel

speed
The summation of the distances travelled by all vehicles or a specified

class of vehicle over a given section or road during a specified period of
time, divided by the summation of overall travel times for those vehicles.
average recurrence interval

(ARI)
The average interval of time during which an event will be equalled or

exceeded once. It should be based on a lengthy period of records of the
event. The term replaces recurrence interval.
average speed
see running speed
average spot speed
The arithmetic mean of the speeds of all traffic, or components thereof, at a

specified point, during a specified period of time.
average traffic density
The arithmetic mean of the traffic densities measured over a specified

period of time.
average weekday daily

traffic (AWDT)
Taken as the average 24-hour count over the period from Monday to
Sunday. It is often considered because the longer the counting period used
to observe a traffic stream, the better the resulting estimates of design
parameters such as AADT.
average weekday traffic

(AWT)
The total traffic volume for all of the weekdays (less public holidays), in a
stated period, divided by the number of such days in that period.
Term
Definition
AVL
see automatic vehicle location
AVM
see automatic vehicle monitoring
axle
One or more shafts, positioned in a line across a vehicle, on which one or

more wheels intended to support the vehicle turn.
axle counts
The numbers of actuations on an axle sensor such as a pneumatic tube as

the wheels of vehicles cross over the sensor.
axle group (NHVR)
A tandem axle group, twinsteer axle group, tri-axle group or quad-axle

group.
axle group load
The load applied to a pavement by an axle group.
axle load
That portion of the total vehicle load transmitted to the road through a
single axle.
axle load limit
Restrictions on how much load can be carried on an axle, single or dual

tyres, and on the vehicle or vehicle combinations.
axle mass
The total mass axle load transmitted to the road by all the tyres fitted to an
axle group.
axle pair counts
One half of the number of axle counts. It is used as an indication of the

number of vehicle counts. Axle pair counts are always less than the
number of vehicles and can only be an approximate indication because a
traffic stream will have vehicles with more than two axles. A correction
factor is usually applied after calibration.
B-double (NHVR)
A combination consisting of a prime mover towing two semitrailers, with the

first semitrailer being attached directly to the prime mover by a fifth wheel
coupling and the second semitrailer being mounted on the rear of the first
semitrailer by a fifth wheel coupling on the first semitrailer.
B-triple (NHVR)
A prime mover towing three semitrailers. The first and second semitrailers
are connected to the following semitrailer by a fifth wheel permanently
located towards the rear of the semitrailer. Under the Heavy Vehicle
National Law, a B-triple is categorised as a road train.
B-type coupling (NHVR)
A fifth wheel connection coupling. This coupling type transfers roll and load
between the vehicle units. Also see fifth wheel coupling.
B85 vehicle
The design vehicle whose physical dimensions represent the 85th percentile
class of all cars and light vans on the road.
B99 vehicle
The design vehicle whose physical dimensions represent the 99.8th

percentile class of all cars and light vans on the road.
BAC
see blood alcohol concentration
backboard
see target board
back-calculation
As applied to structural pavement assessment, the process by which the

elastic moduli of pavement layers is calculated using surface deflection bowl
data.
backfill
Fill placed in an excavation.
background intensity
The luminous intensity of the signal background.
backhoe (digger)
A tractor-based wheeled excavator with a hydraulic digging arm mounted at

the rear of the machine.
Term
Definition
backscatter mode (nuclear

meter)
The deflection of radiation or particles by scattering through angles greater

than 90o with reference to the original direction of travel.
back wall
A narrow reinforced concrete wall, forming part of the abutment to prevent

the earth fill reaching the abutment sill and bearings.
baghouse
An arrangement of fabric bag filters assembled in an airtight unit designed

to remove dust during a manufacturing process.
A set of tools to develop and adjust aggregate blends which helps to
ensure aggregate interlock (if desired) and good aggregate packing, giving
resistance to permanent deformation, while maintaining volumetric
properties that provide resistance to environmental distress.
Bailey Method
It is applicable to all dense-graded asphalt mixtures, regardless of the

maximum size aggregate in the mixture, and can be used with any method
of mix design that allows the evaluation of aggregate blends.
see equitable transport system
balanced transport system

ballast
1.
Broken stone of about 100 mm maximum size used generally as a

foundation course.
2.
The material added to a roller to increase its mass
ballast wall

ball coupling
A coupling comprising a coupling ball and a complementary coupling body

(assembly).
balling
The result of a cationic emulsion adhering to the finest particles in a mix

with dirty aggregate, so that balls of bitumen and fines occur and the larger
stones remaining uncoated.
bandwidth
The amount of green time common to all signals along the route in a
coordinated system (green band). This can be determined as the time
between the first and the last vehicle, travelling at the design speed, which
can pass through a coordinated system of signals receiving a green signal
on arrival at each stop line.
bank
An embankment or fill in the line of a road.
bar mark
A label given to a reinforcement bar for the purposes of identification.
Barnes Dance
see scramble-crossing phase
barrier kerb
A kerb with a profile and height sufficient to prevent or discourage vehicles

moving off the carriageway.
barrier line
A pair of longitudinal lines marked on the carriageway to prohibit overtaking

movement in one or both directions.
Term
Definition
basic fatigue management

(BFM) system (NHVR)
For an operator of a heavy vehicle, means the operators management

system for ensuring compliance with the BFM standards and business
rules, including by:
a) recording the name, current driver licence number and contact details
of each driver who is currently operating under the operators BFM
accreditation; and
b) ensuring each of the drivers is in a fit state:
to safely perform required duties; and
to meet any specified medical requirements; and
c) ensuring each of the drivers:
has been informed of the BFM hours; and
d) ensuring anyone employed in the operators business, who has
responsibilities relating to scheduling or managing the fatigue of the
drivers:
has been informed of the BFM hours.
basalt
A hard igneous rock composed mainly of plagioclase feldspar and

pyroxene. Used for aggregate in pavements and concrete.
Base, of the driver of a

heavy vehicle (NHVR)
Also referred to as "home base" or "driver's base"

The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) specifies:
1. In relation to particular work a) is the place from which the driver normally does the work, but
b) is, for the purposes of Chapter 6 of the HVNL, the garage address of
the vehicle if:
the vehicle is a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle; and
the driver is required under Part 6.4 of the HVNL, in relation to that
particular work, to keep a work diary and to record the location of the
drivers base in the work diary, and has not done so.
Note: The driver of a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle may not be
required under Part 6.4 of the HVNL, in relation to particular work, to
keep a work diary and to record the location of the drivers base in the
work diary, if, for example;
the driver is undertaking 100 km work under standard hours
the driver is working under a work diary exemption
2. For a driver who is a self-employed driver and an employed driver at

different times, the driver may have one base as a self-employed driver
under paragraph 1 above and another base as an employed driver under
that paragraph.
3. For a driver who has two (2) or more employers, the driver may have a
different base in relation to each employer under paragraph 1 above.
base/basecourse
One or more layers of material usually constituting the uppermost structural

element of a pavement and on which the surfacing may be placed. It may
be composed of fine crushed rock, natural gravel, broken stone, stabilised
material, asphalt or Portland cement concrete.
base centreline
The pegged centreline of the road alignment.
base dimension
The value of a particular design dimension before any operating clearances

has been added.
Term
Definition
base plate
A plate providing a mounting base for a fifth wheel.
base traffic
That traffic already present on a facility, or that traffic unlikely to be affected

by design changes.
basic capacity
Capacity of a road or area to accommodate moving and/or stationary

vehicles with regard to the need to maintain specified environmental
standards.
basic desired speed
The speed adopted by a driver or drivers when not influenced by the

presence of other drivers or restrictive road alignment features.
basic lanes
Those lanes forming the minimum number of lanes designated and

maintained over a significant length of route, irrespective of changes in
traffic volume and the requirements of lane balance.
batching
The process of combining the ingredients of a mix in fixed proportions by

mass or by volume.
batching plant
Mechanical equipment for measuring, by mass or volume, the quantities of

various ingredients to make up each complete charge of a mixer.
batter
1.
The uniform side slope of walls, banks, cuttings, etc. Usually expressed as
a ratio of horizontal to vertical
2.
The amount of such slope or rake, usually expressed as a ratio of

horizontal to vertical, distinct from grade.
3.
To form a uniform side slope to a wall, bank, or cutting.
batter rounding
Curvature that is applied to improve the stability and appearance of the

road at the intersection of the extension of the road crossfall and/or existing
surface (hinge point), with the batter slope of an embankment or cutting.
beam
A load bearing member which supports the deck of a bridge.
bearing (structural)
A device for transmitting horizontal and vertical forces of a bridge

superstructure to the supporting structure.
bearing (surveying)
The bearing of a straight line is the angle measured clockwise from grid
north to the subject line and is given in degrees, minutes and seconds. The
bearing of the Control Line shall always be given in the direction of
increasing chainage along the line
bearing capacity
The maximum average contact pressure between the foundation and the
soil which will not produce shear failure in the soil.
bedding (bed) (capper

layer, working platform)
A layer of suitable material placed on a foundation to provide uniform

support for a structure.
behavioural costs
Costs that influence behaviour (especially travel), which may be real or

perceived costs and which, when identified, would be used in travel
behavioural models.
bench
A ledge constructed in a batter or natural slope for the purpose of providing

adequate horizontal sight distance, greater security against batter slippage
or to assist with batter drainage.
benchmark
A defined mark of a permanent nature, the level of which, relative to some

datum, has been determined or assumed, and to which the level of other
points may be related.
benchmarking
The process of measuring performance and analysing practices in key

areas and comparing them to other similar operations or functions, to find
ways of achieving better results.
benefit-cost analysis
see economic costs and benefits
Term
Definition
benefit-cost ratio (BCR)
The ratio of the discounted benefits over the life of a project to the
discounted capital costs, or the projects discounted total agency costs.
benign alternative
Means of reducing traffic congestion without large capital expenditures e.g.

staggered work hours and flexible work hours.
Benkelman beam
An instrument for measuring the deflection of the surface of a pavement

caused by the passage of a dual-tyred single axle carrying a standard axle
load.
berm
1.
An area between the kerb and footpath or between the footpath and
property boundary
2.
NZ: The edge of a road reserve between the kerb or surface water channel
and property boundary, exclusive of the footpath.
3.
A narrow shelf, path, or ledge formed typically at the top or bottom of an

earth slope.
4.
A mound on the outer edge of a road above a fill batter to protect the batter
from erosion.
BFM
see basic fatigue management system
bias error
An indication of whether a device is systematically measuring high or low

when compared to a reference set of measures.
bicycle
A vehicle with one or more wheels that is built to be propelled by human

power through a belt, chain or gears (whether or not it has an auxiliary
motor), and includes a pedicab, penny-farthing and unicycle; but not a
wheelchair, wheeled toy or pedelec.
bicycle aspect
Bicycle symbol on a traffic signal face capable of being illuminated at a

given time (also see bicycle signal face).
bicycle bypass
Road engineering treatment allowing cyclists to avoid passage through

areas such as intersections, or other obstacles to safe and comfortable
travel.
bicycle/car parking lane
A lane combination used on roads where one section is designated for the
exclusive use of cyclists and the other for motor vehicle parking.
bicycle crossing light
A green, yellow or red bicycle crossing light.
bicycle enclosure
Area, usually caged, with electronic or restricted key access. Offers

medium level of storage security in that whilst an owner can lock a bicycle
within the enclosure, other cyclists with keys also have access to the area.
bicycle facility
Generic term covering paths, lanes and end-of-trip provisions for cyclists
bicycle lane
Section of road pavement, adjacent and flush with traffic lane, designated
by signage and pavement marking for exclusive use of cyclists. Also known
as an exclusive bicycle lane.
Also see separated bicycle lane, contraflow bicycle lane, cycle way, peak
period bicycle lane and special purpose lane.
bicycle locker
Storage facility with access restricted to single user, usually located in

public places where longer term parking is required, eg railway stations,
bus terminals and university residences.
bicycle network
Planning to enable cyclists of a wide range of abilities to move safely and

conveniently to chosen destinations via suitable desire lines. Basis is the
road network, augmented by on-road facilities and dedicated infrastructure,
such as off-road paths. May incorporate public transport connectivity.
Term
Definition
bicycle parking facility
An area or a structure used for the parking, storage or securing of bicycles,

which provides a defined level of security for the bicycle in accordance with
the security classifications given in AS 2890.3.
bicycle parking rail
Facility to assist short-term parking close to a destination. Designs vary but

need to conform to AS2890.3.
bicycle path
A path or path section intended for the exclusive use of cyclists, generally
referred to as an exclusive bicycle path.
bicycle plan
Steps to encourage cycling as an alternative to motor vehicle travel,

including government and community programs designed to provide safer
and more convenient bicycle travel.
bicycle route
Recommended course for bicycles, which may include both on and off-road
sections.
Also see strategic bicycle route.
bicycle safety audit
Review of bicycle facilities from a safety perspective which can be applied

to existing and proposed facilities, both on and off-road.
bicycle signal face
A signal face for the control of bicycle movements that consists of two
bicycle aspects (red, green) or three bicycle aspects (red, yellow, green)
(see bicycle aspect).
bicycle storage area
An area of a road before an intersection with traffic lights that has: painted
on it one or more bicycle symbols; that is between two parallel stop lines,
regardless of whether the lines are of equal length; and that opens out from
a bicycle lane. It does not include any stop line. Provided to position
cyclists in a highly visible location whilst waiting to proceed through an
intersection. Also known as head start or expanded storage areas.
bicycle strategy
Framework for the development and coordination of government cycling

programs. Aims to integrate needs of cyclists across all aspects of planning
and design including commercial and industrial development, land
subdivision, and road design and maintenance.
bicycle survey
Data collection of cycling activity and behaviour, including manual counting,

questionnaires, travel time measurement, and video recording.
bike-and-ride
System in which people ride to a specified location, park there, and board
public transport for a defined destination.
bind
To fill the interstices between small stones or coarse gravels with finer
material to provide mechanical and physical bonding.
binder
1.
A material used to fill the interstices between small stones or coarse

gravels. It provides mechanical, chemical and physical bonding and holds
the aggregate particles together as a coherent mass.
2.
A manufactured material used in small amounts in stabilisation to change

the properties of the existing material.
3.
A bituminous material used for waterproofing the surface and holding an

aggregate layer to the base.
binder allowance
An allowance used to modify the basic binder application rate to account

for existing surface texture, traffic, grade, absorption by base and/or
aggregate and for embedment.
binder application rate
The rate of application of a bituminous binder at a given temperature and

including, where applicable, the polymer or scrap rubber additive. In
specifications, the binder application rate is expressed in L/m2 at 15oC. In
stabilisation, the rate of binder applied to the untreated material in terms of
kg/m2 or percentage by mass of the road material.
Term
Definition
binder hardening (binder

oxidation)
The increase in viscosity over time due to oxidisation, steric hardening, etc.
binding (preliminary
concrete)
A layer of lean mass concrete placed on soil to provide a clean bed for
reinforced concrete work.
bio-retention systems
Structural controls which capture stormwater runoff and use filtration to

treat the runoff. Uses vegetation, such as trees, shrubs, and grasses, to
remove pollutants.
BIPS
see bus information and priority system
bitumen
A very viscous liquid or a solid, consisting essentially of hydrocarbons and

their derivatives, which are soluble in carbon disulphide. It is substantially
non-volatile and softens gradually when heated. It possesses waterproofing
and adhesive properties. It is obtained from native asphalt or by processing
the residue from the refining of naturally occurring crude petroleum.
bitumen emulsion
A liquid product in which a substantial amount of bitumen (with which some

oil may be mixed) is suspended in a finely divided condition in water by
means of emulsifying and stabilising agents.
bitumen emulsion breaking
The separation of a bitumen emulsion into free bitumen and water. The
process is accompanied by a colour change from brown to black.
bitumen rubberised seal
A sprayed seal where the binder consists of bitumen modified by the

incorporation of rubber, either natural or synthetic.
bituminous
A material that resembles or contains bitumen.
bituminous slurry
A mixture of bitumen emulsion (with or without polymer modifier), mineral

aggregate, filler, additives and water properly proportioned to form a slurry
which can be spread evenly on a road surface (as in bituminous slurry
surfacing).
blacklength
A short section of road with a certain number of crashes per kilometre

within a specified number of years.
blackspot
A location which has an abnormally high number or rate of crashes.
blanket drain
A drainage layer extending full width across a pavement to intercept rising

water and prevent it from entering the pavement.
blank-out sign (BOS)
A blank-out sign only displays its message when activated. When not
activated, the sign face is blank.
blast furnace slag
A non-metallic product consisting essentially of silicates and aluminosilicates of lime, produced simultaneously with iron in a blast furnace.
blasting
The use of explosives for excavating rock, demolition and other purposes.
bleeding
1.
A surface defect in which an excess of binder completely covers the

aggregate. It results from the upward migration of the binder, due to a
combination of traffic action, warm temperatures and other factors. It leads
to a loss of surface texture.
2.
The escape of water from freshly placed concrete to the surface or the
escape of mortar through small gaps in the containing formwork.
blind aisle
A parking aisle closed at one end.
blinding
The process by which a thin layer of suitable material is spread on the

surface of a layer to absorb excess binder, to assist in remedying a slippery
or loose condition, or to fill excess surface voids.
BLIP
see bus lane with intermittent priority
Term
Definition
block cracking
Cracking of the surface layer typified by approximately rectangular shapes

which is associated with shrinkage cracking from cemented pavement
materials or subgrades subject to volume changes.
blood alcohol concentration

(BAC)
Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is a measurement of the amount of

alcohol in the body which is measured in grams of alcohol per 100 millilitres
of blood (g%).
blown bitumen
A harder grade of bitumen produced from a softer grade by controlled

oxidation, normally by air blowing at an elevated temperature.
bogie axle group
see tandem axle group (NHVR)
bollard
A post of stout appearance used on a traffic island, pedestrian refuge or

beside a roadway to deter vehicles from encroaching into a pedestrian area
or bicycle path.
bond
The property of mechanical interlock between particles arising from their

shape and disposition relative to each other.
boning
The operation of setting out levels by sighting over boning rods whereby,
from two given points, other points at the same level, or on the same
gradient, may be established.
bony surface
An open textured surface of an unsealed road or shoulder caused by a lack

of fines. Also used to describe asphalt or concrete which has segregated
during mixing and placement.
BOOT
see build, own, operate and transfer form of project/contract delivery
border
The area between the carriageway and the property line. It allows provision
for services, footpaths, cycle paths, shared paths, street trees and street
furniture. Additional width will be required for bus bays or where major
transmission services are to be provided in the verge. It includes the
shoulder if provided.
bore (bore hole, drill hole)
A hole produced in the ground by drilling or driving for geotechnical

investigation or to give access to underground water supplies.
bore log
A record of the events and features of the formations penetrated during

boring.
borrow
Fill obtained by excavating at some point other than cuttings required for
construction of the road.
borrow pit
An excavation located outside the formation limits used to obtain fill.
BOS
see blank-out sign
BOT
see build, operate and transfer form of project/contract delivery
boulder
A stone or piece of rock of large size, usually larger than 200 mm.
bounce
The acceleration of a vehicle along its vertical axis.
boundary
see property line
boundary line
see property line
bound material
A granular or subgrade material to which binders such as lime, cement or

bitumen are added to improve structural stiffness.
bound pavement
A pavement composed of materials incorporating sufficient amounts of

chemical agent(s) to produce significant structural stiffness and improve the
load bearing capacity.
box culvert
A culvert of rectangular cross-section.
Term
Definition
box cutting
That portion of the road where both sides are in cut.
boxing (pavement
construction)
The space formed between the shoulders above the level of the subgrade
when the shoulders are constructed. Full width construction is preferred to
boxed construction if there are no constraints on pavement width and level.
brake reactive suspension
Suspension in which there is a transfer of vertical loading from one axle to

another axle in the same axle group due to the application of brakes.
braking distance
The distance a vehicle travels in the time between the application of the
brakes and when it stops.
braking force
The negative longitudinal force resulting from braking torque application.
braking force coefficient
The ratio of the braking force to the vertical reaction on a locked wheel
friction testing device. The values obtained will depend on the type of
equipment and the way in which it is used.
break (of a bitumen

emulsion)
The separation of a bitumen emulsion into free bitumen and water, which
occurs as a result of coagulation of the dispersed bitumen droplets to form
a continuous phase.
breakaway pole
Designed to detach from a solid base at ground level following a vehicle

impact.
bridge
A structure designed to carry a road or path over an obstacle by spanning

it.
bridge assessment
Determining if an existing bridge has sufficient capacity to permit a specific

vehicle to cross it.
bridge management
system
A systematic approach to maintenance inspection, planning, budgeting and

work, usually supported by software to assist in organising and analysing
data on bridge inventory and condition as well as maintenance activities
(e.g. type, costs, productivity, location, history, etc.).
bridge rating
A comparison of the relative strength of the original design load of a bridge

with the current design load.
British pendulum tester
A portable, dynamic pendulum device which measures the energy

absorbed by a rubber pad as its edge slides over a test surface. The tester
may be used in the field and in the laboratory. It is useful for confined areas
such as road markings and footpaths.
brittle (material)
A material which has a low toughness and is subject to cracking or fracture

under deformation.
broken back curve
Two horizontal curves in the same direction separated by a short straight (a

special case of the compound curve).
broken stone
Natural rock, gravel, or pebbles broken to suitable size for use in civil
construction.
brooming
The process of distributing aggregate over the surface of a pavement, or

removal of loose material from a pavement surface prior to, or after, the
application of a bituminous treatment.
brownfield sites
Existing developed areas that are undergoing change as business needs

change. Due to the constraints of the existing road network and land
ownership patterns these areas present challenges to councils and
developers trying to make them relevant to current business and transport
needs.
Term
Definition
build, operate and transfer

form of project/contract
delivery (BOT)
A form of project financing, wherein a private entity receives a concession

from the private or public sector to construct, and operate a facility for a
specified period, often as long as 20 or 30 years. After the concession
period ends, ownership is transferred back to the granting entity.
build, own, operate and

transfer form of
project/contract delivery
(BOOT)
A BOOT funding model involves a single organisation, or consortium

(BOOT provider) building, owning and operating the scheme for a defined
period of time and then transferring this ownership across to an agreed
party. Customers (usually government) enter into long term supply
contracts with the BOOT operator and are charged accordingly for the
service.
built-up area
In relation to a length of road, means an area in which either of the

following is present for a distance of at least 500 metres or, if the length of
road is shorter than 500 metres, for the whole of the road: buildings, not
over 100 metres apart, on land next to the road; street lights not over 100
metres apart.
bulk density
Mass per unit volume including voids in a material.
bulking
The increase in volume of a material resulting from disturbance or from

changes in its condition, for example from excavation.
bulk particle density
1.
Mass of a saturated surface-dry particle of aggregate in air divided by its

volume including all voids, both permeable and inaccessible to water.
2.
Mass of a dry particle of aggregate in air divided by its volume including all
voids, both permeable and inaccessible to water.
bunching
Characteristic of traffic flow under certain conditions in which some vehicles

tend to travel together at relatively small headways (typically less than four
or five seconds).
bundle mark
A label given to a bundle/group or reinforcement bars for the purposes of

identification.
Burn-in-Test (RMS ITS)
A test in which a system or component is made to run for an extended

period of time, preferably at close to full or full capacity, to detect problems.
Burn-in may be conducted to ensure that a device or system functions
properly before it leaves the manufacturing plant or may be part of a repair
or scheduled maintenance activity.
bus (NHVR)
A heavy motor vehicle built or fitted to carry more than nine adults,
including the driver.
bus bay
An auxiliary lane of limited length at a bus stop or terminus usually indented

into the shoulder or verge.
bus information and priority

system (BIPS)
An advanced ITS system providing real-time information on bus arrivals.

Also used to implement priority for buses.
bus lane
A bus lane can be integrated with the trafficked carriageway and adjoin
other traffic lanes, be segregated from the trafficked carriageway by kerbs,
shoulders and/or barriers, or be segregated from other traffic and combined
with another bus lane (usually in the opposing direction) to form a busway.
Note that cyclists are permitted to use bus lanes.
bus lane with intermittent

priority (BLIP)
With BLIP, other traffic can make use of the lane as normal. As a bus
approaches, other vehicles are instructed to safely leave the lane (or are
prevented from entering the lane), yielding right-of-way to the bus. Dynamic
signage may be used to communicate the status of the BLIP to other users
of the roadway.
Term
Definition
bus-only lane
Lane provided for exclusive use of buses, designated with

signage/pavement marking. Note authorised special purpose vehicles are
also permitted to use bus-only lanes.
bus priority
Means by which buses are given an advantage over other traffic; for
instance, by traffic signal pre-emption measures or by freeway entrances or
bus lanes that give priority to buses.
busway
Roadway reserved for buses only. Right-of-way for the exclusive use of
buses and emergency vehicles (see bus lane).
butt joint (concrete)
A joint between a base slab and other parts of the pavement without any
gap, dowels or tie bars.
buttress
A strengthening rib at right angles to and monolithic with a wall on the

opposite side to lateral thrust and provided for the purpose of resisting such
thrust.
bypass
An alternative route which enables through traffic to avoid urban or

congested areas, or other obstructions to movement. Usually to divert
heavy vehicles away from residential areas.
bypassable traffic
The traffic which can be diverted from a particular road or area because
drivers do not wish to stop on that road or in that area.
C-ITS
see cooperative ITS
cable linking
see local interlinking
cableless linking
A mode of signal coordination in which linking is achieved by reference to

an accurate clock in each signal controller. The clocks are initially set to
exactly the same time and maintained in synchronism by reference to the
mains supply frequency. The clock initiates the operation of a certain plan
at a certain time of day and day of week, according to a predetermined
schedule.
caisson
A hollow structure for keeping water or soft ground from flowing into an
excavation.
calibration
A set of operations that establish, under specified conditions, the

relationship between values of quantities indicated by a measuring
instrument or measuring system, of values represented by a material
measure or a reference material, and the corresponding values realised by
(measurement) standards.
California Bearing Ratio

(CBR)
The ratio, expressed as a percentage, between a test load and an

arbitrarily defined standard load. This test load is required to cause a
plunger of standard dimensions to penetrate at a specified rate into a
specifically prepared soil specimen.
camber (superelevation)
The transverse convexity given to the surface of a carriageway or footway.
CAMs
Chevron alignment markers - see chevron board
CAN bus (NHVR)
This is a means of electronic communication between devices, commonly

used in heavy vehicles. A CAN Bus (for controller area network) is a
vehicle bus standard designed to allow microcontrollers and devices to
communicate with each other within a vehicle without a host computer.
cannibalise (RMS ITS)
Use of a maintainable unit as a source of spare components for another,

similar maintainable unit.
Term
Definition
capacity
The maximum sustainable flow rate at which vehicles or persons

reasonably can be expected to traverse a point or uniform segment of a
lane or roadway during a specified time period under given roadway,
geometric, traffic, environmental, and control conditions; usually expressed
as vehicles per hour, passenger cars per hour, or persons per hour.
capacity analysis
Quantitative techniques for measuring the effectiveness of existing

transport facilities in moving traffic and people, and for determining the
impacts of proposed system improvements such as additional traffic lanes,
signal timing adjustments, or enhanced public transport services. Capacity
analysis is not restricted to roads but includes concepts and methods for
pedestrians and cyclists on footpaths and bicycle facilities.
capacity indicator
In assessing capacity restraint, curves relating the volume/capacity ratio to

speed are used. Different curves are used for different types of roads or
different land uses and the capacity indicator for a link identifies which
curve is to be used for that particular link.
capacity restraint
Process by which the assigned volume on a link is compared with the

practical capacity of that link and the speed of the link adjusted to reflect
the relationship between speed, volume and capacity. The procedure is
repeated until a realistic balance is achieved.
cape seal
1.
A treatment consisting of a slurry seal over a sprayed seal providing an

asphalt-like appearance.
2.
A treatment involving the placement of an open course sprayed seal

followed by filling of the voids with one or two applications of slurry. The
result is an asphalt-like appearance.
capillary water
Water drawn upwards into soil pores and held by surface tension.
capitalisation
The process of bringing to account all expenditures of a capital nature in

the determination of asset values.
capping layer (earthworks)
A Type A material layer of low permeability placed immediately below the

permanent subbase or selected material to maintain constant moisture
content in the material below the capping layer.
captive riders
Persons limited by circumstance to use one mode of transportation. Note:

Generally, captive drivers do not own or drive a motor vehicle and must
depend on public or specialised transit.
car availability
see car ownership
car occupancy
The average number of occupants, including the driver, per passenger car.
car ownership
Number of cars owned per unit, i.e. x cars per 1000 people or y cars per
household.
car-owning household
Household in which at least one member has a car available for regular
personal use, whether owned outright, subject to hire purchase, borrowed
or owned by a company or a government authority.
car park
A place usually in the open air, where cars may be parked. Also commonly
referred to as a parking lot.
car-pooling
Pre-arranged ride-sharing of a car trip for the purpose of commuting. The

car is usually provided by the driver.
car-sharing
Membership-based programs facilitating short-term access to a car, often

operating in inner-city locations.
Term
Definition
carbon dioxide equivalent

(CO2e)
Measure used to compare the emissions from various greenhouse gases

based upon their global warming potential. For example, the global
warming potential for methane over 100 years is 21. This means that
emissions of one million metric tons of methane is equivalent to emissions
of 21 million metric tons of carbon dioxide.
carriageway
That portion of a road or bridge devoted particularly to the use of vehicles,

inclusive of shoulders and auxiliary lanes.
cast-in-place (concrete)
(also cast-in situ)
Concrete which is cast directly into its final position.
casualty
Someone who is injured or killed in an accident.
catch drain
A surface channel constructed along the high side of a road or

embankment outside the batter. Its role is to intercept surface water and
direct it away from the slope.
catchment area
That area determined by topographical or equivalent features upon any

part on which rain falling will contribute to the flow of the drainage feature at
the point under consideration.
catch pit (sump)
A concrete pit at the end of a water channel used to settle out solids before
the flow enters a pipe drain. A hole or depression into which water is
drained.
category analysis
In trip-generation analysis, households that are cross-classified by those

variables influencing the amount of traffic generated, such as car
ownership, income and family size and composition.
cationic bitumen emulsion
A type of bitumen emulsion in which the suspended particles are positively

charged.
cationic rapid setting
An emulsion grade that breaks down rapidly (as little as three minutes) and
so cannot be mixed with aggregate in warm climates. It is useful for seal
and tack coats.
cats eye
Raised pavement marker with reflectors, fixed in the carriageway.
causeway
A raised carriageway across wet or low areas or across tidal water.
cement
A general term for substances that bind aggregates. In concrete work the
term normally refers to Portland cement.
cemented materials
Those produced by the addition of cement, lime or other hydraulically

binding agents to granular materials in sufficient quantities to produce a
bound layer with reduced moisture susceptibility, increased compressive
strength and significant tensile strength.
cement stabilisation
The controlled application of cement to improve the load-carrying capacity

of a pavement layer (usually the basecourse) or of the subgrade.
census station
The location at which a traffic count or other traffic data or information is

collected. (Survey or study may involve a number of census stations).
central business district

(CBD)
Dominant centre of business and commercial activity within a given area.

CBDs are characterised by high density office and retail development, large
numbers of pedestrians and vehicles, and a heavy demand for parking.
central island
The circular or other specially shaped central island constructed or marked

at an intersection (roundabout) and around which traffic circulates in a
clockwise direction.
central island
radius/diameter
The radius/diameter of the circle that forms the kerb line of the central
island. This may not necessarily be a single radius curve; compound
circular curves may be used where necessary.
Term
Definition
centre blister
This treatment may be similar to a two-lane slow point; however, it always

involves an oblong traffic island placed in the centre of the two-way
carriageway to create a symmetrical horizontal deflection for both lanes.
Due to its simplicity and relatively low cost it has been popular in new
residential subdivisions. Additional kerb modifications may be included to
increase the effective deflection.
centreline
The line which defines the axis or alignment of the centre of a road or other
work. It may be defined by pavement markings on a road delineating
opposing traffic flows.
CFI
see continuous flow intersection
Chain of Responsibility
(CoR) (NHVR)
Chain of Responsibility is similar to the legal concept of 'duty of care' that

underpins Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) law. This approach has
long been used by the courts to impose liability in negligence and damages
claims.
Under Chain of Responsibility, complying with transport law is a shared
responsibility and all parties in the road transport supply chain are
responsible for preventing breaches. This approach recognises the effects
of the actions, inactions and demands of off-the-road parties in the
transport chain.
Anybody not just the driver who has control over the transport task can
be held responsible for breaches of road laws and may be legally liable.
Also see party in the chain of responsibility.
chainage
The distance of a point along a control line, measured from a datum point.
channel
The drain which accepts water directly from the pavement.
channelisation
A system of controlling traffic by the introduction of an island or islands, or

markings on a carriageway to direct traffic into predetermined paths,
usually at an intersection or junction.
channelised intersection
An intersection provided with medians and islands for defining the

trafficable area and to control specific movements.
channelising island
A traffic island used at an intersection to confine specific movements of

traffic to definite channels.
characteristic deflection
The mean deflection plus a factor times the standard deviation of the
deflection (assuming a normally distributed sample).
characteristic value
The statistical measure of a property for the purpose of determination

conformance (e.g. relative compaction).
chassis
The basic underframe of an operating road or rail vehicle including the

engine frame and other essential structural and mechanical parts but
exclusive of body and all appurtenances for the accommodation of driver,
property and passengers appliances, or equipment related to other than
control.
chevron alignment markers
see chevron board
chevron board
A patterned reflective sight board that indicates an abrupt change in road

direction.
Term
chevron marking
Definition
1.
A V-shaped marking applied to areas of pavement not for general use by

vehicles.
2.
A diagonal marking of slopes in one direction only relative to traffic. These

markings are used to give definition to splayed approaches to islands or
obstructions and to sealed shoulders. They are used extensively for
painted traffic islands and medians.
3.
Diagonal striping on hazards and barriers to make them more conspicuous

on roadways at traffic islands.
children's crossing
A portion of a roadway, not being a pedestrian (zebra) crossing, intended

for part-time use for the crossing of pedestrians (usually school children),
indicated by the display to vehicular traffic of a Children Crossing flag
and/or other signs or signals.
children's crossing
supervisor
An authorised person, appropriately trained, who controls vehicle and

pedestrian movements at children's crossings or at other crossings where
children cross the road.
chip (chippings)
Crushed aggregate, essentially single sized, used for road surfacing.
chip seal
The term used in New Zealand which is equivalent to a sprayed seal in

Australia.
see sprayed seal
circle aspect
A traffic signal aspect of circular form and appropriate colour.
CIRCLY
A linear elastic layer computer program used to calculate the stresses,

strains and deflections generated in a pavement in all directions under the
application of a simulated load.
circulating carriageway
The carriageway surrounding the central island of a roundabout on which

circulating vehicles travel in a clockwise direction.
circulating flow
The vehicular flow in all lanes of the circulating carriageway in advance of

each entry point, (i.e. in front of each splitter island).
circulation
Pattern in which traffic moves in a given area.
circulation aisle
A roadway primarily used for circulation and to gain access to parking

aisles, and on which there is some parking.
circulation clearance
The clearance required in addition to manoeuvring clearances when a

vehicle is moving at speeds greater than those applicable to manoeuvring.
circulation roadway
A section of road that is used solely for circulation and to gain access to
parking aisles and on which there is no parking.
circulatory bicycle lane
Lane that follows a roundabout carriageway.
circumferential road
Roughly circumferential road about the centre of an urban area permitting

traffic to avoid the centre of such areas.
city logistics
The process for totally optimising the logistics and transport activities by
transport companies in urban areas while considering the traffic
environment, traffic congestion and energy consumption within the
framework of a market economy.
Term
Definition
Class 1 vehicle (NHVR)
A heavy vehicle is a Class 1 heavy vehicle if it, together with its load, does
not comply with a prescribed mass requirement or prescribed dimension
requirement applying to it, and:
a) it is a special purpose vehicle; or
b) it is an agricultural vehicle other than an agricultural trailer; or
c)
it:
is a heavy vehicle carrying, or designed for the purpose of carrying,
a large indivisible item, including, for example, a combination
including a low loader; but
is not a road train or B-double, or carrying a freight container
designed for multi-modal transport.
An agricultural trailer is a Class 1 heavy vehicle, irrespective of whether it,

together with its load, does or does not comply with a prescribed mass
requirement or prescribed dimension requirement applying to it.
Class 1 notice (NHVR)
A notice issued under s117 of the Heavy Vehicle National Law for Class 1
vehicles.
Class 1 permit (NHVR)
A permit issued under s122 of the Heavy Vehicle National Law for a Class
1 vehicle(s).
A heavy vehicle is a Class 2 heavy vehicle if it is a PBS vehicle or it:

a) complies with the prescribed mass requirements and prescribed
dimension requirements applying to it; and
b) is:
a B-double
a road train
a bus, other than an articulated bus, that is longer than 12.5m
a combination designed and built to carry vehicles on 1 deck that,
together with its load is longer than 19m or higher than 4.3m or
a motor vehicle, or a combination, that is higher
vehicles.
2 vehicle(s).
A heavy vehicle is a Class 3 heavy vehicle if

a) it, together with its load, does not comply with a prescribed mass
requirement or prescribed dimension requirement applying to it; and
b) it is not a Class 1 heavy vehicle.
vehicles.
3 vehicle(s).
classification count
A sample count of traffic in which the vehicles within the traffic flow are
classified into types or characteristics, such as speed and weight.
clay
A natural earthy material, formed by the natural decomposition of rocks. It

consists of fine particles (less than 2 mm) of complex hydrous silicate.
clearance
The space between a stationary and/or moving object.
Term
Definition
clearance height
The minimum height that a structure should be designed to accommodate

the design vehicle (maximum allowable vehicle heights are generally 0.2 m
less than this height).
clearance time
Time given to allow a terminating movement of vehicles or pedestrians to

vacate the controlled area, before the beginning of the next movement of
traffic (see pedestrian clearance period).
clearing
The removal of vegetation, roots or other obstacles at or above ground

level, prior to the commencement of earthwork, drainage, etc.
clearing interval
The interval of a traffic signal cycle during which traffic executing a

particular movement is warned that availability of that movement is about to
end. The interval is indicated by the display of a yellow aspect to vehicular
traffic and, if provided, a flashing red Don't Walk or its symbolic equivalent
aspect to pedestrian traffic.
clearway
A continuous length of roadway along which vehicles are not permitted to

stop or remain stationary except in an emergency or when necessary to
avoid conflict with other traffic or to comply with the directions of a member
of the police force or a traffic control sign or signal. Certain vehicles may be
exempted from such restrictions.
clear zone
A clear zone is the area adjacent to the traffic lane that should be kept free
from features that would be potentially hazardous to errant vehicles. The
clear zone is a compromise between the recovery area for every errant
vehicle, the cost of providing that area and the probability of an errant
vehicle encountering a hazard. The clear zone should be kept free of nonfrangible hazards where economically and environmentally possible.
Alternatively, hazards within the clear zone should be treated to make them
safe or be shielded by a safety barrier.
climbing lane
An auxiliary lane, usually on a long upgrade, primarily for the use of slow
moving vehicles allowing faster vehicles to pass (see overtaking lane,
passing lane).
cloverleaf
A two-level interchange with eight slip roads to manage turns, so named as

it resembles a four leaf clover on a map. A partial cloverleaf interchange
(parclo) is a modification of a cloverleaf interchange and has four to six slip
roads. Partial cloverleaf provides some of the advantages of a full
cloverleaf but without requiring as much land.
cluster
Several crashes at the one location which are of the same or related
accident type.
coach
Vehicle seating more than nine persons, including the driver, which is
licensed to carry only seated passengers (see light bus and heavy bus).
coarse aggregate
A general term for aggregates substantially retained on a sieve of specified

size, commonly 4.75 mm.
cobblestone
A rounded stone usually between 60 mm and 200 mm in size.
coefficient of run-off
The ratio of the amount of water that runs off a catchment area to the
amount that falls on the catchment.
cohesion
The ability of a material to resist, by means of internal forces, the

separation of its constituent particles.
cohesive soil
A soil with relevant behaviour characteristics derived largely or entirely from

the cohesive bonds associated with the fine fraction.
Term
Definition
cold mix (patching)
A mixture of bituminous binder and aggregate, with or without added

mineral filler, produced warm or cold in a mixing plant and delivered in a
workable condition suitable for stockpiling and spreading and compaction.
It is used in areas where it is impractical to do repair work using hot mix.
cold planing (profiling

milling)
A mechanical method of cold milling a pavement surface to restore the

road to a specified grade and profile by removing corrugations, ruts and
other surface imperfections in preparation for resurfacing.
cold recycling
For asphalt works, the entire existing pavement structure, including in some
cases the underlying untreated base material, is processed in-place or
removed and processed at a mixing plant. The materials are mixed cold
and other materials may be added during mixing to provide a higher
strength base. Includes wet mixing and in situ stabilisation.
collector-distributor road
An auxiliary road, separated laterally from, but generally parallel to, a

through road and joining it at a limited number of points. The road serves to
collect traffic from and distribute traffic to several local roads (see service
road).
collector road
A non-arterial road that collects and distributes traffic in an area as well as

serving abutting property.
column (of aspects)
A combination of signal aspects arranged in a vertical assembly.
combination (NHVR)
A group of vehicles consisting of a motor vehicle such as a prime mover or

rigid truck towing one or more other vehicle units such as a semitrailer or
trailer.
combination device
Any treatment which comprises combinations of vertical and/or horizontal

devices.
combined vehicle
Either a combination of a rigid vehicle and one trailer (other than a semitrailer) or an articulated vehicle.
commercial vehicle (CV)
A motor vehicle constructed specifically to convey goods or passengers in

the course of trade or business. It has at least one axle with dual wheels
and/or more than two axles.
commercial vehicle survey
Survey of commercial vehicle premises to ascertain detailed information on

truck movement (akin to a home-interview survey). Note: Commercial
vehicle surveys are especially useful for validation of traffic models of large
urban areas.
commissioned (RMS ITS)
The act of approving and bringing an asset or system installation into an

operational condition.
compaction
The reduction in volume of a material by inducing closer packing of its

particles by rolling, tamping, vibrating or other processes to reduce the air
voids content.
compaction test
A laboratory test to determine the maximum dry density of a soil or

pavement material under specified test conditions.
competing opportunities
model
Mathematical model for distributing trips based on the assumption that the
trips originating in any zone will distribute themselves to other zones in
proportion to the probability that the trips have not found another
destination at that trip length.
complete (or full) control of

access
The condition in which access is confined to chosen points, and crossing

access at grade and direct access from adjoining property is prohibited.
completely knocked down

(CKD) (RMS ITS)
The full disassembly of a maintainable unit into its components.
Term
Definition
complex modulus
A complex number which defines the relationship between stress and strain
(specifically the lag of the strain behind the stress) for a linear viscoelastic
material subjected to a sinusoidal loading.
compliance plate
Identification plate, as approved by the Administrator of Vehicle Standards

for affixing to the vehicle for which it is approved.
component (RMS ITS)
A constituent module or part within a product, system, subsystem, or piece

of equipment.
component vehicle (NHVR)
The towing vehicle or another vehicle in the combination, for instance a

truck, prime mover, trailer or dolly.
composite pavement
A pavement structure having both flexible and rigid pavement layers.
compound curve
A curve consisting of two or more arcs of different radii curving in the same
direction and having a common tangent point or being joined by a transition
curve.
compound manoeuvre
The crossing, merging, or diverging of multilane traffic streams.
compression test
A test for determining the strength and elasticity of a material in

compression under a specified test condition.
Concept of Operations
(ConOps)
Document describing the characteristics of a proposed system from the

viewpoint of an individual who will use that system; it is used to
communicate the quantitative and qualitative system characteristics to all
stakeholders.
concessional mass limits

(CML) (NHVR)
The mass exception allows tandem and tri-axle groups to be 5% above

general mass limits (GML), with a maximum gross mass increase of 1.0
tonne for a vehicle up to 55.0 tonnes gross mass and 2.0 tonne for a
vehicle exceeding 55.0 tonnes gross mass.
concrete
A mixture of fine and coarse aggregate, water, cement and admixtures.
concrete pavement
A pavement that uses the high modules of concrete to withstand and

dissipate heavy traffic loadings. The wearing surface may be the concrete
itself, or a thin asphalt layer.
concrete pump (NHVR)
A vehicle with a component that can be used to transfer liquid concrete by

pumping.
condition (NHVR)
A condition of access provided by a road manager or the Regulator (in

certain situations). This is a condition directed at:
a) mitigating or avoiding significant risk to public safety; or
b) managing road infrastructure; or
c) managing public amenity, including, for example, managing the impact of
noise, emissions and traffic congestion caused by vehicle use of roads
or road-related areas.
The condition may be attached to a route or road segment e.g. conditions
can include speed and direction specifications, and curfews. Conditions
may also be added by a road manager for the specific task i.e. related to a
permit.
Also see road condition, travel condition and vehicle condition.
conditional acceptance (RMS

ITS)
condition-based
depreciation
Provisional acceptance of a system or services that do not conform

completely to the specifications, under the condition that the contractor will
address any deficiencies in an agreed manner and agreed reasonable
timeframe.
A method of determining depreciation of an asset, based on an
assessment of the physical condition of the asset.
Term
Definition
condition index
An indicator of asset condition, formed by combining a number of condition

parameters, using weightings to reflect the relative contribution of each
condition parameter to decisions about intervention and treatment.
condition monitoring
Continuous or periodic inspection, assessment, measurement, reporting

and interpretation of resulting data to indicate the condition of an asset in
order to determine the need for and nature and timing of maintenance.
condition parameter
A specific characteristic of a pavement that is used to assess its

functionality or condition. Examples include roughness, rutting, cracking,
surface texture, pavement strength (deflection), skid resistance, edge
break, edge drop off, local defects and patching. Reporting can be either by
bins or distress levels (e.g. good, fair, poor, bad, etc.), or on a continuous
numerical scale (IRI, rut depth, crack width, percentage area patched, etc.).
condition state
A combination of distresses and distress levels. To illustrate this concept, if

roughness, rutting and cracking are adopted as condition parameters to
describe a network, each with three distress levels (e.g. good, fair, poor),
then each segment will fall within one of 27 possible condition states (e.g.
roughness good, rutting poor, cracking fair).
condition survey
The process of collecting data pertaining to the structural and functional

condition of a pavement or road asset.
configurability (RMS ITS)
The ability of a maintainable unit (hardware or software) to be changed or

modified to alter, add or remove function without substantially altering its
constitution.
configuration
Physical attributes of an asset that define its capacity and capabilities. For
road assets, configuration may be defined by parameters such as numbers
of carriageways and lanes, surface width, structure type, etc.
confirmation sign
see reassurance sign
conflicting movements
The vehicle or pedestrian traffic streams at intersections, whose paths

cross or merge when moving simultaneously.
conflict point
Point of potential collision between vehicles involved in a manoeuvre.
conflict zone
That area from the point where a vehicle enters an intersection to the last
point of conflict with another legal movement of traffic (including
pedestrians).
congestion charging
Charging vehicles for their use of a congested road or area, with revenues
accruing to the authorities and not necessarily linked to use for road or
transport purposes.
congestion pricing
Pricing of public and private urban road transport until each covers its real
resource costs. Revenues could also be linked to use for road or transport
purposes, e.g. maintenance or construction.
consignee (NHVR)
A consignee of goods
a) means a person who:
has consented to being, and is, named or otherwise identified as the
intended consignee of the goods in the transport documentation
relating to the road transport of the goods; or
actually receives the goods after completion of their road transport;
but
b) does not include a person who merely unloads the goods.
consistency
A general term for the physical state of a semi-fluid or plastic material and
its resistance to deformation or flow.
Term
Definition
consolidation
The process by which soil reduces in volume under load over a period of
time due to the loss of water.
consolidation/deconsolidati
on of freight
Consolidation of smaller freight loads transported by light freight vehicles to

larger freight loads to be transported by heavy road freight vehicles and
rail. Deconsolidation of freight would involve break down of these larger
loads to smaller loads for distribution. Examples could include courier
packages and value added freight.
conspicuity
Describes the degree to which road users, signs etc. are readily observed.
construction (pavement)
Action to provide a new pavement, or to increase either strength or

capacity or both of an existing pavement, beyond the initial as-constructed
values. Pavement construction includes rehabilitation which achieves an
increase in strength or width above the strength or width originally
constructed. Pavement construction provides additional capacity or service
potential, usually to carry increased axle loads (pavement strength) or
traffic volumes (pavement or seal width), and sometimes to improve safety
performance (e.g. widening for turning traffic, sealing shoulders).
construction joint
A joint made during the placement of concrete or pavement base material

to divide the work into parts for convenience during construction or to
provide for unavoidable interruption to placing.
container weight
declaration (NHVR)
A written declaration, whether contained in one or more documents, stating

or purporting to state the weight of a freight container and its contents e.g.
an email, a placard fixed to the container.
containment
The maximum tested vehicle mass used in a set of standard crash tests.
containment fence
Physical barrier sufficient to provide separation between the travelled path,

or paths used by cyclists and pedestrians, from the work area, but not as
rigid as to become a hazard if struck by vehicles, or to act as a safety
barrier.
continuing road
The road (except a road-related area) that meets the terminating road at
the T-intersection.
continuity line
A longitudinal broken line of distinctive pattern, which may be used to

indicate the edge of that portion of a carriageway assigned to through traffic
and which is intended to be crossed by traffic turning at an intersection, or
entering or leaving a freeway at an interchange.
continuous flow
intersection (CFI)
An at-grade intersection that moves the turn conflict (to the right where
traffic drives on the left) out of the main intersection. A CFI moves the rightturn down the road eliminating the right-turn traffic signal phase.
continuous grading (well

graded)
A grading or particle size distribution where all sizes or fractions from the
maximum particle size down are represented. The grading curve has a
smooth concave shape without abrupt changes in slope.
continuously reinforced
concrete pavement
(CRCP)
A concrete pavement containing relatively heavy longitudinal reinforcement

and having no transverse joints.
contraction joint
A provision made in a structure or pavement to allow contraction of

components, induced by temperature change or other causes, to occur in a
controlled manner (e.g. a groove in concrete).
contract level
The level shown on the drawings representing the extent of the work in the
piles and footings (e.g. toe of a pile).
Term
Definition
contraflow
Traffic flow in a direction opposite to the normal flow. For example, a

contraflow bus lane might be one that runs the wrong way on a one-way
street.
contraflow bicycle lane
A bicycle lane deployed on one (left) side of a one-way street serving

cyclists travelling against what is otherwise the legal direction of travel.
controlled access road
A road for through traffic to which access from abutting properties or joining
roads is controlled.
controlled area
That portion of a carriageway or intersection, the entry into which is

controlled by traffic signals.
controller
The equipment (including the housing) that switches power to signal

lanterns and controls the duration and sequence of signal displays.
Also see vehicle controller.
controller algorithm
Programmed logic sequence internal to the controller, which transforms

operator input and traffic demands into traffic control signal sequences.
controller personality
A unique program that configures the controller to the specific operational

design of the intersection or mid-block device it is controlling, including
specifications of which signal groups run in each phase, the sequence of
phases, detector functions, detector alarm conditions and default time
settings.
controller programming
The task of configuring a controller to the specific requirements of a

particular site. Also called adaptive engineering.
controller settings
User-defined control parameters within a traffic controller that determine

signal timings (together with current traffic demands in the case of a trafficactuated controller).
control line
A line, generally at or near the centre line of a road, on which design is

based and from which measurements for setting out construction may be
conveniently made.
control point
A point at or near the entrance or exit from a car park at which the flow of
traffic is retarded by the existence of a boom barrier, with or without ticket
or cashier operation, or the location of the first of any spaces on a
circulation aisle at which parking manoeuvres may cause traffic flow to be
retarded.
conventional bitumen
emulsion
A bitumen emulsion with a bitumen content of 60%.
converted traffic
Component of traffic that has changed its mode of travel, e.g. from train to
car.
converter dolly (NHVR)
A pig trailer with a fifth wheel coupling designed to convert a semitrailer into
a dog trailer.
cooperative ITS (C-ITS)
Platform that can be applied to vehicles and roadside infrastructure to

enable direct two-way communication. Includes vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V)
and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications.
coordinated alignment
see alignment coordination
coordinated control
The operation of a traffic signal system where the control of individual

signal installations is inter-related, usually to enable platoons of vehicles to
travel through several sets of signals without having to stop.
coordination
The operation of a traffic signal system where the control of individual

installations is interrelated by means of a wide area control system, local
interlinking or cableless linking.
Term
Definition
copolymer
A polymer that contains two or more kinds of polymer molecules, e.g. SBS,
SBR, EVA.
CoR
see Chain of Responsibility
cordon
1.
The boundary of the area being studied in a cordon count.
2.
Imaginary line drawn around a given study area at which traffic counts and
interviews may be taken.
cordon count
A count of all traffic entering or leaving an area by all routes.
cordon line
see cordon
cordon station
Location on a road crossing the cordon line at which information is obtained

concerning the movement of vehicles.
cordon survey
Survey of traffic crossing a cordon line, which is designed to obtain trip data
on vehicles and/or persons travelling into, out of, or through a study area.
core
A cylindrical sample drilled out of soil, concrete, rock or a pavement for

testing purposes.
corner cube reflector
A delineator consisting of retroreflective elements, usually acrylic, in which

the retroreflection is achieved by three planes mutually at right angles, and
used on pavements, guide posts and other roadside objects.
corner cut-off
The truncation of property boundaries adjacent to an intersection.
corner kerb radius
The radius of the corner kerb between adjacent entry and exit roadways.
correction course
A course of varying thickness applied to a pavement surface to adjust its

shape prior to overlay with another course such as a sprayed seal.
corrective maintenance
An activity undertaken to identify and isolate a fault in order that a

maintainable unit may be repaired or the component replaced to restore the
system to normal and complete operation.
(RMS ITS)
corridor
A major area of travel between two points. It may include more than one
major route and more than one form of transport.
corrosion (oxidation)
The chemical or electrochemical reaction between a material, usually a

metal, and its environment (oxygen and water) that produces a
deterioration of the material and its properties.
corrugation
Transverse undulations on the road surface, closely and regularly spaced,

with wavelengths less than 2 m. Often occurs in unsealed roads devoid of
clay binder.
cost-benefit analysis (CBA)
see economic costs and benefits
cost-effectiveness
An economic measure defined as the effectiveness of an action or

treatment divided by the present worth of life-cycle costs.
coupling
A mechanical assembly that provides a connection between the drawbar of

a trailer and the towbar of the drawing vehicle.
course (pavement layer)
One or more layers of the same material within a pavement structure.
cover
1.
The depth of material between the surface of the ground or pavement and
the top of a culvert or pipe.
2.
The thickness of concrete between a reinforcing bar, tendon or duct, and

the nearest surface of a concrete member.
3.
The depth of material over the subgrade or any layer in the pavement
structure.
Term
Definition
coverage
The measure of the rate per unit area, either by volume or mass, at which a
material is applied to a pavement structure or surface.
cowl
see visor
crack
An irregular, unplanned opening which is essentially vertical and of various

widths which may intersect with others, oriented longitudinally (that is in the
direction of traffic) wandering transversely or a combination.
crack and seat
A process by which a concrete pavement is broken into blocks, followed by

the application of a heavy roller to seat the blocks.
cracking
A pavement defect signified by vertical splitting of the pavement material

due to the action of traffic loading, environmental stress or material
characteristics. It is usually identified as visible discontinuities at the
surface, not necessarily extending through the entire thickness of a
member or pavement.
crack sealing
The filling and/or bridging of cracks, usually in the pavement surface or in a

concrete structure.
crash
An apparently unpremeditated event which results in death or injury to a

person or property damage and is attributable to the movement of a road
vehicle on a public road (including vehicles entering or leaving a public road).
crash attenuator
Devices that prevent an errant vehicle from impacting hazardous objects by

gradually decelerating the vehicle to a safe stop or by directing the vehicle
away from the hazard. They are often used as the end treatment on the
leading end of a road safety barrier system.
crash costs
Crash costs include human costs, vehicle costs and general costs. In the
current Australian context, human costs are estimated based on the
'human capital' approach, which values loss of human life based on lost
potential human output or productivity. Loss of quality of life is also taken
into account, although it is not traditionally considered in the 'human capital
approach'. Medical costs, coronial costs, legal and correctional services
costs are all incorporated in human costs. In the New Zealand context,
crash costs are estimated based on the 'willingness to pay' approach,
which values the loss of a human life (or interruption to optimal health) in
terms of the amount that people are willing to pay to reduce risk to their
lives. Vehicle costs incurred in repairing damage to the vehicles involved
and loss of productivity due to vehicle unavailability and general costs
include other property damage, police costs, insurance costs etc.
crash cushion
An energy absorption device installed in front of a rigid object to reduce the

severity of impact.
crash location
A location where a limited range of crash types occurs repeatedly,

suggesting that there are common causes, rather than the accidents being
the result of mere chance.
crash modification factor

(CMF)
Representation of the relative change in crash frequency that occurs due to

a specific change in the road or its immediate environment.
crash rates
A crash rate is a ratio of the number of crashes to some common

denominator, usually vehicle kilometres travelled, head of population or
period of time. Crash rates allow more meaningful comparisons to be made
between crash locations.
crash reduction factor

(CRF)
Indication of the expected percentage reduction in road crashes following

the introduction of a countermeasure.
Term
Definition
crash risk migration
Road safety engineering concept that the undertaking of a countermeasure

at one location may influence the road safety risk at another location in that
road network.
crash type
The codified description of road user movements occurring in a crash.

During the coding of information from the crash report form, each crash is
given a code (usually known as a DCA code in Australia and a Vehicle
Movement Code, or VMC, in New Zealand) indicating the movements the
involved road users were making when the crash occurred.
crashworthiness
The ability of a vehicle structure to protect its occupants during an impact.
creep
The slow plastic deformation of a material under stress.
crest curve
see summit curve

A retaining wall consisting of interlocking members placed in alternative
longitudinal or transverse skeletal layers to form a row of open cells which
are filled with earth or rocks.
crib wall
critical acceptance gap
The minimum gap in a traffic stream acceptable to drivers wishing to join or

cross that stream, or to drivers in the opposing stream wishing to overtake.
critical density
The traffic density on a given road or carriageway when the traffic volume
is at capacity.
critical fault (RMS ITS)
A fault which would cause an unacceptable level of risk of harm to the

system.
Also see fault, intermittent fault and repetitive fault
critical intersection
The intersection in a coordinated signal system that operates with the

highest overall degree of saturation during a given period.
critical lane
The lane in a lane group or approach that has the highest degree of
saturation and places the highest demand on green time.
critical movements
The set of movements that determine the capacity and timing requirements
of a signalised intersection.
Critical Tip Opening

Displacement (CTOD) Test
A ductility test where a notched binder specimen is elongated at a set

speed and test temperature.
criticality (RMS ITS)
A relative measure of the consequence of a failure mode and its frequency

of occurrence.
crocodile cracking (alligator

cracking)
Interconnected cracks forming a series of small blocks resembling a

crocodiles skin or chicken-wire, normally caused by excessive deflection of
the surface over unstable/weak subgrade or lower courses of the pavement.
cross-anisotropic
A term used in relation to pavements having properties in the vertical plane

different from those in the horizontal plane.
cross beam (cross girder)
Transverse beam, used to support longitudinal members, such as girders,

planks, stringers, etc.
crossfall
The slope, measured at right angles to the alignment, of the surface of any
part of a carriageway.
crosshead
Part of a pier or abutment spanning between columns or piles that support

the superstructure.
crossing
A formal area set aside for specific modes of transport or animals to cross
the road; usually called cycle crossing, pedestrian crossing, railway
crossing, as appropriate.
Term
Definition
crossing sight distance
Sight distance required to enable traffic to start from rest and safely cross
one or more traffic streams
crossroad
A road that crosses another road.
cross-section
A vertical section, generally at right angles to the centreline showing the

ground. On drawings it commonly shows the road to be constructed, or as
constructed.
cross-stitch (concrete)
A process of drilling alternately inclined holes into concrete across a

crack/longitudinal joint and affixing a tie bar for the purposes of tying
adjacent concrete faces to prevent the crack/joint from further widening.
The tie bar is also subjected to shear forces when in service.
crosswalk lines
Continuous or broken lines marked transversely across the road to define

the limits of a signalised crossing (see marked foot crossing, signalised
crossing).
crown
The highest point on the cross-section of a carriageway with two-way

crossfall.
cruising speed
Vehicle speed achievable on a section of road uninterrupted by control

devices but affected by side friction, road geometry and traffic volume.
crumb rubber
Rubber particles manufactured from waste or reclaimed rubber products

such as vehicle tyres and graded to conform to a specified size range.
Used in bitumen to improve binder properties.
crumb rubber modified seal

(CRM seal)
A sprayed seal in which the binder consists of bitumen modified by the

incorporation of crumb rubber.
crumple zone
A structural feature of a vehicle designed to compress during an accident

designed to absorb energy from an impact. Typically, crumple zones are
located in the front part of the vehicle, in order to absorb the impact of a
head-on crash, though they may be found on other parts of the vehicle as
well.
crushed aggregate
An aggregate having fractured faces and obtained from the crushing of

hard rock. The size of aggregate particles is not necessarily uniform.
crushed rock
An aggregate made by crushing rock, as distinct from crushed gravel.
crushed sand
A fine aggregate which is produced by the crushing of specific rock types.
crusher
Equipment which is used to reduce larger stone and gravel to smaller,

usable sizes.
crusher dust
The dust or fines, usually 2 to 4 mm in size, produced by the crushing of

gravel or rock.
crusher run
An aggregate prepared by crushing without subsequent screening.
crust
The fines-bound top skin of an unsealed road.
cubical aggregate particles
An aggregate particle which is approximately cube-shaped.
culvert
One or more adjacent pipes or enclosed channels for conveying surface

water or a stream below formation level.
cure (of an emulsion)
The increase in cohesive strength of a bituminous binder following

application in emulsified form, usually due to the progressive loss of water
and other volatile materials following emulsion break.
Term
Definition
curfew
Regulation which typically establishes strict control of movement after

nightfall. Curfews are issued to certain types of heavy vehicles in certain
areas at certain times of day to alleviate congestion or noise issues. Some
jurisdictions apply curfews as a penalty for violating licence conditions and
some jurisdictions apply curfews to probationary/provisional licence
holders.
curing
The facilitation of the achievement of the desired end state of concrete or

other material (e.g. strength) through the provision of a suitable
environment.
curing compound
A substance sprayed or painted onto any concrete or pavement surface to

retard loss of moisture during hardening.
curing membrane
A membrane enclosing concrete to retard loss of moisture during

hardening.
curtain wall

curvature function
The difference in the maximum deflection at a test site and the deflection at
an offset of 200 mm from the point at which the maximum deflection was
measured. It is used to estimate pavement stiffness and the likelihood of
fatigue cracking of an asphalt layer.
curvilinear alignment
Alignment which is a continuous curve with constant, gradual and smooth

changes of direction.
customer data (NHVR)
Any information or data owned by, stored by, created by or derived from
information held by the Customer. This includes all data used to configure
and operate the Products and Services in the Customers environment, and
all data acquired or generated as a result of operating the Products and
Services.
cut
The depth from the natural surface of the ground to the subgrade level.
cutback bitumen
Bitumen to which cutter oil (kerosene) has been added to achieve a

temporary reduction in viscosity.
cut-down kerb
A kerb that has been cut down for vehicle or pedestrian crossing.
cut-off drain
An interceptor drain constructed along the top of a cutting or batter to

prevent surface water running down the face.
cut-off layer
A layer of aggregate or synthetic fibre (geosynthetic) used to prevent clay

intrusion into the road pavement.
cut-out
An opening which allows water to escape from the carriageway or channel

to a drain or water course.
cut-out drain
An open drain or ditch formed to drain water from the surface water
channel to a side drain or natural water course.
cutter (kerosene)
A light petroleum distillate added to bitumen to temporarily reduce its

viscosity (cutback bitumen).
cutting
That portion of the road where the finished road surface is below the
natural surface level.
CWD
see container weight declaration
cycle
A complete sequence of signal phases.
cycle crossing
see crossing
cycle lane
see bicycle lane
Term
Definition
cycle length
Time required for one complete sequence of signal displays (sum of phase
green and intergreen times). For a given movement, cycle time is the sum
of the durations of red, yellow and green signal displays, or sum of effective
green and red times.
cycle path
see bicycle path
cycle route
see bicycle route
cycle time
The time required for one complete sequence of aspects.
cycle way
1.
Portion of a road or footpath devoted to the use of bicycles (see bicycle lane).
2.
An access way designed specifically for use by bicycles
cyclist
Rider of a bicycle or human-powered vehicle.
D&C
see design and construct form of project/contract delivery
damage (bridges)
The sudden worsening of the condition of a bridge, its elements and

component materials due to the effect of a sudden event such as a fire,
flood, impact, accident or vandalism.
dangerous failure (RMS ITS)
A failure which has the potential to put a safety-related system in a

hazardous state or a state unable to function. Whether or not the potential
is realised may depend on the architecture of the system. In systems with
multiple fall back or fail safe modes to improve safety, a dangerous
hardware failure is less likely to lead to the overall dangerous or fail-to
function state.
Also see failure, failure mode, failure rate, primary failure, random failure,
safe failure mode, secondary failure, single point of failure and systematic
failure.
datum
A defined horizontal or level plane to which the relative elevations of other

points may be referred.
DBFO
see design, build, finance and operate form of project/contract delivery
DCA
see definitions for coding accidents
dead head
see dead running-time
dead running time
Trip made with no passengers or no load. For example, a bus may dead
run to a suburban terminus in the morning or a road transport vehicle may
dead run back to a depot.
deceleration lane
An auxiliary lane provided to allow vehicles to decrease speed.
deck
The bridge floor directly carrying traffic loads.
deck units
Load bearing deck members which comprise the bridge deck.
dedicated short-range
communications (DSRC)
A wireless (radio) communications approach that enables short-range

communications between vehicles and between vehicles and the roadside
for a variety of purposes.
dedicated vehicle
combination
A family of vehicles consisting of prime movers and semi-trailers, designed

to be used together exclusively.
deep lift (asphalt)
A paving technique whereby asphalt is placed in a lift of at least 75 mm

compacted thickness.
deep lift stabilisation
A pavement construction technique whereby in situ stabilisation is carried

out to depths in excess of 250 mm.
Term
Definition
deep strength asphalt

pavement
A pavement structure in which the wearing course and a substantial portion

of the base consist of asphalt.
defect
Visible evidence of an undesirable condition in the pavement affecting

serviceability, structural capacity or appearance.
defective heavy vehicle
A heavy vehicle that:
(NHVR)
a) contravenes the heavy vehicle standards; or

b) has a part that:
does not perform its intended function; or
has deteriorated to an extent that it cannot be reasonably relied on to
perform its intended function.
defects liability (RMS ITS)
A limited period of time after a project has been completed during which a
party is responsible to remedy defects.
defensive driving
Defensive driving involves learning to anticipate trouble on the road before

it happens.
deferred maintenance
A maintenance activity which, in accordance with a stated strategy and/or

agreed maintenance intervention levels, should be carried out in the current
year, but is not funded.
definitions for coding

accidents (DCA)
An Australian system for coding accident types.
deflection
1.
The amount of deviation away from the straight line of travel.
2.
The vertical movement of a member or pavement due to the application of a

load. It is an indication of the rate at which permanent deformation will occur
under traffic, or due to other environmental or physical factors, over time.
deflection bowl
A representation of the shape of the elastic deformation of the pavement

surface when a load is applied.
deflectograph
A vehicle having a dual-tyred single rear axle carrying a standard axle load
and equipped with a measuring device to enable pavement surface
deflections under both rear wheel tracks to be measured and recorded at 4 m
intervals as the vehicle travels slowly over the pavement. The load is moved
towards the point at which the deflection (or loading bowl') is measured.
degradation
The changes in the mineral fragments of a pavement caused by rubbing or

grinding against each of them within the mass.
degradation factor
A measure of the ability of an aggregate to withstand deterioration due to

environment conditions. It can be measured by a number of ad hoc tests,
the best known being the Washington degradation factor-source rock test.
degree of saturation (DOS)
The ratio, usually expressed as a percentage, of the number of vehicles

entering an intersection in a specified period, to the number which could
enter if an approach was fully saturated (i.e. at capacity) during that period.
delamination
The lifting of the surfacing because of failure of the bond between the
surface and the underlying layers.
delay
The additional travel time experienced by a vehicle or pedestrian with

reference to a base travel time (e.g. the free flow travel time).
delineation
Treatments that enhance the selection of the appropriate path and speed,
or position, to allow a manoeuvre to be carried out safely and efficiently,
e.g. linemarking, raised pavement markers, traffic cones and flaps and
post-mounted reflectors.
Term
Definition
delineator
A device, other than a simple post, used to indicate the edge of the
formation, carriageway or traffic lane.
demand
1.
The registration of the presence of vehicle or pedestrian traffic waiting for

the right-of-way.
2.
The traffic volume desiring to travel along a given route.
demand flow
The number of vehicles or pedestrians arriving during a given period as

measured at the back of the queue (as distinct from departure flows
measured in front of the queue).
Also see flow rate, traffic count and traffic volume.
demand management
The active intervention in the market to influence the demand for services
and the assets generated and/or used in the supply of these services in
order to best match available resources to real needs and to ensure the
services provided are delivered with the best value for money.
demand responsive
transport
System providing radio control despatched door-to-door or point-to-point

service. The vehicle is usually summoned by phone and routed by
computer or manual means to respond to a number of calls; it may also
operate on a fixed-route with diversions to pick up passengers upon
telephone requests. It provides service to travellers with different origins
and destinations and may also include permanent bookings on a
subscription basis.
demerit points scheme
The demerit points scheme is a national program that allocates penalty

points (demerits) for a range of driving offences. Along with financial
penalties, demerit points provide a strong incentive to drive within the law.
Different offences have a different number of demerit points. A driver who
has not committed any offences has zero points. When an offence that
carries demerit points is committed, the road authority records the offence
and the points on the licence holders driving record. If a certain number of
demerit points in a given timeframe are accumulated, their licence will be
suspended or application for renewal refused.
dense-graded asphalt
A mixture of coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, filler and bitumen, placed

hot and compacted to a dense state as a pavement layer or resurfacing.
departure angle
The angle at which the vehicle leaves a road safety barrier after initial
impact.
depreciation
The proportion of an asset consumed during an accounting period.
depression
A road fault in which the road surface has sunk.
design and construct form

of project/contract delivery
(D&C)
This is a project delivery method whereby the contractor takes

responsibility for both the design and construction of the project based on a
concept and requirements specified by the owner.
designated level of service
The level of service for a given type or class of road within the designated
service requirements based on road users needs for access and levels of
pavement condition appropriate to the designated function of the
pavement.
design, build, finance &

operate form of
project/contract delivery
(DBFO)
The responsibilities for designing, building, financing and operating are

bundled together and transferred to private sector partners.
design distress
One or more failure criteria used by the pavement design process that
ensures that the terminal distress is not reached before the cumulative
traffic load has reached the design traffic.
Term
Definition
designed surface level
A required level of the road as a basis for construction which is generally

located on a control line, such as a base centreline, a true centreline or
other nominated line.
design hour volume (DHV) 1. The number of vehicles expected to use the highway adopted for the
purpose of design, normally expressed as the number of vehicles per hour.
2.
The number of vehicles per hour for which the road is designed.
design life
The period during which the performance of an asset is expected to remain

at the intended service level without replacement, refurbishment or
significant maintenance.
Also see economic life, technical life and useful life.
design load
The load distribution, or combination of loads, for which a structure is

designed.
design moisture content
The highest moisture content of the subgrade soils likely to be reached for
a significant period during the design life of the road.
design period
A period considered appropriate to the function of the road or bridge. It is

used to determine the total traffic for which the pavement or bridge is
designed.
design process
Process for arriving at a final design for a transport project and normally
divided into three distinct phases: 1. Functional Design: Preparation of the
conceptual design with enough detail to ensure that the design will function
as intended. 2. Preliminary Design: Finalisation of design in terms of
calculations, specifications and estimates such that all aspects of the
design are determined. 3. Documentation: Preparation of plans and
documents describing the design sufficiently for it to be constructed.
design queue length
The predicted maximum length of a vehicle queue in a particular lane or

lanes at an intersection during a period of peak traffic flow.
design speed
A speed fixed for the design and correlation of those geometric features of
a carriageway that influence vehicle operation. Design speed should not be
less than the intended 85th percentile speed.
design standard
Identifies particular standards used in the design, e.g. standard lane width.
design subgrade level
The level of the prepared formation after completion of stripping and

excavation or filling and upon which the pavement is to be constructed.
design traffic
The cumulative traffic, often expressed in terms of equivalent standard axle

loads, predicted to use a road or bridge over the structural design life of the
pavement or bridge.
design vehicle
The hypothetical road vehicle whose mass, dimensions and operating

characteristics are used to establish aspects of the road geometry layout.
design volume
The number of vehicles expected to use the road and adopted for the
purposes of geometric design, normally expressed as vehicles per hour or
per day.
design year
The year in which traffic volumes are anticipated to reach a pre-selected

level.
desired speed
The speed over a section of a road adopted by a driver or drivers as

influenced by the road geometry and other environmental factors.
desire line
Route chosen by cyclists or pedestrians irrespective of the presence of a

route, path or other facility.
Term
Definition
desire-line diagram
Diagram made up of many desire lines, the width or density of which

represents the volume of trips moving between an origin and a destination.
detection rate (DR)
The rate of detecting an event.
detector
A device by which the presence and/or passage of vehicles or pedestrians

is registered.
detector loop
One or more loops of wire embedded in the road surface used to detect
vehicles.
deterioration (bridges)
The gradual worsening of the condition of a bridge, its elements and

component materials due to the effects of traffic and other loadings, the
action of the environment on the structure and/or the actions of the
constituents of component materials over a period of time.
deterioration (pavement)
The wear process under which the functional and/or structural capability of
a pavement decreases as a result of traffic, climate and environmental
effects.
deterioration rate
The rate of change in asset condition from one year to another. As the rate
typically varies over time it may also be referred to as the deterioration
curve.
deterministic model
Model that produces a mathematically exact solution.
detour
An alternative route open to traffic during temporary closure of a road or

path.
development length (road

safety barrier)
A length of unanchored road safety barrier, in advance of the point of need,

that is necessary to provide sufficient mass for the barrier within the length
of need to perform in accordance with its design parameters.
deviation
An alteration to the alignment of a portion of a road, usually involving

significant departure from the existing route.
device
An individual engineering treatment inserted into a street carriageway.
DGPS
see differential global positioning system
diagonal marking
see chevron marking
dial-a-bus
see demand responsive transport
dial-a-ride
see demand responsive transport
diamond interchange
An interchange with single ramps in all four quadrants, generally providing

for all turning movements.
Also see half-diamond interchange.
diamond overlap phasing
Phasing that allows right turns from opposing directions to operate either
simultaneously, or independently with the through movement on the same
approach, depending on demand for the right turns and conflicting through
movements.
diamond turn
A right turning manoeuvre in which opposing vehicle movements from the

same road pass on the right of each other.
diaphragm
A transverse stiffening member girder webs or inside a hollow pier (see end
beam).
differential friction level
The difference in skid resistance e.g. SCRIM coefficient (SC) values

between wheelpaths in the same lane. Large differences in skid resistance
could result in vehicle spin when braking.
differential global
positioning system (DGPS)
A service that achieves greater position accuracy than GPS through

broadcasts of corrections to GPS signals.
Term
Definition
differential settlement
The uneven sinking of the foundations of a structure.
dilutent
A substance which has the effect of reducing viscosity when added to

bitumen e.g., cutter oil, flux oil or anti-stripping agent.
directional detector
A traffic detector capable of being actuated only by vehicles proceeding in

one direction.
directional hazard marker
A rectangular sign marked with a series of alternate black and white bands
in the form of a chevron, to indicate the direction to be taken at a hazard.
directional interchange
An interchange, generally between two freeways or expressways, providing

direct connections for some or all right turning movements.
directional split
1.
The ratio of the one-way traffic volume on a road in the major direction to
that in the minor direction during a specified period.
2.
A comparison of the volume of peak period traffic travelling in each direction

along the road expressed as a percentage of the two-way volume, e.g.
70/30; that is 70% travels in the peak direction, 30% in the opposite direction.
direction sign
A sign to direct traffic along a route or towards a destination.
disaggregate model
Mathematical model of travel behaviour related to individual traveller

characteristics.
discharge
The volumetric rate of water flow.
discount rate
The rate used in economic analysis to convert current dollar values of costs
which occur in a future year to a present value in the base year.
dish drain
A shallow paved drain which conveys water across a road.
displaced right turn (DRT)
Enables one or more conflicting movements to take place away from the
main intersection at a new crossover intersection, reducing the number of
conflicts at the central node.
display
A signal aspect that is illuminated.
display sequence
The order in which traffic signal displays occur (see phase sequence).
disposable parts (RMS ITS)
A non-repairable product or component designed for a single use or

relatively short term use after which it is recycled or is disposed of.
distance marker
A sign used to indicate the distance to or from more important towns along
a route.
distress
An accumulation of defects.
distress level
A form of reporting for condition, using bins (e.g. good, fair, poor, etc.), as
distinct from a continuous numerical scale.
distress to date
The distress that an in-service pavement exhibits at a given date.
distributor road
A non-arterial road that collects and distributes traffic in an area, as well as

serving abutting property (see road, collector road).
disutility of travel
Measure of dissatisfaction as perceived by a consumer, which is used in

economics as the cost of making a trip and is used in travel models for the
same purpose.
diverging
The dividing of a single stream of traffic into separate streams.
diversion assignment
Process of allocating the total number of trips between two zones to

minimum impedance and flow as determined by the assignment.
diverted traffic
Component of traffic which has changed its route but not its origin,
destination, or mode of travel.
Term
Definition
divided carriageway
A road with a separate carriageway for each direction of travel created by

placing some physical obstruction, such as a median or barrier, between
the opposing traffic directions.
divided road
A highway or road with separated carriageways for traffic travelling in

opposite directions.
dividing line
A road marking formed by a line, or two parallel lines, whether broken or

continuous, designed to indicate the parts of the road to be used by
vehicles travelling in opposite directions.
dividing strip
An area or structure that divides a road lengthways, but does not include a
nature strip, bicycle path, footpath or shared path.
DMS
see dynamic message sign
dog trailer
A trailer (including a trailer consisting of a semi-trailer and converter dolly)

with one axle group or single axle at the front that is steered by connection
to the towing vehicle by a drawbar, and one axle group or single axle at the
rear.
dolly
see converter dolly
domestic property
A property comprising up to three residences (see residential property).
dominant stream
The traffic stream or lane of a multi-lane entry to a roundabout which has

the greatest flow at that entry.
do-nothing alternative
Planning option of leaving the transport system as it already exists, with the
possible exception of minor traffic control and safety improvements.
DOS
see degree of saturation
double/double seal
A seal consisting of two successive applications of binder each followed by

an application of aggregate.
double road train
see A-double
double-sided road safety

barrier
A road safety barrier designed for impact on both sides.
double-trailer combination
A vehicle consisting of an articulated vehicle and a trailer which is either a

dog trailer or a semi-trailer plus a converter dolly. A 20 m double-trailer
combination is one restricted to 20 m in overall length.
dowel
A short, straight, plain reinforcing bar embedded into two adjacent blocks or
slabs of concrete to permit relative horizontal movement in the direction of
the dowel and hence prevent relative vertical movement between adjacent
blocks.
dowel bars
Dowel bars for pavement structures are located centrally in the base to
transfer wheel loads across a transverse construction joint. The (plain
steel) bars vary in size according to the thickness of the base. Dowel bars
for bridge structures are designed to permit relative movement in the
direction of the dowel.
downstream
The direction along a carriageway towards which the vehicle flow under
consideration is moving.
DR
see detection rates
drag
A process whereby surface irregularities are evened out through the use of
a drag.
drag broom
A frame carrying several broom heads used for levelling or redistributing

sealing aggregate.
Term
Definition
drain
A channel formed at the surface or a culvert, pipe or other similar

construction for drainage.
drainage
The natural or artificial means of intercepting and removing surface or subsurface water, usually by gravity.
drainage layer
An unstabilised, or bitumen and/or cement stabilised, open-graded

pavement layer, usually 100 to 150 mm thick, and connected to a positive
drainage system.
drawbar
That part of a trailer (except a semi-trailer) connecting the trailer body to a

coupling for towing purposes.
DRIP
see dynamic route information panel
driver comfort
The level of vibration that a vehicles driver is exposed to during a working

shift that leads to reduced comfort and decreased proficiency, and
contributes to driver fatigue.
driver fatigue
Insufficient sleep, disrupted circadian patterns and extended periods of

concentration and/or discomfort can lead to problems with fatigue including:
slow reactions and decisions; slow control movements; hallucinations;
decreased tolerance for other road users; poor lane tracking and
maintenance of headway speed; and loss of situational awareness.
Because fatigue is not easily quantifiable, the importance of fatigue as a
cause of crashes is almost certainly underestimated in crash investigations.
driver improvement
program
Typically a classroom based group educational meeting aimed at improving

a road user's attitude to driving and encouraging adoption of defensive
driving tactics. Drivers are typically recruited into the program if they
accumulate a certain number of demerit points.
driver licence
Document or card entitling the bearer to drive in the specified jurisdictions,

abiding by any conditions listed on the licence and any applicable road rules.
driveway
A defined area used by vehicles travelling between a public carriageway

and a property adjacent or near to the road.
driveway link
An extended form of slow point stretching for two or more property

frontages that provides a greater visual and physical impact on the street
than a standard slow point.
driving experience
Cumulative amount of time spent driving and the variety of situations that a
driver has been exposed to. Increased driving experience is associated
with decreased crash risk and therefore most Australian states now impose
a minimum number of hours of driving experience before a learner driver is
eligible to take the driver licence test.
driving time
see travel time
DRM
see dynamic road marking
DRT
see displaced right turn
dry density
The ratio of the dry mass of a sample of material to its undried volume
(including voids).
DSRC
see dedicated short-range communications
DTSM
see dynamic traffic speed management
dual primary signal face
The signal face mounted on a post either on the median at or near the right
of the stop line, or if there is no median or the median is too narrow, to the
right and near the projection of the stop line (see primary signal face).
Term
Definition
dual secondary signal face
The signal face mounted on a post on the downstream side to the right of
that approach, in addition to the secondary signal face located on the
median.
dual use path
Now referred to as a shared use path or shared path.
ductility
The ability of a material to be elongated without rupture, when stretched

under standard test conditions.
dummy joint
The groove cut or formed in the surface of a concrete slab or asphalt to

form a line along which the slab will tend to crack rather than elsewhere.
durability
The maintenance of performance properties of bitumen and bituminous

materials to traffic, weather and other external factors. For bitumen, the
measurement under standard specified test conditions of the long-term
effect of heat and air is known as the durability and is based on the
accelerated aging of bitumen to determine the time required for it to reach a
specified viscosity level that has been associated with distress in pavement
surfacings.
dwell-time
For public transport, the time for which a vehicle or vessel is stationary at a
stop, station or wharf.
dynamic cone
penetrometer (DCP)
A hand-operated device for measuring the resistance of a soil to

penetration by a steel cone. The steel cone is connected to a rod and
driven into the ground by a drop hammer. From this test, the field CBR and
allowable bearing capacity can be estimated.
dynamic deflection
The largest transverse deflection of a road safety barrier system during an

actual crash or during a full-scale impact test (i.e. the amount the road
safety barrier deflects from its initial position during impact.
dynamic load coefficient

(DLC)
The parameter used to characterise the magnitude of the wheel forces

applied by a moving vehicle to a pavement or structure.
dynamic message signs

(DMS)
The signs communicate real-time traffic information, allowing motorists to

make quick decisions in response to roadway or adverse weather
conditions.
dynamic road marking

(DRM)
Consist of road markers or studs which can emit light. These systems give
highway engineers the ability to change the use, priority and even the
direction of travel to suit the real-time demands of traffic management.
dynamic route information

panel (DRIP)
A DRIP usually indicates if there are queues on the various routes to a

particular destination, how long they are, and sometimes what the
estimated journey time is. This is intended to influence the route choice and
thus to improve the traffic flow.
dynamic shear rheometer

(DSR)
An instrument that measures the rheological properties, such as

deformation and flow characteristics, of bituminous binders.
dynamic traffic speed

management (DTSM)
The management of speeds in a traffic stream according to prevailing traffic

flow conditions with the aim of improving safety and efficiency of vehicle
movements.
dynamic viscosity
The ratio of shear stress to shear (strain) rate of a fluid.
dynamic wheel forces

(dynamic load)
The wheel forces applied by a moving vehicle passing over a pavement or

structure having random roughness.
Term
Definition
early cut-off
The phase interval used at the end of a phase for allowing the termination
of some signal groups earlier than others.
early cut-off feature
A feature of a traffic signal controller whereby a certain traffic movement is

terminated earlier than other movements on the same phase.
earthworks
1.
All operations involved in loosening, removing, depositing, shaping and

compacting soil or rock.
2.
The structure resulting from this operation.
ecological sustainable
development (ESD)
The use, conservation and enhancement of the communitys resources so

that the ecological processes on which life depends are maintained and the
present and future total quality of life can be sustained.
economic analysis
Means of analysing investment or policy decisions by comparing the

benefits and costs of such decisions as far as practicable in monetary
terms. Future costs and benefits are discounted to represent present day
values
economic costs and

benefits
Total costs and benefits to the community irrespective of whether actual

financial flows are involved. Economic costs and benefits should exclude
transfer payments (such as taxes and subsidies) and these are removed
from market prices to reflect resource costs. All costs and benefits are
analysed in real terms.
economic life
The lesser of the following:

1. the estimated number of years from the post construction opening to
traffic or rehabilitation/replacement condition, which gives the minimum
possible life-cycle cost, in present value terms that account for the
operational costs of maintenance, rehabilitation and road user costs to
achieve a designated level of service.
2. the estimated number of years from the post construction opening to
traffic or rehabilitation/replacement condition to reach a predetermined
threshold value of a range of distresses beyond which the pavement is
no longer acceptable for use (i.e. the estimated service life).
edge break
A pavement surface defect in which the edge of the bituminous surface is

fretted, broken or irregular.
edge drop-off
A pavement defect where the vertical distance from the surface at the edge
of a seal to the surface of the shoulder exceeds acceptable limits (e.g. 1015 mm).
edge line
1.
A line marked along the road at or near the far left or far right side of the
road (except any road-related area of the road). Also known as pavement
edge line.
2.
A line marking to indicate the outer edge of the vehicle traffic lane on the
carriageway.
edge marker post
see guide post
effective green and red

times
The movement green and red times for capacity and performance analysis
purposes, which are determined by adjusting the displayed green and red
times for start loss and end gain effects (see green time, red time).
effective green time
The movement green time for capacity and performance analysis

purposes, which are determined by adjusting the displayed green times for
start loss and end gain effects.
Term
Definition
EFROMD/ELMOD
Computer models which back-calculate the elastic moduli of pavement

layers from measured deflection bowl data.
elastic modulus (Youngs

modulus, modulus of
elasticity)
A measure of the stiffness of a given material. The ratio, for small strains,
of the rate of change of stress with strain.
elastic stiffness
The ratio of stress to recoverable strain under repeated loading conditions.
elastomer
A polymeric material, usually synthetic, which has elastic properties akin to

rubber.
electronic stability control

(ESC)
Also known as electronic stability programs (ESP), ESC builds upon

features such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and traction control to
stabilise the vehicle when it changes direction from that intended by the
driver.
electronic toll collection

(ETC)
Determines whether passing vehicles are registered in the program, alerts

enforcers for those that are not, and electronically debits the accounts of
vehicle owners without requiring them to stop.
electronic vehicle
pre-emption (EVP)
A preferential traffic signal control strategy provided to facilitate the flow

and passage of certain vehicles e.g. buses or ambulances.
elemental manoeuvre
The crossing, merging or diverging of two one-way one-lane traffic streams.
elevated walkway
A footpath substantially raised above the general level of surrounding land,

e.g. in the form of a pedestrian bridge.
elevation
A view through a vertical plan, viewed at right angle to object.
embankment
A construction (usually of earth or stone) to raise the ground (or formation)

level above the natural surface.
embayed parking
A parking bay or bays formed by indenting and physically protecting the

parking from the general flow of traffic. Also commonly referred to as
indented parking.
embedment
The process by which aggregate is pressed into the underlying surface by

traffic. For design purposes, the estimated total amount by which the
sealing aggregate will be pressed into the underlying surface during the
construction process as well as by traffic using the road after construction.
EME
EME (enrobs module lev) mix technology developed in France

providing high performance asphalt material for use in heavy duty
pavements. Offers high level resistance to permanent deformation
combined with a high stiffness level, well in excess of that of standard
mixes used in base layers, especially at elevated temperatures.
emergency escape ramp
A ramp designed to stop out-of-control vehicles, usually trucks, by using

reverse gradients (gravity type), arrester beds, or a combination of both
(see arrester bed, gravity safety ramp).
emergency service (NHVR)
An entity that has a statutory responsibility to respond to an emergency and

includes the following:
a) an ambulance service;
b) a fire brigade, including a volunteer fire brigade;
c) a police force or police service;
d) a disaster or emergency organisation of the Commonwealth or a State
or Territory.
emulsifier
A chemical which aids in the dispersion and stabilisation of bitumen

particles in water or vice versa.
Term
Definition
emulsion
A colloidal suspension of a liquid (the dispersed phase) in another liquid

(the continuous phase) in which it is not soluble.
end beam
A transverse stiffening member girder webs or inside a hollow pier (see

diaphragm).
end gain
Duration of the interval between the end of the displayed green period and
the end of the effective green period for a movement. This is used in signal
timing and performance analysis to allow for additional departures after the
end of the green period. Early cut-off time can be treated as an end gain for
the movement that is terminated at the end of the early cut-off interval (see
start loss).
end of deck
The back face of the curtain wall or back wall (if wall extends to the design
surface level) or the end of superstructure (when the approach slab sits
above the curtain wall).
End of Life (EOL) (RMS ITS)
The point in time when an item will no longer be economically or

technologically viable or will no longer be supported.
Also see operating life, remaining operational life, remaining requisite life,
remaining service life, service life and useful life.
end of trip facilities
Provision at common destinations of bicycle trips of showers, bicycle

lockers and bicycle parking.
enhancement (bridges)
The improvement of the condition of a bridge above its design or initially

planned level of service. Forms of enhancement include strengthening,
widening, lengthening, raising and improved safety such as better barriers.
Enrobs Module lev
see EME
entering sight distance

(ESD)
The sight distance required for minor road drivers to enter or to cross a
major road such that traffic on the major road is unimpeded. This is based
on the worst case, usually being a left or right turn manoeuvre.
entrained air (concrete)
Bubbles of air in concrete, the purpose of which is to increase its resistance

to frost and salt.
entry angle
The angle through which a design vehicle turns during the forward
manoeuvre before commencing the reverse manoeuvre into a parking or
service bay.
entry curve
The left edge of the pavement curve of the entry carriageway which leads
vehicles into the circulating carriageway.
enumeration district
see zone
environmental capacity
Capacity of a road or area to accommodate moving and/or stationary

vehicles with regard to the need to maintain specified environmental
standards.
environmental cracking
Cracking of a pavement due to environmental movements including

thermal effects, shrink/swell of pavement or subgrade, oxidation, ageing or
heaving due to plant growth, frost or chemical effects.
environmental impact
statement (EIS)
A structured document which is prepared to identify and assess the

environmental impacts of a proposed activity which is either designated as
development or likely to significantly affect the environment. It also
outlines safeguards to mitigate or control such impacts.
epoxy cement
A non-shrink synthetic epoxy cement mortar.
epoxy seal
A light application of bitumen epoxy binder, with graded calcined bauxite

aggregate, for the purpose of improving the skid resistance of a road
surface.
Term
Definition
equilibration
Process of allowing for fluctuations in traffic demand.
equilibrium assignment
Process of allocating the total number of trips between two zones to

minimum impedance paths or routes, which reflects a state of balance
between travel impedance and flow as determined by the assignment.
equilibrium moisture
content
The moisture content which is reached in a soil in a particular environment

after moisture movements have ceased.
equipment (RMS ITS)
The supplies, tools or resources serving to equip an asset.
equitable transport system
Transport system in which different modes of transport are provided such

that there is an emphasis on the fair allocation of transport investment to
different groups within the community.
equivalent car unit
see passenger car unit
equivalent standard axle(s)

(ESA)
The number of standard axle loads that are equivalent in damaging effect
on a pavement to a given vehicle or axle loading.
equivalent through car

units
see through car units
errant vehicle
A vehicle that leaves the travelled path and runs off the side of the road or
into the median.
ESC
see electronic stability control
escort vehicle (NHVR)
A pilot vehicle that is driven by a police officer or another person authorised

to direct traffic under an Australian road law.
Also see pilot vehicle.
ETC
see electronic toll collection
ethylene methyl acrylate

(EMA)
A plastomeric polymer used in the modification of bitumen.
ethylene vinyl acetate
A polymer used in the modification of bitumen.
evaluation
The process of determining whether the outcomes are desirable, affordable

or acceptable; properly involves those with an interest in the result, or at
least an overt consideration of their requirements (cf. assessment).
EVP
see electronic vehicle pre-emption
exclusive bicycle lane
see bicycle lane
exclusive lane
A lane (or length of lane) allocated for use only by a particular movement or
a type of vehicle, e.g. left-turn lane, through lane, right-turn lane, bus lane
(see shared lane).
exclusive pedestrian phase
The phase at an intersection during which all pedestrian displays are green
and all vehicle displays are red, allowing all pedestrian movements to
operate simultaneously while all vehicle movements are stopped (see
scramble-crossing phase).
exclusive turning lane
A traffic lane allotted to traffic turning either to the left or to the right.
exemption (NHVR)
A legal instrument used to provide alternative or non-compliance with a

law, regulation or standard. For example, a vehicle standards exemption, a
fatigue-related exemption (e.g. a work/rest hours exemption), or an accessrelated exemption. An exemption can be provided by notice or permit.
existing surface level
The surface of the earth formation existing at the bridge site prior to
construction.
Term
Definition
exit curve
The left edge of the pavement curve of the exit carriageway which leads
vehicles out of the circulating carriageway.
exit test
Test that must be passed prior to gaining one's fully licence.
exit trajectory
The path followed by the vehicle after the last impact with a road safety
barrier.
expanded storage area
see bicycle storage area
expansion joint
1.
Pavement: a joint, normally filled with a resilient material, provided to

separate a base slab from adjoining slabs or structures to allow relative
movements to occur and prevent the build-up of stresses due to expansion.
2.
Bridge: a joint provided to allow relative movement to occur and to prevent

the build-up of stresses due to expansion. May be of various types
depending on the movement to be accommodated.
exposed aggregate
concrete
A concrete surface with exposed aggregate which is proud of the surface

matrix.
exposure factor
The estimated proportion of time that a specified exposure scenario

applies.
expressway
A road mainly for through traffic, usually dual carriageway with full or partial
control of access. Intersections are generally grade separated (see freeway
and motorway).
extensiometer
Pavement material test device used to assess binder properties at low

service temperatures.
extension period
The interval of variable length during the green period that begins after a
demand for another phase is registered following the minimum green
interval, and extends according to vehicle detector actuations subject to a
maximum green extension setting in the controller.
external cordon survey
Cordon survey of a regional study area involving a roadside interview or

postcard survey with data related to traffic counts.
external traffic zone
Traffic zone located outside the boundaries of the study area. Trips
crossing the study area boundary are allocated to the appropriate external
traffic zone in which they start or end.
external trip
Trip that starts or ends outside the study area.
externalities
Indirect impacts or costs arising from transport activities that are incurred
by society as a whole (including non-transport users) and which may not be
completely paid for or internalised by transport users, e.g. air pollution
from vehicle exhaust emissions that affect the air quality of people living
near a road or greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that may contribute to
global warming. This would be in addition to the direct impacts or costs
accruing to users of the transport system, e.g. travel time or vehicle
operating costs.
extreme stress seal (XSS)
A variation of high stress seal (HSS) designed to cope with higher stress
conditions and consisting of a double/double seal with a medium to highly
modified polymer modified binder (PMB) in both applications.
Term
Definition
face
see signal face
Factory Acceptance Test

(FAT) (RMS ITS)
Testing conducted at the vendor or contractors premises before shipment

of equipment to its place of installation. The test is performed in
accordance with client approved test plans and procedures and verifies if
the equipment meets the performance specification.
fail over/failover (RMS ITS)
Failover is a backup operational mode in which the functions of a system

component (such as a processor, server, network, or database, for
example) are assumed by secondary system components when the
primary component becomes unavailable through either a failure or
scheduled down time.
failure (RMS ITS)
The event or inoperable state, in which any component or part of an item

does not, or would not, perform as previously specified.
Also see dangerous failure, failure mode, failure rate, primary failure,
random failure, safe failure mode, secondary failure, single point of failure
and systematic failure.
failure mode (RMS ITS)
The predicted or observed results of a failure cause on a stated component

in relation to the operating conditions at the time of failure. It includes the
manner by which the failure is observed and is generally described by the
way in which the failure occurs and its impact, if any, on system operation.
Also see dangerous failure, failure, failure rate, primary failure, random
failure, safe failure mode, secondary failure, single point of failure and
systematic failure.
failure rate (RMS ITS)
The total number of failures within a component population, divided by the

total time expended by that population during a particular measurement
interval under stated conditions.
It is also the reciprocal measure of the Mean Time Between Failure
(MTBF). It has the dimensions of 1/ time unit.
Also see dangerous failure, failure, primary failure, random failure, safe
failure mode, secondary failure, single point of failure and systematic
failure.
falling weight deflectometer

(FWD)
A vehicle mounted or towed device that records pavement surface

deflection bowls at discrete test points on the pavement surface. Surface
deflections are measured at distances ranging from 0 mm to a user-defined
maximum (normally 1,500 mm) from the centre of an impulse test load,
which is applied to the pavement surface through a standard loading plate
normally 300 mm in diameter by a falling weight with a variable drop height
while the FWD is at rest. FWDs are generally capable of imparting a load
up to 150 kN.
false alarm rates (FAR)
The number of false alarm signals as a percentage of tests performed by

an automatic incident detection algorithm.
FAR
see false alarm rates
fatal four
Refers to four common driver factors that contribute to crashes and road
fatalities: speeding, drink driving, fatigue and non-seatbelt wearing.
fatigue
The deterioration of a bound pavement or other structure caused by the

action of repetitive traffic loading. Contributing factors are a weak subgrade
or embankment, inadequate pavement thickness, basecourse saturation,
excessive loading, poor quality surfacing and delamination.
Also see driver fatigue.
Term
Definition
fatigue cracking
A visible crack in the wearing course (eventually resulting in an alligator

pattern) from the propagation of cracks caused by fatigue in the underlying
pavement layer.
fatigue-regulated heavy
vehicle (NHVR)
1. A heavy vehicle that is any of the following:

a) a motor vehicle with a GVM of more than 12 t;
b) a combination with a GVM of more than 12 t;
c) a fatigue-regulated bus.
2. However, subject to (3) a heavy vehicle is not a fatigue-related heavy
vehicle if it is any of the following:
a) a motor vehicle that:
is built, or has been modified, to operate primarily as a machine
or implement off-road, on a road-related area, or on an area of
road that is under construction; and
is not capable of carrying goods or passengers by road;
For example, an agricultural machine, backhoe, bulldozer,
excavator, forklift, front-end loader, grader, motor vehicle registered
under an Australian road law as a special purpose vehicle (type p).
b) a motorhome.
3. A truck, or a combination including a truck, that has a machine or
implement attached to it is a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle:
a) if the GVM of the truck or combination with the attached machine or
implement is more than 12 t; and
b) whether or not the truck or combination has been built or modified
primarily to operate as a machine or implement off-road, on a roadrelated area, or on an area of road that is under construction.
Example for the purposes of subsection (3)a truck to which a
crane or drilling rig is attached
4. For the purposes of (2)(b), a motorhome:
a) is a rigid or articulated motor vehicle or combination that is built, or
has been modified, primarily for residential purposes; and
b) does not include a motor vehicle that is merely a motor vehicle
constructed with a sleeper berth.
5. For the purposes of this section, the GVM of a combination is the total
of the GVMs of the vehicles in the combination.
fatty (asphalt)
An asphalt containing an excess of binder or puddled-up fines.
fault (RMS ITS)
The immediate cause of a failure (e.g., maladjustment, misalignment,

defect, etc.).
Also see critical fault, intermittent fault, and repetitive fault.
fault detection (RMS ITS)
A process or method by which the existence of a fault is discovered.
fault diagnosis (RMS ITS)
The act of isolating the subassembly and/or component level source

causing failure in response to an identified fault.
fault finding (RMS ITS)
The systematic investigation of a component exhibiting malfunction to find

a fault.
fault isolation (RMS ITS)
The process of determining the location of a fault to the extent necessary to

affect repair or resolution.
fault notification (RMS ITS)
A reporting of the existence of fault for a unit or asset detected by its fault
management function.
Term
Definition
fault resolution (RMS ITS)
Rectification of a component or system fault such that the component or

system does not present the fault and the required fault state has been
cleared.
faulting
Relative vertical movement of slabs in a Portland cement concrete

pavement due to differential deformation.
FCD
Floating Car Data

see floating car
FCW
see forward collision warning
feather edge
The surface of the pavement layers between the shoulder hinge point and
the subgrade surface.
feathering
The process by which a layer is blended into an existing surface.
fender wall

the earth fill, reaching the abutment sill and bearings.
Fibre-optic sensors
Equipment that uses changes in light to achieve highly sensitive

measurements of strain and displacement. Monitoring systems that use
these sensors connect via fibre-optic cables to a measuring and data
logging device.
fibre reinforced seal
A seal consisting of a specially formulated polymer modified binder with

chopped glass fibres.
field density
The density of earthworks or pavement material measured in situ normally

using a nuclear densometer.
fifth wheel coupling
A device, other than the upper rotating element and the kingpin (which are
parts of a semi-trailer), used with a prime mover, semi-trailer or converter
dolly to permit quick coupling and uncoupling, and provide for articulation.
fill
1.
The depth from the subgrade level to the natural surface.
2.
That portion of road where the formation is above the natural surface.
3.
The material placed in an embankment.
filler
A fine silt sized material, the majority of which passes the 0.075 mm sieve,
derived from crushed aggregate or other similar granular material and
commonly used in slurry sealing and asphalt. Cement and lime can also be
used as filler.
filter drain
A drain in which the water flows through filter material instead of through a
pipe.
filter fabric
A geotextile material which allows water to pass through but prevents the
passage of fines.
filtering
filter material
1.
The movement of one stream of vehicles across or into another stream of

vehicles or pedestrians by gap acceptance.
2.
A permitted turning movement at a signalised intersection, whether

specifically signalled or not, that must give way to and find safe gaps in
conflicting (opposing) vehicle or pedestrian traffic before proceeding.
3.
Movement of through traffic along local roads, usually to avoid congested

areas on the main arterial road system.
Granular material with the grading selected so that it will allow water to
pass through it, while retaining solid matter.
Term
Definition
filter turn
A turning movement that must give way to and find safe gaps in conflicting
(opposing) vehicle or pedestrian traffic before proceeding, e.g. filter right
turn, slip-lane left turn, left turn on red. Also called opposed turn.
financial costs and benefits 1. Costs and benefits that have clear financial transactions and flows, such as
the costs of building, operating and maintaining the project.
2.
A narrower definition of costs than the economic costs and benefits, which
may include items of importance to society as a whole, such as the value of
time savings, or the value of life.
fine aggregate
A general term for aggregate that substantially passes the 4.75 mm sieve.
Mostly composed of sand.
fine crushed rock (FCR)
A well graded soil aggregate produced by selectively crushing and

screening stone for use in pavement base construction, normally 19.0 mm
to 26.5 mm maximum size. It needs to satisfy stringent grading, Atterberg
limits and CBR requirements.
fine gap graded asphalt
A dense mix with intermediate sized fractions replaced by finer fractions. It

may also contain more filler. Fine gap graded mixes rely on the stiffness of
the fine aggregate/filler/binder mixture for stability.
fingerboard
see direction sign
Finite element method
Modelling of a structure's response to loads. The breakdown (i.e. partition,

decomposition) of a complex mechanical system into simpler components
called finite elements.
finishing-offset coordination
Coordination of the end times of green periods using a signal offset that
equals the average uninterrupted travel time in the travel direction so as to
minimise delay along the route (see offset).
first coat seal
An initial seal on a prepared basecourse which has not been primed.
first year rate of return
The total discounted benefits from the first full year of operation of a
project, divided by discounted capital costs, expressed as a percentage.
fitness to drive
Medical assessment of a person's ability to undertake required vehicle

operational tasks, including perception, response time and physical
movement.
fixed delay
Delay to which vehicles are subjected during low traffic densities.
fixed-form paving
Paving between fixed formwork and using manually operated equipment

such as internal vibrators and vibrating bull-floats. Also referred to as
manual and hand paving.
fixed-route system
Public transport system in which vehicles follow the same route on all trips.
Note: A fixed-route system differs from such modes as taxis or demand
responsive transport, where each trip may use a variety of routes even in
its origin and destination.
fixed time (FT)
The proportion of green time assigned to opposing arms at signalised

intersections is pre-set in accordance with historic traffic data. Different
green splits may be assigned at different times of the day or day-of-week.
fixed-time plan selection
A signal coordination method that uses predetermined signal timing plans

introduced according to a weekly schedule or timetable.
fixed-time signal
A traffic signal control method that allows for only a fixed sequence and
fixed duration of displays. Also known as fixed-time control.
flakiness index (FI)
The percentage (by mass) of stones in an aggregate having an ALD

('average least dimension') of less than 0.6 times their average dimension.
Term
Definition
flaky aggregate
An aggregate particle with a least dimension (thickness) less than 0.6 of

the mean of the smallest sieve size through which the particle passes and
the largest sieve size on which the particle is retained.
flare (road safety barrier)
The change in the offset of a road safety barrier to move it further from the
travelled way or closer to the travelled way.
flared intersection
An intersection where the road is widened to create one or more auxiliary

lanes for passing, storage or speed change.
flare rate
The curvature applied near the end of a road safety barrier installation.
Expressed as the ratio of the longitudinal distance to the transverse offset,
by which a road safety barrier flares away from, or towards, the edge of the
travelled way.
flash point
The lowest temperature at which the vapour of a substance momentarily

takes fire upon the application of a flame, but does not continue to burn, as
measured under specified test conditions.
flashing aspect
A traffic signal aspect that flashes on and off with regular frequency when
displayed.
flashing control signal
A traffic signal that displays red or flashing yellow aspects only.
flashing signal beacon
see flashing control signal
flat channel
A channel with a flat cross-section. Normally found in urban areas.
flexible pavement
A pavement which obtains its load spreading properties mainly by intergranular

pressure, mechanical interlock and cohesion between the particles of the
pavement material. In the case of an asphalt pavement, this further depends
on the adhesion between the bitumen binder and the aggregate, and the
cohesion of that binder. Generally, any pavement in which high strength
Portland cement concrete is not used as a construction layer.
flexilink
The cableless linking mode of operation in the SCATS control system, used
to maintain a level of signal coordination in the event of failure of the
regional computer or parts of the communication system.
flexural modulus
The ratio, within the elastic limit, of the applied stress on a test specimen in
flexure, to the corresponding strain in the outermost fibres of the specimen.
flexural strength
The property of material that indicates its ability to withstand a flexural

(bending) load.
floating car
Vehicle that is driven so that it travels at the average speed of traffic on the
length of road, which is done by ensuring that the vehicle overtakes as
many other vehicles as those that overtake it.
floodway
A longitudinal depression in a carriageway specially constructed to allow

the passage of floodwater across it without damage. The cross-section of a
stream in flood plus a nominated area for freeboard.
flow
The plastic deformation (mm) of a pavement layer under the continuous

action of a load or under repeated loading.
flow (Marshall)
The deformation (mm) of the test cylinder at maximum load, during the
Marshall test.
flow diagram
A diagram indicating the direction and magnitude of traffic streams.
flow map
A map on which are plotted lines, whose widths indicate the volume of
traffic along existing or proposed routes.
Term
Definition
flow rate
Number of vehicles or pedestrians per unit time passing (arriving or

departing) a given reference point (see demand flow, traffic count and
traffic volume).
flow ratio
The flow ratio of arrival (demand) flow rate to saturation flow rate during a
given flow period.
flushing
A pavement surface defect in which the binder is near the top of the
aggregate particles. There is minimal surface texture. In severe cases, the
bitumen covers the aggregate.
flush median
A painted median that may be used to assist turning vehicles, or in some

cases crossing pedestrians, or to increase the separation of traffic moving
in different directions.
fluxed bitumen
A bitumen which has had its viscosity reduced by the addition of a flux oil.
flux oil
A petroleum distillate added to bitumen to produce a long term reduction in

its viscosity.
fly ash
A fine-grained waste pozzolanic material generally obtained from the

combustion of pulverised coal in power stations. Fly ash can be used in
blended cement and in lime stabilisation.
foamed bitumen
Hot bitumen temporarily greatly expanded in volume by the introduction of

steam or water. It can be used in stabilisation or spray seal enrichment
applications.
foamed bitumen seal
A sprayed seal which uses foamed bitumen as the binder.
fog seal
A very light enrichment seal.
following distance
The distance from the front of a vehicle to the rear of the one ahead in the
same traffic lane.
Following distance warning

(FDW)
Technology used to warn drivers if the gap to the vehicle in front is too
small.
follow-up headway
The average headway between successive vehicles entering the same gap
in a moving traffic stream from a stationary queue.
footing
The widening at the base of a structure (pier, abutment, etc.) to spread the
load above to the foundation material.
footpath
A public way reserved for the movement of pedestrians, motorised

wheelchairs and personal mobility devices.
footpath (kerb) extension
A local widening of the footpath, which results in a reduced width of

roadway to be crossed by pedestrians, reduced speeds and improved
delineation. This treatment is a common feature of local streetscape works,
particularly in shopping strips where pedestrian-focussed solutions are
encouraged.
footway
Pedestrian facility on a bridge.
ford
A shallow place in a stream where the bed may be crossed by traffic.
forgiving road system
A road system that takes into account that road users make mistakes and
seeks to ensure minimal injury occurs in the event of a crash.
form
To shape earthworks to specified levels and dimensions.
formation
The surface of the finished earthworks, excluding cut or fill batters.
formed joint
All joints except for induced joints. This includes slip-formed and fix-formed
joints and edges.
Term
Definition
formwork
Temporary structure of timber, metal or other material comprising the

moulds in which concrete is formed to the desired shape.
forward collision warning

(FCW)
Microwave radar and machine vision technology help detect and avert
vehicle collisions. These systems typically use in-vehicle displays or
audible alerts to warn drivers of unsafe following distances. If a driver does
not properly apply brakes in a critical situation, some systems automatically
assume control and apply the brakes in an attempt to avoid a collision.
Forward Program
The collection of future planned maintenance activities required for the

sustaining of a system.
(RMS ITS)
foundation
The soil or rock upon which a structure rests.
four-step model
A travel forecasting model consisting of four steps trip generation, trip

distribution, mode choice and trip assignment.
fractured face
A relatively planar surface of an aggregate particle which appears broken

(as by crushing action) and not rounded, and the area of which is
significant enough to affect the characteristics of the particle.
frame district
The district that surrounds or frames the central activities or central

business district.
frangible
Roadside furniture designed to collapse on impact. The severity of potential

injuries to the occupants of an impacting vehicle is reduced, compared to
those that could occur if the furniture was unyielding.
fratar distribution
see growth factor model
free speed
The speed adopted by a driver when not influenced by the presence of

other traffic.
free water
1.
Water that is free to move through soil material or a pavement under the
influence of gravity.
2.
Water in a concrete mix which is not absorbed by the aggregate.
freeway
A divided highway with no access for traffic between interchanges and with
grade separation at all intersections.
freight capacity
Maximum payload volume which a vehicle may carry.
French drain (Maori drain)
A drain formed of a trench typically 1 m deep by 0.6 m wide containing a

porous or open-jointed pipe laid on, and backfilled with, a porous material.
The drain is typically used for the collection of surface or ground water.
fretting
The loss of aggregate from asphalt or a sprayed seals, with or without

binder attached, caused by the brittle fracture of the binder film under or
around aggregate particles.
friction
The gradual weathering and loss of soil and rock materials in a road cutting
over time. Resistance to the relative movement of one body (e.g. tyre)
sliding, rolling or flowing over another body (e.g. pavement surface) with
which it is in contact.
frontage
see property line
frontage road
Road providing access to and fronting an off-street car parking facility.
frontal swing (heavy

vehicle)
In a low-speed turn the front overhang of the hauling unit (rigid truck, prime
mover, bus and coach) will generally cause the path of the front outside
corner to track outboard the path of the front outside steered wheel.
Term
Definition
front overhang (heavy

vehicle)
The distance measured horizontally and parallel to the longitudinal axis of

the vehicle between the foremost point of the vehicle and equipment at the
centre of the axle at the front of the vehicle.
front under-run protection

system (FUPS) (NHVR)
A device or barrier installed at the front of a heavy vehicle with the purpose
of preventing other vehicles from being pushed underneath the front of the
heavy vehicle in the event of a collision.
frost-heave
The movement of a pavement or soil surface caused by the freezing of the

water within it.
FT
see fixed time
full barrier fence
A fence provided to generally prevent access to a slope or fall which due to

the height of the fall, the existence of obstacles or grade of the batter, could
result in injury.
full control
Control of a turning movement using three-aspect (red, yellow, green) turn

arrows on a six-aspect signal face, where the green arrow indicates that
the vehicle can turn unopposed (with no opposing vehicle or pedestrian
traffic) and the red arrow indicates that the vehicle is not permitted to turn
(filter turns not permitted).
full depth asphalt

pavement
A pavement in which asphalt is used for all courses above the subgrade or
improved subgrade.
full diamond interchange
see diamond interchange
full licence
Licence with fewer restrictions than a learner permit or

probationary/provisional licence that is typically obtained after passing
through the stages of learner and probationary/provisional licensing.
full width pavement
The pavement covers the full width of the formation and is not constrained
at the edges, as is the case in boxed construction.
fully-actuated control
fully-adaptive control
A signal coordination method that generates appropriate signal timing plans

on-line in a continuously variable fashion using extensive data provided by
vehicle detectors.
functional checks (RMS ITS)
Operational checks performed by an operator to confirm the availability of

typical operational functions.
functional classification
Classification of roads into groups according to their function, ranging from,

for example, principal routes for communication between major regions and
capital cities, to those roads which provide almost exclusively for local
residential traffic. Also known as road amenity classification.
funnelling
The effect of gradual reduction in the width of a carriageway.
Furness Distribution
see growth factor model
furniture
The equipment such as sign posts, median kerbs, lighting poles, etc., which
is installed to make the road network work more effectively.
Term
Definition
gabion
A wire basket filled with stones used to retain earth or to control scour. A
certain type is termed a rock-fill wire mattress.
gating terminal
A road safety barrier terminal designed to allow an impacting vehicle to

pass through the device. Terminals that are designed to break away, pivot
or hinge, and allow a vehicle to pass through when impacted at an angle to
the end, or at a point upstream of the beginning of the length of the
associated road safety barrier system.
gap
Time interval between the departure at a point of one vehicle and the
arrival at the same point of the next vehicle.
gap acceptance
The acceptance of a gap in a traffic stream by a driver, cyclist or pedestrian

wishing to enter or cross that traffic stream or a driver in the opposing traffic
stream wishing to overtake (see critical acceptance gap).
gap change
A change of aspect in traffic-actuated signals, which occurs for a phase

upon expiry of the maximum running period when there is a gap in the main
traffic stream.
gap distance
The following distance between two successive vehicles as measured

between the rear end of one vehicle and the front end of the next vehicle in
the same traffic lane (spacing less vehicle length).
gap-graded aggregate
A graded aggregate in which one or more of the intermediate sizes are

absent or present in small proportions.
gap-graded asphalt
An asphalt mix in which gap-graded aggregate is used.
gap-graded material
Graded material in which one or more of the intermediate sizes are absent.
gap setting
A controller setting equivalent to a predetermined space time measured

between successive vehicles at the given (approach) speed, detection
zone length and vehicle length values (see space time).
gap spacing
The spatial distribution of gaps in a flow of traffic.
gating
Traffic congestion management measure, utilising signal timing to assist

flow and queue length.
garage address (NHVR)
a) for a heavy vehicle normally kept at a depot when not in use, the
principal depot of the vehicle; or
b) for a heavy vehicle not normally kept at a depot when not in use, the
address of the place of business or residence at which the vehicle is
normally kept when not in use.
Gazette notice (NHVR)
A legal instrument that provides the Regulator with the ability to issue
information, authorisations or exemptions, that apply to a certain class(es)
of heavy vehicle or persons and will generally include conditions.
GBFS
see granulated blast furnace slag
GCM
see gross combination mass
GCW
see ground contact width
generalised cost
Measure of the composite cost of a trip by a motorist or user of public

transport where the travel time and out-of-pocket costs are expressed in
monetary units, which involve the estimation of the monetary value of time
and the perceived cost of access, transfer, waiting and egress time
associated with public transport.
Term
Definition
general access vehicle

(GAV) (NHVR)
In terms of heavy vehicles on Australian roads, these are vehicles which do

not require a permit or notice to run on the road networks. These vehicles
have as-of-right access to the network unless otherwise sign posted.
general mass limits (GML)
The heavy vehicle axle mass limits that apply to public roads in Australia
unless otherwise limited by load restriction signs.
generated traffic
1.
Traffic created by a new or improved facility as distinct from traffic that is

diverted to a facility and normal traffic increase.
2.
Traffic created by changes in land use.
geographic information
system (GIS)
A map based system that enables display of layers of data for various
analysis purposes.
geogrid
A polymer mesh of very open netlike configuration intended for use as a

reinforcement in soil, rockfill or pavements.
geophone
A seismic instrument used in site investigations. It is an inherent

component of the Falling Weight Deflectometer.
geosynthetic
A generic term used for synthetic materials designed for applications such
as drainage, filtrations, separation and strengthening. They can be
subdivided into various groups, e.g. geotextiles, geogrids, geostrips,
geomembranes, etc.
geotextile
A synthetic fabric used for various purposes including embankment

reinforcing and stabilisation, as a filter layer between dissimilar materials
and as a strain alleviating membrane.
geotextile reinforced seal
An application of a bituminous binder into which both aggregate and

geotextile are incorporated to provide a durable wearing surface. A layer of
binder is applied first, followed by a layer of geotextile fabric, then a second
coat of binder, followed by the aggregate.
girder
A load bearing member which supports the deck of a bridge.
GIS
see geographic information system
give way
Instruction to road user: if road user is stopped remain stationary until it is

safe to proceed; or in any other case slow down and, if necessary, stop to
avoid a collision.
give-way line
A broken line (single continuous line in New Zealand, known as limit line)
marked across all or part of a road, behind which vehicles should slow
down and give way to opposing traffic (see stop line).
give-way sign
A sign which indicates that a driver or rider must prepare to stop if

necessary to let a driver or rider on another approach proceed (but has no
need to stop if the way is clear).
glare screen
Device usually erected or located in a median to screen the glare caused

by oncoming headlights.
global positioning system

(GPS) / global navigation
satellite system (GNSS)
Comprises several networks of satellites that transmit radio signals

containing time and distance data that can be picked up by a receiver,
allowing the user to identify the the x, y, z coordinate location of its receiver
anywhere around the globe.
gore
A triangular area where two roads either meet or split.
governance
The act or manner of governing a project with due account to the relevant
legislation, procedures and guidelines that are in place.
Term
grade
Definition
1.
A length of carriageway sloping longitudinally.
2.
The rate of longitudinal rise (or fall) of a carriageway with respect to the
horizontal, expressed as a percentage.
3.
To design the longitudinal profile of a road.
4.
To secure a predetermined level or inclination to a road or other surface.
5.
To shape or smooth an earth, gravel, or other surface by means of a grader

or similar implement.
6.
To mix aggregates according to a particle size distribution.
gradeability
The grade that a vehicle is capable of ascending at a designated speed,

which is the summation of rolling resistance, air resistance and chassis
friction horsepowers deducted from the net engine horsepower, corrected
for altitude, divided by the gross vehicle or combination mass and then
deducting a road factor dependent on road type and condition.
graded aggregate
Aggregates having a distribution of sizes from coarse to fine, the largest

size being several times larger than the smallest size.
grade line
A vertical section, usually with an exaggerated vertical scale, showing the

existing surface levels along a road centreline, or other specified line. It
commonly also shows the levels to which the road is to be constructed or
reconstructed.
grader
A mechanised, wheeled machine with a movable blade mounted centrally

between the axles, used to shape or level surfaces.
grade separation
The separation of road, rail or other traffic so that crossing movements,

which would otherwise conflict, are at different elevations (see overpass,
underpass).
gradient
The longitudinal slope of a road or path, usually represented as the ratio of

a one metre rise to the horizontal distance (e.g. I : 50), or expressed as a
percentage (e.g. 2%).
grading (aggregate)
(particle size distribution)
The quantities of the various particle sizes present in a mineral aggregate,

expressed as a percentage by mass of the whole.
grading (earthworks)
The operation of cutting and spreading material with a grader.
grading envelope
The area between two limiting grading curves.
graduated (driver) licensing

system
A series of driving permits and licences which require the bearer to pass a
test, or hold the licence for a specified period with no violations in order to
graduate to the next level. Each level gradually allows the bearer more
independence and exposure to more risky driving environments and
behaviours (such as driving at higher speeds, driving more powerful
vehicles, driving with (more) passengers etc.).
granite
A hard igneous rock composed mainly of feldspar and quartz, used to

produce crushed aggregate for pavements and concrete.
granular material
Gravel or crushed rock graded so as to be mechanically stable, workable and

able to be compacted. They usually contain small amounts of silt and clay.
granular pavement
A pavement which obtains its load spreading properties mainly by

intergranular pressure, mechanical interlock and cohesion between the
particles of the pavement material, which is gravel or crushed rock graded
so as to be mechanically stable, workable and able to be compacted.
Generally has a particle size no smaller than sand.
Term
Definition
granulated blast furnace

slag (GBFS)
Slag which has been lightly ground to produce a cement-like powder
graphical route information

panel (GRIP)
Used to provide route information to help drivers make better route choice
with regards to current road traffic conditions. GRIPs use graphical
information to represent the current traffic conditions of a particular area
within the road network to convey traffic messages instead of text.
grass verge
Grass area on side of road.
grate
A grid of metal or other suitable material to prevent debris from entering a

drain or pit or mud tank and to provide protection for pedestrians and
vehicles.
gravel
A mixture of mineral particles ranging in size from 60 mm to 2 mm.
gravel pit
A site for the extraction and/or crushing of gravel.
gravity model
Mathematical model of trip distribution based on the premise that trips

produced in any given area will distribute themselves in accordance with
the accessibility of other areas and the number of opportunities they offer.
gravity safety ramp
A ramp that relies solely on an ascending grade to reduce the speed of an

out-of-control vehicle (see emergency escape ramp).
gravity wall
A retaining wall that has sufficient self-weight to resist overturning forces.
green band
see bandwidth
green strength
Cohesive strength developed in the binder at any time between application

and complete cure.
green time
Duration of the green display for a phase or a movement at traffic signals

(see effective green and red times).
greenfield sites
Undeveloped land in the outer areas of cities, close to major interstate road
and rail links. These areas allow the construction of purpose-built large
footprint developments on large lots. Road networks can be designed from
scratch and so they can be designed to cater for the emerging vehicle
types.
grid
A coordinate reference system used in surveying.
GRIP
see graphical route information panel
gritting
Fine angular aggregate, usually passing the 4.75 mm sieve. The

application of fine sharp aggregate or sand to a pavement.
groove
Narrow depression or rut in what is otherwise a relatively flat and smooth

riding surface, which could catch a bicycle wheel where it is parallel to the
direction of travel.
gross combination mass

(GCM) (NHVR)
Means the total maximum loaded mass of a vehicle and any vehicles it may
lawfully tow at any given time:
a) If the Regulator has, under section 56, specified the total maximum
loaded mass of the motor vehicle and any vehicles it may lawfully tow at
any given time specified by the Regulator under that section*; or
b) Otherwise stated by the motor vehicles manufacturer.
*Note:The Heavy Vehicle National Law Chapter 2, which includes section
56, has not yet commenced and as such jurisdictional definitions may also
apply.
gross trailer mass (GTM)

(NHVR)
The mass transmitted to the ground by the axles of the trailer when it is
loaded to its gross vehicle mass and connected to a towing vehicle.
Term
Definition
gross vehicle mass (GVM)
Of a vehicle, means the maximum loaded mass of the vehicle:
(NHVR)
a) If the Regulator has specified the vehicles maximum loaded mass

under Section 57specified by the Regulator under that section*; or
b) Otherwisestated by the vehicles manufacturer.
*Note: The Heavy Vehicle National Law Chapter 2, which includes
section 57, has not yet commenced and as such jurisdictional
definitions may also apply.
ground clearance (NHVR)
The minimum distance between the ground and the vehicles underside,
other than its tyres, wheels, wheel hubs, brake backing plates, flexible
mudguards and mudflaps.
ground contact width

(GCW) (NHVR)
The distance between the outermost points of the tyres, on the same axle,
that is in contact with the ground.
Ground penetrating radar

(GPR)
A control unit connected by a cable to an antenna with either fixed or

separable transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) elements. The measured
response can be used to determine internal structure, defects and material
properties.
grouting
The operation of pouring or forcing binders such as bitumen, cement slurry

or epoxy materials into the interstices of a pavement surfacing, a structure
or a natural formation.
growth factor
Ratio of future trip ends to present trip ends.
growth factor model
Method of distributing trip ends based on the growth factor of the origin and
destination and on the given trip interchanges.
guardrail
A rail erected to restrain vehicles that are out of control.
guide post
A post used to indicate the edge of a carriageway.
guide sign
A sign which is erected to inform and advise road users of directions,

distances, destinations, routes and location of services for road users, and
points of interest.
guideway
Channel or track for controlling the lateral movement of a vehicle.
guideway systems
Combination of guideways that are used by one transport mode for all or
part of its route. Guideway systems in operation or under development are
usually classified by the type of support system used, as follows: 1. steel
rails for steel wheels, e.g. tramway, railway. 2. concrete steel beam for
rubber tyres, e.g. monorail. 3. concrete trough for rubber tyres, e.g.
O-bahn. 4. metal stator beam for magnetically levitated vehicles.
gully pit (gully trap)
A concrete pit at the end of a water channel to settle out solids before the
flow enters a pipe drain. A hole or depression into which water is drained.
gyratory compaction
Assessment of asphalt mixture strength properties using vertical pressure,

angle of gyration and rotational speed during the compaction process.
hairline crack
1.
Road: an irregularly running, thin, narrow, crevice or fissure at the surface

of a concrete or clay product, not penetrating deeply.
2.
Bridge: a crack less than 0.05 mm in width.
half-diamond interchange
An interchange with two ramps instead of four in adjacent quadrants.

Also see diamond interchange.
hand sprayer
Spraying equipment which discharges binder through a jet at the end of a

hand-held lance.
Term
Definition
hardness
The ability of a material to resist penetration and surface wear.
harm minimisation
see safe system
harm reduction
An approach to reduce the likelihood and severity of injuries rather than

eliminate death and serious injury completely. Hence, harm reduction
speed limits would be generally lower than existing limits but still above the
survivable impact speeds.
Also see safe system.
harmonisation
Modification of different standards, methods, or specifications to make

them uniform or compatible. Often undertaken at a national or international
level.
harsh (asphalt mix)
An asphalt mix having low workability due to its high level of stability
resulting in difficulty in placing and compaction.
haul
The distance through which material is transported between points of

loading and unloading.
hauling unit (NHVR)
A motor vehicle that forms part of a combination, but does not include a
prime mover.
hazard (roadside)
Any object or feature located between the edge of a traffic lane and the
road reserve boundary, or within a median, that could cause significant
personal injury (including fatal injury) to road users when impacted by an
errant vehicle.
hazard marker
A rectangular sign marked with a series of alternate black and white bands
or chevrons, to indicate an obstruction within or adjacent to the
carriageway.
hazardous road location
see crash location
hazard perception test

(HPT)
Increasingly common component of the driver licensing system in

jurisdictions around Australia and New Zealand. Examinees view a video of
a road scene, from the perspective of being in the driver seat. The aim is to
check that the licence applicant can recognise and react appropriately to
various traffic hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.
hazard warning lights
A pair of yellow direction indicator lights fitted to a vehicle, which display

regular flashes of light at the same time, and at the same rate as each other,
but does not include warning lights fitted to a bus used for carrying children.
HDM (HDM-4)
The Highway Development Model of the World Bank originally developed

for use in developing countries. It enables assessment of the extent and
consequences of the condition of a highway network. Comprehensive road
inventories are used in its development, and factors such as vehicle
operating costs are taken into consideration. HDM-4 was released in 2000.
head start area
see bicycle storage area
headstock

the superstructure.
head-up display (HUD)
A head-up display is any transparent display that presents data without

obstructing the user's view.
head wall
A retaining wall at the end of a culvert.
headway
Time gap between successive vehicles in a traffic stream (measured at the

same point on the two vehicles). Headway and gap are often used
synonymously.
headway distance
see spacing
Term
Definition
headway setting
A controller setting equivalent to a predetermined space time measured

between successive vehicles at the given (saturation, or queue discharge)
speed, detection zone length and vehicle length values (see space time).
heave
The upward movement of soil resulting from expansion or displacement

caused by absorption, freezing of soil moisture and operations such as
removal of overburden, pile driving and embankment construction.
heavily bound base
A bound pavement having a minimum unconfined compressive strength

(UCS) value of 4 MPa.
heavily trafficked road
A road carrying average annual daily traffic (AADT) of more than 1,500
vehicles.
heavy bus
A bus with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) exceeding a mass specified in

individual State legislation and regulations (normally more than 5 t).
heavy combination (NHVR)
A combination that is a heavy vehicle.
heavy goods vehicle
Any goods vehicle having a gross vehicle mass exceeding 12 t.
heavy motor vehicle (NHVR)
A motor vehicle that is a heavy vehicle.
heavy vehicle
1.
For the purposes of the Heavy Vehicle National Law a vehicle is a heavy
vehicle if it has a gross vehicle mass (GVM) or aggregate trailer mass
(ATM) of more than 4.5 tonnes.
Also, for the purposes of this Law other than in relation to registration under
this Law, a combination that includes a vehicle with a GVM or ATM of more
than 4.5 tonnes is a heavy vehicle.
Rolling stock is not a heavy vehicle under this Law.
Refer to the definitions of Class 1, 2, and 3 heavy vehicles for more
detailed classifications. (NHVR)
2.
A two-axle vehicle with the minimum axle spacing greater than 3.2 m, or a
three- or more-axle vehicle configured at least with two axle groups
(excluding short towing vehicles, e.g. trailer, caravan, boats, etc.)
heavy vehicle charging
Price attached to road use by heavy vehicles in approximate proportion to

the damage their loading inflicts on the pavement.
Heavy Vehicle National

Law (HVNL) (NHVR)
An Australian law with the purpose of regulating the heavy vehicle industry
including registration, driver fatigue, vehicle standards, mass dimension
and loading, compliance and enforcement and access.
heavy weight deflectometer

(HWD)
A device similar to the falling weight deflectometer (FWD), but capable of

imparting a greater load, up to 250 kN.
high-alcohol hours
see alcohol hours
high bitumen content

emulsion
A bitumen emulsion with a bitumen content of at least 67%.
high modulus asphalt
Asphalt characterised by a high stiffness, high durability, superior

resistance to permanent deformation and good fatigue resistance.
high productivity freight

vehicle (HPFV)
Vehicle configurations that are permitted to operate after gaining approvals

through the national Performance Based Standards (PBS) process. These
vehicles must comply with approved safety and infrastructure protection
performance measures.
higher mass limits (HML)
A mass exception under the Heavy Vehicle National Law which allows
higher mass limits on approved routes for particular vehicles or vehicle
combinations dependent on other conditions being met (e.g. IAP and/or
road friendly suspension may need to be fitted to the vehicle).
(NHVR)
Term
Definition
higher order turn
A turning movement with higher priority e.g. bus priority.
highest hourly volume

(HHV)
The highest hourly volume of any continuing 60 minute period over a whole
year. HHV is usually rated in terms of an nth highest hour volume,
meaning the hourly traffic volume (veh/h) exceeded in only n hours of a
year. The 30th and 80th highest hourly volumes (denoted as 30 HV and 80
HV respectively) are commonly used parameters in assessing the design
volume for setting the capacity of a traffic facility. This probabilistic concept
is chosen because it is uneconomic, if not impossible, to design a facility
realistically to meet the highest traffic flow rate.
high float emulsion
An anionic emulsion which has a quality, imparted by the addition of certain

chemicals, that permits a thicker binder film on the aggregate particles with
minimum probability of drainage.
high-occupancy toll (HOT)
A toll enacted on single occupancy vehicles wishing to use lanes or entire

roads that are designated for the use of high occupancy vehicles.
high-occupancy vehicle
(HOV)
Road vehicle carrying a driver and a number of passengers equal to or

greater than a number specified by legislation for special purpose traffic
lanes.
high-productivity vehicle
(HPV)
Large modular heavy vehicle combinations that are assembled from

standard vehicles coupled together.
high shoulder
A road fault in which the shoulder is too high relative to the carriageway.
high speed transient offsetting
The lateral distance that the last axle on the rear trailer tracks outside the
path of the steer axle in a sudden evasive manoeuvre.
high stress seal (HSS)
A bituminous seal or reseal treatment which may be a single/single or

double/double seal, but with a polymer modified binder (PMB) to improve
seal performance in areas of high traffic loading and stress.
highway
1.
A road where traffic has the right to pass and owners of abutting property
have access.
2.
A principal road in a road system.
highway network
see road network
hinge point
The point in the cross-section of a road at which the extended batter line
would intersect the extended verge line.
hire and reward transport
Freight transported for financial reward by freight transport operators

whose main business is to provide such a service to clients.
hog
The vertical deflection caused by the application of prestress in prestressed

concrete members.
holding line
A broken transverse pavement marking which shows motorists where the

front of their vehicle should be if they have to wait to enter part of an
intersection.
holding rail
Device used by cyclists that allows them to keep their feet on the pedals, in
a ready position, whilst stopped at intersections.
home-based trip
Trip that starts or finishes at home.
home-interview survey
Survey in which information on the characteristics of the household and its

trip-making patterns is obtained by interviewing representatives of
households in their homes.
Term
Definition
hook turn
Where a driver/rider approaches and enters an intersection adjacent to the

left edge of a road, until as near as practicable to the far edge of the road that
the driver/rider is entering. Then, the driver/rider proceeds along the entering
road with a green light or otherwise after giving way to approaching vehicles.
hook turn storage box
Treatment to encourage use of hook turns or prohibit conventional right

turns that may be hazardous to cyclists. Provides cyclists with a storage
area on the left side of the road to enable protected right turn manoeuvre.
hoon laws
The popular name for legislation intended to give police more power to deal
with hoon offences, for example: participation in a race or speed trial;
dangerous driving committed in circumstances involving intentional loss of
traction; careless driving; failure to have proper control of the motor vehicle;
causing a motor vehicle to make excessive noise or smoke; driving at
extreme speeds; intentionally driving in a manner to cause loss of traction
to one or more wheels; and in some jurisdictions, driving while disqualified.
In some jurisdictions, the police have been given the power to immediately
impound the vehicle for a pre-specified period.
horizontal alignment
The bringing together of the straights and curves in the plan view of a
carriageway.
horizontal curve
A curve in the plan or horizontal alignment of a carriageway.
horizontal device
Any treatment involving horizontal deflections or carriageway deviations

aimed at influencing driver behaviour through change of path (including
angled slow points, central blisters and the like).
HOT
see high-occupancy toll
hot-in-place asphalt
recycling (HIPAR)
A rehabilitation treatment involving removal of old asphalt, processing,

heating and mixing with new aggregates and binder, with or without the
addition of recycling agent, relaying and compacting to meet specification
requirements.
hot-rolled asphalt
A special kind of sheet asphalt containing coarse aggregate, used for

surfacing heavily-trafficked pavements in the UK.
HOV
see high-occupancy vehicle
HPT
see hazard perception test
HPV
see high productivity vehicle
Hubbard-Field method
A laboratory design procedure for measuring the stability and voids of

asphalt mixes containing aggregate up to 40 mm in size (now superseded).
HUD
see head-up display
human-powered vehicles
The array of alternative forms of pedal powered and hand cranked vehicles
including recumbents, tandems, tricycles, and bicycles with trailers.
hungry seal
A surface condition in which the aggregate is proud of the surface and the
binder is approximately half way up the sides of the aggregate particles.
HVNL
see Heavy Vehicle National Law
hydrated lime (slaked lime)
Calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2. Also referred to as slaked lime. Supplied in

powdered form. Used in lime stabilisation and as an additive in asphalt.
hydration
Treatment or impregnation with water.
hydrocarbons
Organic compounds containing carbon and hydrogen.
hydrophilic aggregate
Aggregate which shows a relatively high affinity for water.
hydrophobic material
Material showing no affinity for water, e.g. bitumen.
Term
Definition
IAP
see intelligent access program
ignition point
The temperature at which the vapour of a substance such as bitumen takes

fire and continues to burn under specified test conditions.
ILD
see inductive loop detector
illuminance
The luminous flux incident on a surface per unit area.
impact angle
The minimum angle at which a vehicle at speed leaves the road.
impedance
Measure of the difficulty of travelling through a network, which can be travel

time, distance, cost, or a combination or these.
impermeable
A material which cannot be penetrated by a fluid such as air or water.
improved subgrade
A subgrade, the load-carrying capacity of which has been increased by the

addition of suitable material, e.g. bitumen, lime, cement, sand or aggregate.
in situ
An operation carried out on a material in its final position.
in situ stabilisation
Stabilisation carried out in situ.
incremental assignment
Process in which trips are allocated to minimum impedance paths in a

number of steps with an increment of total trips in each step. Travel
impedance is adjusted between each step to reflect the expected flow.
incremental benefit-cost
ratio
The ratio of the present value of incremental benefit to the present value of
incremental cost.
indicative investigation
condition levels
A suggested interim set of condition levels for use as an interim surrogate

to define terminal structural condition or the onset of pavement failure, for
the purpose of determining the remaining structural capacity or structural
life of a pavement. Planning for maintenance intervention at these condition
levels is intended as a means of managing the risk of accelerating
deterioration.
indirect benefits
Used to describe a wide range of second order effects such as impacts on

land-use development and employment. Note: care should always be taken
not to double count benefits by including a direct economic benefit and
then count it again as an indirect benefit, when converted to another form
(e.g. travel time savings may be converted into increased land values).
induced traffic
Additional traffic resulting from some improvement in a road or in traffic

arrangements.
inductive loop detector

(ILD)
Consists of one or more loops of wire embedded in the pavement and

connected to a control box. When a vehicle passes over or rests on the
loop, the inductance of the loop is reduced showing the presence of a
vehicle. The data supplied by inductive loop detectors are vehicle passage,
presence, count, and occupancy. For incident detection, loop data is
usually relayed to a traffic center for analysis with a computer based
Automatic Incident Detection algorithm.
inert material
The components of a mixture which exhibit no binding or cementitious

properties or chemical reaction.
inertial profilometer
A profilometer which relies on accelerometers (sensors which measure

acceleration) to indicate the shape of the profile being surveyed. On
modern inertial non-contact profilometers, accelerometers measure the
vertical motion of the vehicle, ensuring that the reported road profile
(usually measured by laser, optical or ultrasonic sensor) is independent of
the vehicle dynamics.
Term
Definition
Information and
Communications
technology (ICT) (NHVR)
Technologies used for accessing, gathering, manipulating, presenting or

communicating information. ICT replaces IT (Information Technology) as a
general descriptor of services, products and organisations.
information sign
A sign for the purpose of giving information, not being a warning or

regulatory sign indicating a feature such as a town or river.
Infrared thermography
Equipment that uses a special type of camera to measure variations in heat

emitted by a structure. Near-surface defects and other mechanisms, for
example moisture infiltration, can potentially be detected using these
methods based on their influence on surface temperature.
infringement
Breach of law.
inherent availability (RMS ITS)
A measure of availability that includes only the effects of a component or

system design and its application, and assumes an ideal operational and
support environment.
Normally the following is excluded from this calculation:
Scheduled maintenance work;
Degraded operational modes;
Administrative activities; and
3rd party interruptions and down time.
One way of expressing inherent availability is mathematically as follows:
Inherent availability = MTBF
______________
MTBF + MTTR
Where:
MTBF = Mean Time Between Failures
MTTR = Mean Time to Repair
Also see availability, achieved availability and operational availability.
initial estimated remaining

service life
An estimation of the remaining service life based on immediate post

construction or rehabilitation/replacement condition data.
initial estimated remaining

service traffic
An estimation of the remaining service traffic based on immediate post

construction or rehabilitation/replacement condition data.
initial lateral position
The lateral position of a vehicle prior to the initial change of direction.
initial running period
The duration of that portion of an interval in traffic-actuated signals, during

which no change of aspect can occur.
initial seal (first coat seal)
A seal placed on a prepared basecourse which has not been primed.
in-line blending
Addition of dilutent to the binder while it is being pumped through a pipe.
inscribed circle
The circle that may be inscribed within the outer kerb line of the circulating
carriageway. This may not always be truly circular.
inspection (RMS ITS)
Visual examination of a component for its condition and/or visible defects.
inspection (bridges)
The process of utilising various techniques to closely examine a bridge and

determine and maintain records of its current physical and structural
condition. Four levels of inspection are specified in increasing detail and
decreasing frequency.
installation
A sequence of devices which in some way interact with each other (e.g.
closely-spaced humps calculated to maintain a low and consistent target
speed along the street).
Term
Definition
institutional district
The district located adjacent to the central activities or central business

district that is dominated by government institutional uses.
integral shoulder
A concrete shoulder, which is of the same composition and thickness as

the concrete base pavement.
integrated land-use and

transport planning
A planning process in which land use attributes, origin-destination choices,

modal choice and transport network efficiencies are jointly considered at
the beginning and throughout the process.
intelligent access program

(IAP)
In Australia, the IAP provides for improved heavy vehicle access to the
road network in return for monitoring, by vehicle telematics, of their
compliance with specific access conditions. Also see http://www.tca.gov.au
ISA is a combination of technological systems that support drivers in their
choice of travel speeds. While there are varying terms used worldwide to
describe the forms of ISA systems, Australian road agencies have agreed
to adopt the following common language:
intelligent speed adaptation

(ISA)
Advisory ISA: systems that remind drivers of the prevailing speed limit
and exert no control over the vehicle
Supportive ISA: systems that provide some degree of vehicle initiated
limiting of speed, but allow the driver to override the system
Limiting ISA: systems that include vehicle initiated speed limiting that
cannot be overridden (usually accompanied by an emergency failure
function).
intelligent transport
systems (ITS)
A broad range of communications-based information, control, and

electronics technologies integrated into the transportation system
infrastructure, and in vehicles, to help monitor and manage traffic flow,
reduce congestion, provide alternate routes to travellers, enhance
productivity, and save lives, time, and money.
Also see C-ITS.
intensity
see luminous intensity
interactance model
Variation of the gravity model using a series of curves to represent trip

interaction between land uses of varying intensity.
interceptor drain
A type of side drain that prevents water from flowing towards the road and
is normally sited away from the road.
interchange
A grade separation of two or more roads with one or more interconnecting

carriageways.
interchange ramp
A carriageway within an interchange providing for travel between two arms

(legs) of the intersecting roads.
interchanging
Process of changing from one mode of transport to another mode to

complete a journey (see modal interchange, public transport nodes).
interface (road safety

barrier)
The length of road safety barrier used to connect systems with different
operating characteristics, commonly used to connect a non-rigid road
safety barrier to a rigid barrier, such as a bridge safety barrier.
inter-governmental
agreement (IGA) (NHVR)
A signed agreement between the Commonwealth of Australia and the

States and Territories, currently excluding Western Australia, on the Heavy
Vehicle Regulatory Reform.
Term
Definition
inter-green time
Duration of the clearance part of the phase corresponding to the period

between the phase change point (the end of running intervals) and the
beginning of the green display for the next phase (end of phase). Normally,
it comprises yellow time and all-red interval. The early cut-off green interval
that follows the phase change point is also considered to be part of the
inter-green time.
interlock
see alcohol interlock
interlocking pavement
A pavement consisting of a surfacing of interlocking pavers.
interlocking pavers
Shaped or rectangular concrete or clay units laid on a layer of bedding

sand and forming the surface of a flexible pavement or an overlay of an
existing pavement.
intermediate course
A course between the base and the wearing course of a pavement.
intermediate sight distance
The distance required for two oncoming drivers or riders on a two-way road
to stop before contact with the other vehicle.
intermittent fault (RMS ITS)
The malfunction of a component or unit that occurs at intervals, usually

irregular, for an asset or system that functions normally at other times.
Also see fault, critical fault, and repetitive fault.
internal trip
Trip that starts and ends in the study area.
International Roughness
Index (IRI)
A mathematical model of the dynamic response of a real vehicle travelling

along a single wheelpath of longitudinal road profile (referred to as the
quarter-car, or World Bank, model). It is expressed in terms of accumulated
displacement of the simulated suspension in metres per measured
kilometre (m/km).
Index (lane IRI)
A composite IRI value representing the roughness of a road lane section. It

is determined by averaging two individual Single Track IRI values obtained
separately in each wheelpath of a lane (at 0.75 m either side of the centre
of the lane mid-track).
Index (single track IRI)
The IRI based on a quarter-car model run at 80 km/h over a single

wheelpath of longitudinal profile.
International Study of
Highway Development and
Management (ISOHDM)
An international project for the development of HDM-4, based at the

University of Birmingham, UK, administered by PIARC in Paris, and funded
by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, British Department for
International Development, Swedish Government and others.
interoperability
The ability of different systems to work together or interoperate in order to

achieve a desired outcome without any impediment or restriction,
regardless of the individual systems interface, or date and place of
manufacture. Interoperability can both refer to technical systems and social
systems.
inter-red period
The period of time between the start of the green phase and the crossing of
the stop line by the last vehicle in that phase.
interrupted flow
Condition of traffic flow on a road in which factors external to the traffic

stream itself affect the traffic flow, such as an intersecting traffic stream
having priority, signals, railway crossings, trams and pedestrian crossings.
intersection
The place at which two or more roads meet or cross.
intersection (at-grade)
An intersection where carriageways cross at a common level.
intersectional friction
The retarding effect on traffic movement caused by potential and actual

traffic conflicts at an intersection, or the merging of two moving streams of
traffic.
Term
intersection angle
Definition
1.
The angle between two intersecting roads.
2.
The angles between the centrelines of two intersecting carriageways.
intersection arm
see intersection leg
intersection count
see intersection leg
intersection crossing time
The period it takes to pass through an intersection, from the point of

entering a signalised intersection (from the stop bar) to the last point of
conflict with another legal movement of traffic (including pedestrians).
intersection leg
Any one of the carriageways radiating from and forming part of an

intersection.
intersection point
The point where the two tangents to a curve or two grades meet.
interval
A period during which a particular green, yellow or red aspect is displayed

to a traffic movement.
intervening opportunities
model
Mathematical model for distributing trips based on the assumption that the
trips originating in any zone will distribute themselves to other zones in
proportion to the probability that the trips have not found a prior destination
and that they will be as short as possible.
intervention level
The value (extent and condition) of a condition parameter, which triggers

either maintenance investigation or maintenance activity. An intervention
level will identify a defect as either acceptable or unacceptable. The latter
will require further consideration of the defect in relation to its location with
respect to the asset, safety issues, the possibility of continuing deterioration
and increased repair cost and the economics of not undertaking repairs.
interzonal time
Total time to travel between zones consisting of the terminal times at each
end of the trip plus the driving time.
interzonal trip
Trip between two zones.
intrazonal time
Average time of travel for trips beginning and ending in the same zone,
including the terminal time at each end of the trip.
intrazonal trip
Trip with both its origin and destination in the same zone.
in-vehicle safety and

warning systems
(IVSAWS)
Provide drivers with advance, supplemental notification of dangerous road

conditions using electronic warning zones with precise areas of coverage.
in-vehicle survey
Survey in which passengers of public transport modes (e.g. bus, train,

ferry) are interviewed while travelling in the vehicle.
in-vehicle time
Time spent travelling in a vehicle.
in-vehicle unit (IVU)
Unit within a vehicle that interacts with roadside or satellite signals.
invert
The lowest portion of the internal surface of a drain or culvert.
inverted emulsion
A type of emulsion in which water is suspended in a finely dispersed state

in bitumen.
investigatory level (skid

resistance)
The level of skid resistance at or below which a site investigation is to be

undertaken.
irradiation
Blurring of the edges of a bright object viewed adjacent to a dark

background.
ISA
see intelligent speed adaption
ISOHDM
see International Study of Highway Development and Management
Term
Definition
isolation joint
A joint between a base slab and other parts of the pavement or structure to
prevent stress due to expansion or contraction or other structural
movements.
isotropic
A material having properties that are equal in all directions.
iterative assignment
Process in which all trips are allocated to minimum impedance paths, the
travel impedance is adjusted to reflect the flow, and the allocation is
repeated.
ITS
see intelligent transport systems
IVSAWS
see in-vehicle safety advisory and warning systems
IVU
see in-vehicle unit
jetting
In sandy ground, installation of a pile may be assisted by water jetting

under pressure. A jet pipe with outlets at opposite sides of the pile tip may
be cast into the pile. The water jets loosen the soil ahead of the pile tip,
allowing it to penetrate under its own weight or with light driving.
Alternatively, external jet pipes may be clamped to opposite sides of the
pile.
jiggle bars
see safety bars and rumble strips
joint
1.
A planned discontinuity in the wearing surface, other than an edge, caused

by the overlap or butting together of two materials. This is usually
associated with conventional sprayed sealing, geotextile or fibre reinforced
sealing and slurry surfacing work.
2.
A well-defined fracture or crack in a rock mass, along which there has been
no significant movement.
3.
The gap between adjoining sections of prestresses concrete construction,

usually filled with epoxy resin or concrete.
jointed reinforced concrete

pavement (JRCP)
A concrete pavement which is typically mesh reinforced, with square

dowelled joints at spacings of 8 to 12 m. The longitudinal reinforcement
does not cross the transverse joints.
joint sealant
Material used to prevent entry of water, debris or foreign matter into a joint
of a structure.
journey
Movement involving one or more trips e.g. 1. journey-to-work, which could

involve a direct trip to work or an immediate stop for some other, but
secondary purpose; or 2. an origin-to-origin journey, which could involve
several trips, each for a particular purpose. Note: Home-to-home journeys
have also been termed tours.
journey leg
Part of a multi-modal journey covered by only one mode of travel. Note: A

journey leg is an unlinked trip that forms part of a longer journey; e.g. a
journey may consist of a walk leg, followed by a bus leg, a train leg and
another walk leg.
journey time
The time taken to travel between two specified points on a route, excluding
the time for any stoppages other than those due to interruptions by traffic.
journey-to-work survey
Information extracted from the national census, which includes where

people live and work, their industry, occupation and sex.
judder bars
Rounded ridges on the road surface positioned to encourage drivers to

appropriately control vehicle position or speed.
Term
Definition
jurisdiction (NHVR)
State, territory, Commonwealth or local government entity.
kea crossing
A part-time school crossing used in New Zealand which only operates

when a school patrol and two fluorescent orange crossing point flag signs
(one on each side of the road) are present.
kerb
A raised border of rigid material formed at the edge of a carriageway,

pavement or bridge.
kerb and channel
The kerb and channel combine to form an open drain to capture and
discharge run-off.
kerb blister
A bulge introduced in an existing kerbline to narrow the approach or

departure carriageway adjoining a roundabout. It is generally used to limit
the maximum radius (and hence speed) that can be used by a vehicle
when negotiating a roundabout.
kerb clearances
A distance by which the kerb should be set back in order to maintain the
maximum capacity of the traffic lane.
kerb extension
see footpath (kerb) extension
kerbline
The boundary between the shoulder and the verge.
kerosene (cutter)
A light petroleum distillate added to bitumen to temporarily reduce its

viscosity.
Key Performance Indicator

(KPI) (RMS ITS)
A performance measure used to evaluate success, or to evaluate the

success of a particular activity engaged by a department or organisation.
KPIs are defined within KRAs.
Also see Key Result Area (KRA).
Key Result Area (KRA) (RMS

ITS)
General areas of outcomes or outputs for which a department or

organisations role is responsible.
kilometre post
see distance marker
kingpin
Pin attached to the skid plate of a semi-trailer, and used for connecting the
semi-trailer to the fifth wheel of a towing vehicle.
kiss-and-ride
System in which people are driven in a car to a specified location to board

public transport after which the car is driven away.
see park-and-ride.
kneeling bus
A bus that can be lowered closer to the kerb to allow easier boarding by the
elderly and by some people with disabilities.
k value
The length required for a 1% change of grade on a parabolic vertical curve.
laden mass
Mass of a vehicle and its load borne on the surface on which it is standing
or running.
lag
The interval of time from the instant one vehicle is in position to accept or
reject the opportunity to enter a manoeuvre area until the arrival of a
vehicle conflicting with it into the same manoeuvre area.
lagging right turn
An arrow-controlled right-turn movement that is started and terminated in

the phase that immediately follows the phase in which the opposing
through movement runs.
Term
Definition
laitance
A deleterious layer of material formed from the constituents of concrete

which may collect on the surface of the concrete soon after placing.
LAMP
Local area management plan (see local area traffic management)
landslide
A movement of the surface of a hillside, resulting from natural causes.
land use
Use to which land is put, e.g. residential, commercial, open space. In

transport analysis the term encompasses measures of social and economic
activity that take place on the land, e.g. size of population, number of
employees.
lane
A portion of the paved carriageway marked out by kerbs, painted lines or

barriers, which carries a single line of vehicles in one direction. A lane is
generally between 3.0 and 3.5 m wide. A single carriageway road normally
has at least one lane in each direction.
lane-control signal
A signal face mounted above a lane in an overhead lane control scheme,

which is used to control the direction of vehicle flow in the lane during a
particular time.
lane-control system (LCS)
Consisting of overhead lane specific signals denoting a red X if travel in

the lane is prohibited, and a green arrow if travel is permitted, these signals
symbolically display the current status of each freeway lane to inform
motorists of the condition of the lanes downstream so that they may take
appropriate action.
lane group
A set of lanes allocated to a particular movement in exclusive lanes, or to

several movements with common shared lanes.
lane IRI
A combination of the surface profiles of two wheel tracks. There are two
methods to calculate lane IRI, viz lane IRIqc (quarter car) and lane IRIhc (half
car). Austroads favours the quarter-car method, with the lane IRIqc
commonly expressed as IRI.
lane line
A line (usually painted), other than the centreline, that divides adjacent
traffic lanes.
lane narrowings
Methods to narrow the width of the road to reduce vehicle speed and
pedestrian crossing distances.
lane numbering
On a multilane road-way, the traffic lanes available for through traffic

travelling in the same direction are numbered from left to right, when facing
in the direction of traffic flow.
lane occupancy
The proportion of time, over a given time interval, that there is a vehicle
present at a specified point in the lane.
lane separator
A separator provided between lanes carrying traffic in the same direction to

discourage or prevent lane changing, or to separate a portion of a speed
change lane from through lanes.
lantern (traffic)
The unit that houses traffic signal aspects facing in one direction.
large bus
A bus having an occupant capacity, including the driver, of over 20

persons.
large indivisible item
(NHVR)
A large item that cannot:

a) be divided without extreme effort, expense or risk of damage to it; and
b) be carried on any vehicle or combination without contravening a mass
requirement or dimension requirement.
laser profilometer (laser

profiler)
A vehicle fitted with a laser-based measurement system that records the

shape of the pavement surface profile. When used to collect roughness
data, records the measured longitudinal road profile.
Term
Definition
last kilometre
Refers to the final segment of the supply chain where goods are delivered
to their final destination, or are picked up from an origin. Access is usually
via local roads. Also known as last mile.
latent defect (RMS ITS)
A defect which exists and remains undiscovered prior to the system

entering into operation.
Also see defect.
latent demand
Quantity of demand that is suppressed through the unavailability of a

transport service.
latent unavailability (RMS ITS)
The proportion of time a system or component remains inoperable while

not being used or not being required to be used.
lateral force
The component of the tyre force vector in the Y direction.
lateral friction
The force which, when generated between the tyre and the road surface,
assists a vehicle to maintain a circular path.
lateral re-direction
The lateral position of the vehicle after impact.
lateritic gravel
A surface or near-surface accumulation of hard nodular iron oxide particles,

often with aluminium hydroxide and kaolin clay, which has formed as a
result of rock weathering under warm, wet climatic conditions.
late start
The phase interval used at the start of a phase for delaying the start of
some movements.
late-start feature
A feature of a traffic signal controller whereby a certain signal group is

commenced later than other signal groups on the same phase.
latex
A milky colloidal suspension of natural rubber, cis-polyisoprene, obtained

mainly from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) and which is unstable and
tends to crystallise during extension. Synthetic latex, composed of transpolymers or a mixture of cis- and trans-polymers, may be produced by
polymerisation of one or more monomers.
LATM (local area traffic

management)
see local area traffic management
lay by
An area usually on rural roads or highways where vehicles may draw out of
the through carriageway and park.
layer
The portion of a pavement course placed and compacted as an entity.
layer equivalency
The thickness of an unbound pavement layer which may be replaced by a

unit thickness of bound material.
LCD
Liquid crystal display.
LCS
see lane-control system
LCV
see light commercial vehicle
leaching
The removal of soluble material and colloids by percolating water.
lead trailer (NHVR)
A semi-trailer with a fifth-wheel assembly mounted over the rear axle

group, usually the first trailer in a B-double or other B-coupled combination
(e.g. B-triple).
leading point of need
In relation to a roadside hazard, the first point at which the road safety
barrier is needed to prevent an errant vehicle from striking the hazard (see
point of need).
leading right turn
An arrow-controlled right turn movement that is started and terminated in

the phase that immediately precedes the phase in which the opposing
through movement runs.
Term
Definition
leading terminal
The terminal treatment at the end of a road safety barrier that faces
vehicles approaching in the adjacent traffic lane.
lead-lag right-turn phasing
A phase sequence that commences with a fully-controlled leading right turn

from one approach, followed by a through phase, and terminates with a
lagging right turn from the opposing approach.
lead vehicle
A vehicle used at the head of mobile works on two-way carriageways to

give advance warning of the works to traffic approaching from the opposite
direction and to enable the driver to alert following workers of any
impending danger.
lean mix concrete
Cement concrete that has a lower cement content than pavement concrete,
and consequently will attain a lower mechanical strength.
learner permit
A car learner permit allows a person to drive a car under supervision of a

fully licensed driver. A motorcycle learner permit allows a person to ride a
motorcycle unsupervised but with restrictions on the type of motorcycle
they may ride. In some jurisdictions speed limits are imposed on drivers
holding learner permits, depending on the issuing authority. In Australia
and New Zealand, learners are required to have zero BAC when driving.
LEDs
see light emitting diodes
left-in/left-out island
A partial road closure incorporating a raised triangular island at an

intersection approach that obstructs right turns, and through movements, to
and from the intersection, street or driveway.
left-right staggered junction
A junction in which a driver turns left on entering the intersecting

carriageway and then right in order to continue the route. Note: The
preferred configuration is a right-left staggered junction.
left traffic lane arrows
Traffic lane arrows applying to a marked lane, which indicate only a

direction to the left.
left-turn lane
see turning lane
left wheel path
Wheel path closest to the left-hand edge of a traffic lane when viewed from
the driving position looking forwards.
leg
Right of way that forms an approach and/or departure to an intersection.

The right of way may contain roadways, footways and bikeways.
legibility distance
The maximum distance that the various types of traffic control signs or
devices are clearly seen under normal operating conditions, and where
there is no restriction to the line of sight.
length of need
The length of a road safety barrier system, excluding leading or trailing

terminals, needed to prevent errant vehicles from impacting a hazard,
representing the length over which a road safety barrier will re-direct an
impacting errant vehicle. It is the distance between the leading and trailing
points of need - effectively the length of the road safety barrier less
terminals.
levee
An earth or rock embankment constructed to prevent flooding of low-lying

land. It is used to control the level or direction of flow of a watercourse at a
culvert or elsewhere.
level crossing
see at-grade crossing
levelling course (regulation

course, correction course)
An asphalt course of varying thickness applied to a pavement surface to

adjust its shape preparatory to overlaying with another course or applying a
sprayed seal.
Term
Definition
level of service (LOS)
A qualitative index for ranking operating conditions on roads as well as

pedestrian and cycling facilities based on factors such as speed, flow rate,
travel time, freedom to manoeuvre, interruptions, comfort, safety, and
convenience.
LiDAR (Light Detection and

Ranging)
A 3D imaging technology that measures distance to a target by illuminating

it with a laser and analysing the reflected light. LiDAR sensors are mounted
on several moving platforms such as vehicles, aircraft, boats, trains and
satellites.
life-cycle cost
The sum of the acquisition costs (planning, investigation, design and

construction) and the ownership costs (maintenance, rehabilitation,
operating expenses, and disposal) of an asset over its entire life.
Also see life-cycle management.
life-cycle management (RMS
The process of managing the entire lifecycle of an asset or system from
ITS)
inception, through design and manufacture, to operational service and

eventual disposal. This process integrates various people, data, processes
and business systems.
Also see life cycle cost.
light bus
A bus having a gross vehicle mass (GVM) not exceeding 5 t.
light commercial vehicles
Motor vehicles constructed for the carriage of goods and which are less
than or equal to 3.5 tonnes GVM. This includes utilities, panel vans, cabchassis and goods carrying vans (four-wheel drive or not).
light emitting diodes

(LEDs)
A semiconductor device that emits visible light when an electric current

passes through it. Advantages of LEDs compared with incandescent and
fluorescent illuminating devices, include low power requirement, high
efficiency and long life.
light freight vehicles
see light commercial vehicles
light rigid truck
Rigid trucks of gross vehicle mass greater than 3.5 tonnes and less than or
equal to 4.5 tonnes.
light vehicle (NHVR)
A vehicle that is not a heavy vehicle.
lightly-trafficked road
A road carrying average annual daily traffic of up to 1500 vehicles.
light traffic thoroughfare
Specific signposted road that excludes the use of the road by certain
vehicles.
lightweight aggregate
An aggregate composed of inorganic materials having a particle density on

a dry basis of less than 2.1 t/m3.
lightweight concrete
A structural concrete, the density of which is reduced by using lightweight

aggregate such as expanded or foamed blast furnace slag, scoria or
shales, or by the entrainment of air.
lime mortar
A mixture of cement or lime with sand and water.
lime stabilisation
The controlled application of lime to improve the load carrying capacity of a

pavement layer (usually the basecourse) or of the subgrade.
limestone
A metamorphic rock, composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) sometimes

used as filler or as an aggregate in pavements and concrete.
limited access road
NZ: A road declared under the Transit New Zealand Act, or created under
the Public Works Act, as a means of controlling access between roads and
properties (also see controlled access road).
limit line
see give-way line, stop line
Term
Definition
linear parking control
A form of parking control where signage is used to delineate an individual

length of kerb, or in the centre of the road, by signposting one or more
parking zone, no stopping, no parking or clearway panels together.
linear shrinkage (LS)
The percentage decrease in length of a soil sample in a mould when dried

under standard testing conditions from the liquid limit state.
linemarking
Lines, painted or otherwise applied, that delineate lane boundaries and

guide traffic with respect to overtaking and the like.
line of sight
The direct line of uninterrupted view between a driver and an object of

specified height above the carriageway in the lane of travel.
Line Replaceable Unit

(LRU)
A unit designed to be removed upon failure from a larger entity (product or

item) in the operational environment, normally at the organizational level.
link
1.
In a road network, portion of a road between two intersections. (Note: Its

basic characteristics are length, vehicle speeds, travel times and number of
lanes).
2.
In a public transport network, portion of a route between stations or bus or

tram stops. (Note: Its basic characteristics are length, the modes which use
it, vehicle speeds, travel times and frequencies).
3.
In traffic assignment, a connection between two nodes.
4.
A road section between junctions or interchanges.
5.
A length of road defined for strategic and reporting purposes, generally of

the order of 100 km to 300 km, but can be longer in remote areas (e.g.
Katherine to Alice Springs (1,100 km) and Port Hedland to Broome (600
km)).
link class
Type of link in a road network (e.g. freeways, arterial roads), which is used
to identify different modes in a transit network that is coded in a road
network format.
link count
A link count is the number of vehicles passing an observation point along a

road link over a given period. The count may be bi-directional (i.e. a twoway total), or may be split into separate counts for the two directions of
flow.
linked trip
One-way movement from one place to another for a specific purpose,

involving more than one mode of travel.
linking
see coordination
link load
Volume of travel assigned to a link.
lip
The edge of a gutter adjacent to the pavement.
lively
The state of being workable as applied to premix patching materials.
Term
load
Definition
1.
Pavement: A single truckload of material comprising one or more batches.
2.
Pavement: The force applied to the surface of a road or bridge.
3.
Vehicle:
Load, of a heavy vehicle or in a heavy vehicle, means
a) all the goods, passengers, drivers and other persons in the vehicle;
and
b) all fuel, water, lubricants and readily removable equipment carried in
the vehicle and required for its normal use; and
c) personal items used by the vehicles driver or someone else necessary
for the normal use of the vehicle; and
d) anything that is normally removed from the vehicle when not in use.
(NHVR)
load capacity
The difference between the gross vehicle mass (GVM) and gross
combination mass (GCM) of the vehicle and its tare mass.
load carrying capacity
The maximum load which a bridge may safely carry without suffering
significant permanent deterioration or distress.
load carrying vehicle (NHVR)
In the context of a Class 1 heavy vehicle, this is a heavy vehicle carrying,

or designed for the purpose of carrying, a large indivisible item, including,
for example, a combination including a low loader.
Generally speaking, a heavy vehicle that carries a load of some
description.
load equivalency factors
load factor
The ratio of the number of repetitions of a specified axle load (termed the
standard load) which the pavement can sustain to the number of repetitions
of another axle load which the same pavement can sustain for given
damage criteria.
1.
Measure of the degree of utilisation of an approach to a signalised

intersection.
2.
Measure of the degree of utilisation of a freight vehicles capacity.
3.
Ratio of the number of passengers to the total passenger capacity of public

transport vehicles.
Load restraint guide (NHVR)
A document of that name prepared by the National Transport Commission

and published in the Commonwealth Gazette, from time to time.
loaded mass (NHVR)
The vehicles mass together with the mass of the vehicles load that is
transmitted to the ground.
loading
1.
Process of determining the link loads by selecting routes of travel and

accumulating the trip volumes on each link that is traversed.
2.
Trip patronage for public transport vehicles.
loading dock
A specific area set aside for loading and unloading a commercial vehicle
often allowing the operation to be carried out from a raised platform.
loading island
A traffic island provided for the use of pedestrians awaiting, boarding or

leaving a public transport vehicle (see traffic island).
load-sharing suspension
An axle group suspension system that divides the load between the tyres
on the group so that no tyre carries a mass more than 10% greater than the
mass it would carry if the load were divided equally (it has effective
damping characteristics on all axles of the group).
local access path
Minor path generally located in a local or residential area that links road
and/or other path cycling routes.
Term
Definition
local area
An area containing only local and collector roads, which is bounded by

arterial and sub-arterial roads or features such as rivers, railway lines, or
the limit of urban development.
local area traffic

management (LATM)
The use of physical devices, streetscaping treatments and other measures

(including regulations and other non-physical measures) to influence
vehicle operation, in order to create safer and more liveable local streets.
Note: The use of the acronym LATM as a noun to mean device, common in
some parts of Australia, is best avoided.
local by-passable traffic
Term normally used to refer to short distance traffic that can be diverted,
usually at the expense of increased distance, not increased time.
local government authority
For a participating jurisdiction, means an entity that is declared by a law of

that jurisdiction to be a local government authority for that jurisdiction for
the purposes of the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
(NHVR)
local interlinking
A signal coordination system comprising a small number of closely-spaced

signals, interconnected by a cable, usually with one of the signal controllers
assuming the role of master controller.
local (traffic) precinct
An area, sometimes a sub-area within a local traffic area, containing only

local streets, where specific local problems exist which can be treated
separately from other parts of the local traffic area.
local road
A road or street primarily used for access to abutting properties.
local street
A street whose main function is to provide access to and from adjacent

land uses.
local traffic area
A traffic analysis area usually bounded by arterial roads or other roads

serving a significant road transportation function, or other physical barriers
such as creeks, railways, reserves or impassable terrain.
location
A single site (either an intersection or a point along a road), a route (length

of road), or an area covering a number of roads. In connection with mass
action programs it also means a multitude of locations across a road
network which have a common hazardous feature.
location referencing
Identification of road asset location, usually by linear or spatial methods.
location system
A tool enabling asset data to be accurately identified with respect to the

physical asset over a long period of time. It generally comprises permanent
land marks and reference points, and a database.
lock-in coat (scatter coat)
A light application of small size aggregate to temporarily lock in a larger

size aggregate seal to reduce aggregate movement during rolling and initial
trafficking.
locking up
A traffic phenomenon at intersections in which entering traffic blocks the

route of traffic exiting, and brings all movements to a standstill.
logical architecture
An extension of reference architecture, including system components,

linkages and inter-relationships. Also indicates the nature of data and
information exchange required for each function or service.
Also see system architecture, reference architecture, and physical
architecture
logistic delay time (RMS ITS)
The time a system is unavailable due to logistics system delays associated

with the maintenance action (e.g. obtaining required parts, or other logistics
resources).
long rigid bus
A bus, no greater than 14.5 metres long, permitted controlled (restricted)

access to the road network. Also be referred to as a controlled-access bus.
Term
Definition
long-term pavement
performance studies
(LTPP)
The monitoring of the structural and/or functional performance of sections

of in-service pavement over a long period of time.
longitudinal force
The component of the tyre force vector in the X direction.
longitudinal friction
The friction between vehicle tyres and the road pavement measured in the
longitudinal direction.
longitudinal friction factor
The friction between vehicle tyres and the road pavement under locked
wheel braking conditions, measured in the longitudinal direction.
longitudinal joint
A planned joint in the direction of traffic flow in base concrete which is

either formed or induced and across which, generally mid-slab are 1 m
long, 12 mm diameter tiebars at various centres, typically 0.5 to 0.75 m
centres. The joints are usually located near longitudinal edge and lane
lines, and are held together by tiebars. Longitudinal joints are generally
avoided in bridge decks due to issues with cyclists and motorcyclists.
longitudinal profile
The shape of a pavement surface measured as the vertical distance from a

datum horizontal plane along the direction of traffic flow.
longitudinal section
A vertical section, usually with an exaggerated vertical scale, showing the

existing surface levels along a road or bridge centreline, or other specified
line. It commonly shows also the levels to which the road or bridge is to be
constructed or reconstructed.
LOS
see level of service
Los Angeles (abrasion)

value
A measure of the ability of an aggregate to withstand abrasion and impact

in a dry environment.
lost time
The amount of time in a cycle which is effectively lost to traffic movement

because of starting delays, the falling-off of the discharge rate which occurs
during the yellow period and any all-red periods.
lot
A continuous portion of homogeneous and/or representative material, or

end product produced under essentially constant conditions usually within
one shift.
louvers
An assembly of mechanical baffles mounted within the visor to reduce sunphantom (horizontal louvres) or to restrict the angular coverage of a signal
(vertical louvres).
low-alcohol hours
see alcohol hours
low loader
1.
A trailer with a loading deck no more than 1m above the ground. (NHVR)
2.
A gooseneck semi-trailer with a loading deck no more than 1 m above the

ground.
Lowry model
Land-use model that divides employment into basic (export oriented) and
non-basic (population serving) types. Households and non-basic employment
are located relative to a distance function and land availability constraint.
low-speed off-tracking
The maximum width of the swept path in a prescribed 90 low-speed turn.
lumen
Unit of luminous flux, a measure of the total and of visible light emitted by a
source.
luminance
Luminance at a point of a surface and in a given direction is the luminous

intensity per unit projected area of a light emitting or reflecting surface.
luminous intensity
Luminous Intensity in a given direction is the luminous flux emitted by a

light source in an infinitesimal cone containing the given direction divided
by the solid angle of that cone.
Term
Definition
lurch
The acceleration of a vehicle along its transverse axis.
lute
A hand tool for spreading and smoothing pavement materials. It consists of

a straight edge transversely mounted on a long handle.
MA
see measurement adjustment
macadam (waterbound
macadam)
A layer of coarse single sized aggregate of about 50 mm, first interlocked

by rolling and then bound with smaller stone, gravel, etc., which is forced
into the interstices by brooming, watering and rolling.
macrosimulation
A type of simulation where vehicles are represented as a traffic stream or a

platoon. It is particularly useful for signal timing optimisation.
Macrotexture
The deviations of the surface profile of the pavement from a true planar
surface with the characteristic dimensions of wavelength and amplitude
from 0.5 mm up to those that no longer affect tyre-pavement interaction
( 50 mm).
main mode of travel
Journeys involving more than one transport mode: the mode of travel used
for the longest distance or, in the case of equal distances, the mode of
travel used for the greatest time.
maintainability (RMS ITS)
The measure of the ability of an item to be retained in or restored to

specified condition when maintenance is performed by personnel having
specified skill levels, using prescribed procedures and resources, at each
prescribed level of maintenance and repair.
Maintainable Unit (MU) (RMS
A component of a system intended to be able to be maintained.
ITS)
maintenance (routine
maintenance, periodic
maintenance)
All actions necessary for retaining an asset as near as practicable to its

original condition, or to reduce its rate of deterioration.
Also see Mean Corrective Maintenance Time (MCMT), Mean Preventative
Maintenance Time (MPMT), Mean Time Between Maintenance (MTBM),
Predictive Maintenance, Preventative Maintenance, Proactive
Maintenance, Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM), Scheduled
Maintenance and Servicing.
maintenance action (RMS ITS)
An element of a maintenance event. One or more tasks (i.e. fault

localisation, fault isolation, servicing and inspection) necessary to retain an
item or restore it to a specified condition.
maintenance job (in

workflow) (RMS ITS)
Refers to a method, process or activity performing maintenance on a

maintainable unit, asset or system.
maintenance intervention
level (intervention level)
The value of a condition parameter which triggers maintenance

investigation or activity.
maintenance management
accreditation (NHVR)
maintenance management
system
1.
An accreditation exempting, for a period of not more than three (3) years,
the vehicle from the requirement to be inspected before the vehicle may be
registered, or
2.
Accreditation of a similar kind under another law of a participating

jurisdiction.
A systematic approach to maintenance planning, budgeting and work,
usually supported by software to assist in organising and analysing data on
pavement and surface inventory and condition as well as on maintenance
activities (e.g. type, costs, productivity, location, history).
Term
Definition
maintenance plan
A budgeting tool consisting of a list of costed activities scheduled over a

period of three to five years, reviewed annually, with year one activities
funded, and aimed at maintaining the asset within specified maintenance
standards.
maintenance specifications
(RMS ITS)
A specification written to define the steps necessary for carrying out

maintenance work.
major parts breakdown (RMS
A schedule of major parts or elements of a signification asset.
ITS)
major/minor road system
System for control of a road network in which the priority at intersections or

junctions is determined by the relative importance of the approach roads.
major road
A road to which is assigned a permanent priority for traffic movement over

that of other roads.
major service area
A service area regularly serviced by heavy rigid or articulated vehicles or

both and having more than one service bay.
making safe (RMS ITS)
The process necessary to prevent function of a system or to interrupt it to

place it in a safe state.
maltenes
The constituents of bitumen soluble in carbon tetrachloride, carbon

disulphide and in aromatic-free low-boiling point petroleum spirit. The
maltene fraction of a bitumen generally comprises resins and oils.
managed freeway
A freeway system in which traffic movements are actively managed using a

range of ITS tools e.g. ramp metering and variable speed limits. Also
known as managed motorway.
management segment
A length of road pavement that is relatively uniform in treatment history,

current condition, terrain, and traffic usage, with length generally between
0.5 km and 1.75 km (or up to 5 km in remote areas).
manhole
A shaft or container which provides access to a sewer, drain or other

underground service.
manoeuvre
Any action on the part of a driver with regard to merging, weaving or

overtaking.
manoeuvre area
The area in which merging, weaving, or overtaking movements occur.
manoeuvring area
The area between the access driveway or circulation roadway and the
parking or service bays in which vehicles manoeuvre.
manual count
The collection of traffic survey data by observers at a site.
manual survey
see manual count
marginal aggregate
An aggregate which does not meet conventional aggregate specifications

but is suitable for specific use in pavements.
marginal friction
1.
The retarding effect on the free flow of traffic caused by interference of any
sort at either edge of a carriageway or traffic lane, other than at an
intersection.
2.
Friction force acting on a vehicle during cornering.
marked foot crossing
A transverse strip of carriageway marked for the use of pedestrians

crossing the road (mid-block or at an intersection) controlled by vehicular
and pedestrian signals.
marked lane
An area of a road marked by continuous or broken lines, or rows of studs or

markers, on the road surface, which is designed for use by a single line of
vehicles.
Term
Definition
marker post
A post placed at the edge of the trafficable road, equipped with a reflector
to assist night driving.
markings
Any lines painted on the road to control traffic movement or parking.
Marshall test
A method used for the design and production control of asphalt mixes
which ensures adequate stability, voids and durability.
mass action program
Applying a particular, well tried remedy to address a hazardous feature, at

all locations where the feature is present irrespective of whether accidents
have occurred.
mass concrete
Unreinforced concrete, commonly used in a thin layer to provide a clean

even surface for supporting of reinforcement during construction.
mass diagram
A curve plotted on a distance base, the ordinate at any point of which

represents the algebraic sum up to that point of the volume of cut and fill
from the start of the earthworks or from any arbitrary point.
mass haul diagram
A graph on a base of distance showing cross-sectional area of cutting and

fill on which the destination of the material from each cutting is indicated. It
is often reduced to a diagram showing rectangles having areas proportional
to cut or fill volumes.
mass limits (NHVR)
The maximum allowable mass of an axle or axle group, vehicle or vehicle

combination. Common mass limit regimes include General Mass Limits,
Concessional Mass Limits and Higher Mass Limits.
mass management
accreditation (NHVR)
An accreditation allowing, for a period of not more than three (3) years, the
vehicle to operate at concessional mass limits or higher mass limits
applying under the mass requirements.
mass or dimension
authority (NHVR)
1.
A mass or dimension exemption; or
2.
A Class 2 heavy vehicle authorisation.
mass or dimension
exemption (NHVR)
1.
A mass or dimension exemption (notice); or
2.
A mass or dimension exemption (permit).
mast-arm post
An extended post used for mounting and displaying traffic signal lanterns
above the carriageway.
master controller
A traffic signal controller controlling a system of secondary controllers.
masterlink
The fully-adaptive mode of operation of the SCATS control system.
mastic
An intimate mixture of fine mineral matter and bitumen in such proportions

as to form a coherent, voidless, impermeable mass, which is spread hot by
means of a float. It is used for filling joints, waterproofing concrete slabs, etc.
MATerials Testing
Apparatus (MATTA)
Used to test stiffness modulus, fatigue life and creep, and enables testing
of a range of materials from unbound to the stiffest asphalts and some
cement-based materials. The MATTA is an affordable system for routine
testing but with the versatility to carry out detailed research investigations.
The MATTA is the preferred testing machine for a number of Australian
Standard test methods.
matrix
A mixture of binding material and fine aggregate in which large aggregate

is embedded or held in place.
MATTA
see MATerials Testing Apparatus
maximum change
The termination of a green aspect in a traffic-actuated signal controller,

which occurs upon the expiration of the maximum running period.
maximum deflection (D0)
The measured maximum vertical movement of the pavement under load.
Term
Definition
maximum density (void

free density)
The maximum density that could be achieved in a sample of asphalt if it

were possible to compact it so as to exclude all air voids between coated
aggregate particles.
maximum dry density

(MDD)
The dry density of soil obtained by a specified amount of compaction at the

optimum moisture content.
maximum remaining
service life (MRSL)
The difference between the maximum service life (MSL) and the current
age of the pavement.
maximum running period
The maximum time for which a traffic-actuated signal controller can display
a green aspect for a particular signal group under conditions of continued
demand for that signal group. (maximum green in Victoria).
maximum service life

(MSL)
The estimated maximum number of years before the specified

maintenance treatment needs renewal.
maximum vehicle speed
Maximum speed attainable without exceeding the engine manufacturers

rated speed established by calculation or on the basis of a test under
maximum vehicle acceleration from a standing start for 1.6 km at the
relevant normal loaded vehicle mass.
MDL (NHVR)
Mean Corrective
Maintenance Time (MCMT)
(RMS ITS)
Mean Down Time (MDT)

(RMS ITS)
Mean Preventative
Maintenance Time (MPMT)
(RMS ITS)
1.
Mass, Dimension and Loading as in the Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension

and Loading) National Regulation.
2.
Mass, Distance, Location as in a potential user-pays road pricing scheme

(see HVCL).
The average time required to accomplish repair actions within the defined
steps of corrective maintenance which occurs at random intervals.
Also see Maintenance, Mean Preventative Maintenance Time (MPMT),
Mean Time Between Maintenance (MTBM), Predictive Maintenance,
Preventative Maintenance, Proactive Maintenance, Reliability Centred
Maintenance (RCM), Scheduled Maintenance and Servicing.
The average time a system is unavailable for use, or not in a condition to
perform a required function due to repairs and preventative maintenance. It
also includes the time associated with logistic and administrative delays.
Average time required (as part of the maintenance time) during which
preventive maintenance is performed on an item.
Also see Maintenance, Mean Corrective Maintenance Time (MCMT), Mean
Time Between Maintenance (MTBM), Predictive Maintenance, Preventative
Maintenance, Proactive Maintenance, Reliability Centred Maintenance
(RCM), Scheduled Maintenance and Servicing.
mean profile depth
A mean measure of macrotexture, where the pavement surface profile is

divided into small segments of a given base length, typically 100 mm,
which are analysed and the mean segment depths averaged to give an
average value for a specific length of profile.
mean queue length
The average number of vehicles waiting at the stop line at the

commencement of a phase.
mean texture depth (sand

patch)
The average texture depth of the surface of a road expressed as the

quotient of a given volume of standardised material and the area of that
material spread in a circular patch on the surface being tested.
mean time between

failures (a signal
maintenance term) (MTBF)
The mean time between failures of a system. Calculations of MTBF

assume that a system is renewed, i.e. fixed, after each failure, and then
returned to service immediately after failure.
Term
Definition
Mean Time Between

Maintenance (MTBM) (RMS
The average time between all system maintenance actions. Maintenance

actions could be preventative or corrective maintenance actions. MTBM
includes all maintenance actions, including repairing design or
manufacturing failures and maintenance-induced failures, and other actions
(e.g. removal of an item to facilitate other maintenance).
Preventative Maintenance Time (MPMT), Predictive Maintenance,
Preventative Maintenance, Proactive Maintenance, Reliability Centred
Maintenance (RCM), Scheduled Maintenance and Servicing.
ITS)
mean time to detect

(MTTD)
The mean time between failure and detection that a failure has occurred.
Mean Time to Failure

(MTTF) (RMS ITS)
A basic measure of reliability for non-repairable systems. It is the average

failure-free time during a particular measurement period.
mean time to repair

(MTTR)
1.
The time required for renewal or repair (i.e. from the start of the down state
to the restoration of the up state) necessary to restore complete normal
system operation. This time can be dependent upon a number of factors:
Time to detect a failure
Support service mobilisation time
Time for fault diagnostics and isolation
Spares acquisition
Component replacement time
System recovery time
(RMS ITS)
2.
The total corrective maintenance time divided by the total number of

corrective maintenance actions during a given period of time (a signal
maintenance term).
measured dimension (NHVR)
The length, width or height of a heavy vehicle or combination and/or its

load as displayed on the measuring equipment.
measured mass (NHVR)
The mass of an axle or axle group, heavy vehicle or combination as

displayed on the weighing equipment.
measurement adjustment
(MA) (NHVR)
An adjustment applied to the measured mass or measured dimension of a

vehicle or vehicle combination in determining compliance with the relevant
mass or dimension requirements.
measurement repeatability
An indication of variation in measures about the mean.
mechanistic analysis
A design procedure based on stress analysis and fundamental material

behaviour in pavements.
medial friction
The retarding effect on the free flow of traffic caused by interference

between traffic proceeding in opposite directions on a carriageway.
median
A strip of road, not normally intended for use by traffic, which separates
carriageways for traffic in opposite directions. Usually formed by painted
lines, kerbed and paved areas, grassed areas, etc.
median application (road

safety barrier)
A road safety barrier system when it is installed in a median location. Can

be impacted from both sides.
median barrier
see traffic median barrier
median island
A short length of median serving a localised purpose in an otherwise

undivided road.
Term
median lane
Definition
1.
The traffic lane nearest the median.
2.
A speed change lane within the median to accommodate right turning

vehicles.
median opening
A gap in a median provided for crossing and turning traffic.
median strip
A dividing strip designed or developed to separate vehicles travelling in

opposite directions.
median strip parking area
A parking area on or in a median strip.
megatexture
Surface irregularities with wave lengths between 50 mm and 500 mm,

related to small defects in the surfacing, such as rutting, potholes, patching,
stone loss (stripping), ravelling, major joints and major cracks.
merging
The converging of separate streams of traffic into a single stream.
mesh reinforcement
Factory made mesh sheets or rolls of plain hard-drawn steel wire,

consisting of longitudinal wires with cross wires welded to them, for use as
reinforcement for concrete. Grading of material is designated in millimetres
for sizes 1 mm and above, and in micrometres for sizes less than 1 mm.
metered access
A system of allowing vehicles to enter a highway or road only when a

control mechanism allows it. The mechanism can, therefore, control traffic
by allowing vehicles to enter only when traffic permits (see access control).
Micro-Deval test
A drum-like device using water to assess the abrasion resistance of

aggregate.
microsimulation
A type of simulation where the movement of individual vehicles is traced

through a road network. This technique is useful for a wide range of
applications but is more resource intensive than macrosimulation.
microsurfacing
A bituminous slurry surfacing, usually containing polymer, which is capable

of being spread in variably thick layers for rut-filling and correction courses,
and for wearing course applications where good surface texture is required
to be maintained throughout the service life.
microtexture
Surface irregularities with wave lengths less than 0.5 mm, associated with
asperities on the surface of individual pieces of aggregate which make up
the road surface.
microwave interferometry
Use of electromagnetic waves to measure small movements and resonant

frequencies of a structure subject to dynamic loading/effects. The
interferometer device is typically positioned in a fixed location and simply
pointed at the structure to undertake the measurements.
mid-block capacity
The capacity of a road between intersections.
mid-block medians
A flush or raised island placed along the centreline of the road that narrows
the carriageway and can provide pedestrians with a safe place to take
refuge. Medians are thus similar in their calming effect to kerb extensions.
milling
Removing the surface of a pavement (typically 25 to 75 mm in depth) with a

machine equipped with a transverse rotating cutter drum.
mineral aggregate
(aggregate)
Materials composed of discrete mineral particles (chips) of specified size or

size distribution. They are produced from sand, gravel, rock, metallurgical
slag or artificial stone, using one or more of the following processes:
selective extraction, screening, blasting, and crushing.
mineral filler (filler)
A fine material, the majority of which passes a 0.075 mm sieve, derived

from aggregate or other similar granular material and commonly used in
slurry sealing and asphalt.
Term
Definition
minibus
see small bus
minimum change
The termination of a green aspect in a traffic signal controller, which occurs

upon the expiration of the initial running period.
minimum gap sight

distance (MGSD)
The sight distance acceptable to a driver or rider to enter or cross a

conflicting traffic stream.
minimum path
That route of travel between two points which has the least accumulation of
impedance.
minimum running period
see initial running period
minimum turning path
The path of a designated point on a vehicle making its sharpest turn.
minimum turning radius
The radius of the minimum turning path of the outside of the outer front tyre
of a vehicle.
minor service area (heavy

vehicles)
A service area occasionally served by heavy rigid vehicles or with provision

for not more than a total of ten medium rigid and smaller commercial
vehicles.
mission (RMS ITS)
A specific and objective operational task or job that the system is assigned
to perform.
mix
The proportions of ingredients in a quantity of concrete or mortar or

asphalt.
mix design
The designed portion of component materials comprising the slurry.
mixing plant
The equipment used to manufacture asphalt, concrete, basecourse

materials, etc.
mixing time dry
The time during which all the aggregates and filler are being mixed together
in the pugmill of a batch mixing plant without the binder.
mixing time total
The sum of dry and wet mixing times.
mixing time wet
The time during which the binder is mixing with the aggregate in the pugmill
of a batch plant.
mobile work
Work that entails vehicles moving progressively along the roadway at

speeds significantly lower than other traffic, with all signs and devices being
either vehicle mounted or regularly moved along the road.
mobility management
European term for travel demand management.
modal choice
Choice on the use of different forms of transport related to individual,

business or household characteristics and the travel parameters of the
competing modes.
modal choice model
Mathematical model used to allocate trips between zones to each of the

reasonable modes of transport available, which is normally applied on the
basis of the relationship between disutilities for each mode and the socioeconomic characteristics of the likely users.
modal interchange
A transport node of a major nature, which has a facility where people can
readily change from one mode of transport to another (see interchanging
and public transport nodes).
modal split
Describes the percentage of people or goods on different forms of transport

e.g. the percentage of people using private cars as opposed to public
transport.
mode
Method of transport e.g. motor vehicle travel (as driver or passenger), bus,
light rail, cycling and walking.
Term
Definition
model
Mathematical description of a situation that uses data on past and present

conditions to make predictions about the effects of changes.
modification
The improvement of the properties of a material by the addition of small

quantities of an additive by the stabilisation process.
modified asphalt
An asphalt in which the binder has been modified by the incorporation of

polymers, resins, rubber or other material to achieve specific physical
properties.
modified binder
Binder with enhanced performance achieved by the incorporation of

additives (polymers, resins, rubber or other material) or special processing
to achieve specific physical properties.
modified compaction
Compaction using a 4.9 kg rammer falling a height of 450 mm and

compacted over five layers.
modified material
Granular materials to which small amounts of stabilising agent have been

added to improve their performance (e.g. by reducing plasticity) without
causing a significant increase in structural stiffness.
modified structural number

(SNC)
A pavement strength parameter, being a refinement of the AASHO Road

Test estimation of pavement strength (structural number), which directly
takes into account the subgrade contribution to pavement strength. The
modified structural number (SNC) is equal to the structural number (SN)
that would be required if the pavement were to be designed to carry the
same traffic on a subgrade with a CBR value of 3%.
modified T-intersection
A three-way intersection treatment using raised medians, signage and

other delineation to modify the priority and to slow and physically direct
traffic through an intersection.
modular (RMS ITS)
Employing or involving a module or modules as the basis of design or

construction
module (RMS ITS)
A set of standardised parts or independent units that can be used to

construct a more complex structure to achieve interchangeability and
maximum configuration permutations with minimum component diversity.
modulus
The ratio of the applied stress and the resulting strain.

see flexural modulus, resilient modulus and Youngs modulus
moisture content (water

content)
The quantity of water which can be removed from a material by heating to

105oC until no further significant change in mass occurs; usually expressed
as a percentage of the dry mass.
moped
Low-powered and speed limited (usually to no more than 50km/h) scooters

with an engine capacity not exceeding 50cc.
mortar
1.
A mixture of cement and/or lime and sand with water.
2.
A mixture of fine aggregate with an epoxy compound or other binder.
motor vehicle (NHVR)
A vehicle built to be propelled by a motor that forms part of the vehicle.
motorway
A divided highway for through traffic with no access for traffic between
interchanges and with grade separation at some interchanges. Certain
activities or uses may be restricted or prohibited by legislative provision.
mountable kerb
A kerb designed to define the edge of a carriageway but which may be

mounted or driven across, if the need arises, with little to no risk of damage
to a vehicle.
movement
A stream of vehicles that enters from the same approach and departs from
the same exit (i.e. with the same origin and destination).
Term
Definition
movement diagrams
A set of diagrams depicting movements of traffic and/or pedestrians

permitted in each phase of the traffic signal cycle.
MRSL
see maximum remaining service life
MSL
see maximum service life
MTBF
see mean time between failures
MTTD
see mean time to detect
MTTR
see mean time to repair
mudjacking
A process which improves the support of a concrete slab by pumping in

cement, mud or bitumen.
mulching
The application of plant residues or other suitable material to the land

surface to conserve moisture, hold the soil in place, aid in establishing plant
cover, increase infiltration and minimise temperature fluctuations.
multi-combination vehicles
All articulated combinations of vehicles exceeding 19 m in length or 42.5

tonne gross mass, including B-doubles, road trains and truck-trailer
combinations.
multigrade bitumen
A bituminous binder which, at high service temperatures shows good

resistance to flow, and at low temperatures does not exhibit the high
stiffness (leading to brittleness) normally experienced with conventional
bitumen binders.
multilane
Two or more running lanes in one direction.
multilane road
One-way or two-way road, with two or more marked lanes (except bicycle
lanes) that are: 1. on the side of the dividing line or median strip where the
driver or rider is travelling; and 2. for the use of vehicles travelling in the
same direction.
multilane roundabout
A roundabout with one or more entry and/or exit carriageways and part or
all of the circulating carriageways designed for or operated as two or more
lanes or lines of traffic.
multi-laser profilometer
(multi-laser profiler)
A vehicle fitted with a laser-based measurement system consisting of

multiple lasers that measure and record the transverse road profile.
multileg intersection
An intersection having five or more legs.
multilevel interchange
An interchange in which there are mutually crossing carriageways at three

or more different levels.
multimodal
Combination of two or more modes of travel in a single journey.
multipath assignment
Any assignment process in which a trip can be proportioned to more than

one path.
multiple countermeasures
Package of road safety countermeasures implemented when a single

countermeasure will not suffice.
multi-tyred roller
A heavy roller having multiple tyres on two axles, used to compact

pavement layers including surfacings.
multiway intersection
see multileg intersection
Term
Definition
NAASRA Roughness
Meter
A standard mechanical device used for measuring road roughness by

recording the upward movement of the rear axle of a standard station
wagon relative to the vehicles body as the vehicle travels at a standard
speed along the road being tested. A cumulative upward vertical movement
of 15.2 mm corresponds to one NAASRA Roughness Count.
national data strategy

(NDS) (NHVR)
A strategy that will define the rules around data collection and usage and
may include privacy, access, quality and audit requirements for example.
National Exchange of
Vehicle and Driver
Information System
(NEVDIS) (NHVR)
Provides all Australian road agencies with access to national vehicle

registration and driver licensing information, and assists in reducing licence
fraud, vehicle theft and vehicle fraud.
National Heavy Vehicle

Regulator (NHVR)
The independent body established under the Heavy Vehicle National Law
to administer that law.
Australias national Regulator for all vehicles over 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle
mass administered under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. NHVR manages
the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme accreditations and
Performance Based Standards Scheme design and vehicle approvals
nationally.
national highway
A road which is a major link between adjacent capital cities.
National Transport
Commission (NTC) (NHVR)
The entity established by the National Transport Commission Act 2003 of

the Commonwealth.
It is an inter-governmental agency charged with improving the productivity,
safety and environmental performance of Australias road, rail and
intermodal transport system (see www.ntc.gov.au).
natural asphalt
A naturally-occurring mixture in which bitumen is associated with inert

mineral matter, e.g. Trinidad Lake asphalt.
nature strip
An area between a road (except a road-related area) and adjacent land,

but does not include a bicycle path, footpath, or shared path.
near side
The left side of a vehicle, that which is nearest the kerb.
negotiation speed
The speed of travel of a vehicle through a roundabout measured from a

point on an entry carriageway equal to the stopping distance in advance of
the holding line to a point where the vehicle exits from the circulating
carriageway.
net contact area
The area enclosing the pattern of the tyre tread in contact with a flat
surface, excluding the area of grooves or other depressions.
net present value (NPV)
The present value of a future benefit less the present value of future costs.
network
network description
1.
A connected system of roads and infrastructure that heavy vehicles can

travel on. Can be restricted to a certain class(es) of heavy vehicles. (NHVR)
2.
Set of roads which provide a means of road based travel within a region. In
transport terms it is defined in terms of links and nodes.
3.
A schematic mathematical model of a road or public transport system

which contains a link-by-link description of the routes covered by the public
transport system and the speed and capacities of road links.
Computer record that describes the transport system in terms of time,
distance and link and node attributes.
Term
Definition
network level
A type of road condition survey or data analysis where the main purpose is
to monitor network performance or assist with network asset management
decisions, as distinct from project decisions.
Network Operation Plan

(NOP)
A guide to the operation and development of the road or transport network

by setting out how competing priorities between transport modes and
adjacent land uses are to be managed. May contain short-term initiatives
and services that guide day-to-day operations and may also include longer
term improvement works.
Nilssons power model
A series of power equations developed by Nilsson to relate the change in

casualties and casualty crashes given a change in mean speed.
no-build alternative
Planning option of not building a proposed transport project such as a new

road, but improving the already existing transportation system. The no-build
alternative could include widening an existing road or increasing public
transport services.
node
Intersection points of links within a road network.
nominal size
A size designation of an aggregate which gives an indication of the largest

particle size present.
non-cohesive soil
A soil on which the fine fraction is lacking, resulting in a loss of the

cohesive bonds associated with this fraction.
non-current asset
An asset which has a useful life extending over more than one accounting
period (road infrastructure is invariably a non-current asset).
Non-destructive evaluation
(NDE)
Technologies that typically involve the use of sensors placed on, near or
within the structures surface to determine its capacity or the presence of
defects.
non-directional detector
A detector capable of being actuated by vehicles proceeding in either

direction.
non-gating terminal
A road safety barrier terminal that is designed to re-direct or contain an

impacting vehicle and absorb part of the energy of the impacting vehicle at
any point along the terminal without allowing it to pass through the device.
non-home based trip
Trip that does not start or finish at home.
non-ionic bitumen emulsion
A type of bitumen emulsion in which the suspended bitumen particles have

no electrical charge.
non-operational (RMS ITS)
Refers to the state of the asset or system that is not in required working
order or ready to use.
non-redirective crash
cushion
A crash cushion designed to contain and capture an impacting vehicle.
non-rigid road safety

barrier system
A road safety barrier system where elements are designed to move

substantially in a crash, and where energy is absorbed by movement of the
road safety barrier system and deformation of the vehicle.
non-safety related (RMS ITS)
A term applied to a condition, event, operation, function, process or

component whose failure or occurrence does not present an unacceptable
level of risk of harm or loss of life.
non-structural overlay
A pavement overlay which is not considered to contribute to the structural

performance of the pavement but only the functional performance.
non-structural shoulder
(concrete)
A shoulder that is not considered to reduce stresses in the structural

pavement sufficient to decrease the base thickness.
non-user benefits
see indirect benefits
Term
Definition
non-woven fabric
A fabric obtained by mechanical and/or chemical and/or thermal binding of

fibres arranged in layers excluding knitting and weaving.
no overtaking line
NZ: A continuous yellow painted line adjacent to the road centreline

marking, which indicates that overtaking is not permitted.
normal cross-section
The cross section of the carriageway where it is not affected by

superelevation or widening.
novice driver
New driver, typically holding a learner permit or probationary/provisional

licence.
nth highest hourly volume
This is denoted as n HV and is the nth highest volume in a year. 30 HV is

the 30th highest hourly volume in the year and is often used as a
representative traffic volume for road design, especially rural roads.
nuclear density meter

(NDM) (nuclear meter)
An instrument for the non-destructive determination of the density and

moisture content of a material using a radioactive source for its operation.
number plate survey
Survey involving the recording of vehicle licence plate numbers at different

locations for the purpose of developing origin-destination data.
obstruction markings
Patterns and devices used to emphasise the presence of physical

obstructions, in or near the carriageway, that constitute hazards to traffic.
OBU
see on-board unit
obvert
The highest portion of the internal surface of a drain or culvert.
occasional service
Service by a nominated design vehicle less than once per day.
occupancy
Proportion of the time that a designated point in a traffic lane is covered by

vehicles.
occupancy time
The time that starts when the front of a vehicle enters the detection zone
and finishes when the back of the vehicle exits the detection zone. Thus, it
is the duration of the period when the detection zone is occupied by a
vehicle.
OCR
see optical character recognition
OD matrix
see origin/destination matrix
OEM
see original equipment manufacturers
off-centre operation
see tidal flow
offlet drain
A V-drain constructed at an angle to the road to convey water from the

table drain away from the road.
off-peak hour
A representative hourly flow indicative of the average flow outside the peak
period.
off-peak period
The periods that have low demand volumes of traffic during the day (see
peak period).
off-ramp
A carriageway to allow vehicles to leave a freeway, motorway or

expressway.
offset
1.
Horizontal distance measured at right angles to a datum or reference line.
2.
In a traffic signal system, the difference in time between the same phasing
point (usually the start of the green) in the operation of adjacent signals.
Term
Definition
offsets
The difference between the start or end times of green periods at adjacent
(upstream and downstream) signals.
offside
The side of a vehicle furthest away from the kerb when the vehicle is
travelling in the normal direction of travel. It corresponds to the driver's side
of the vehicle. The offside of a road corresponds to the right-hand of the
carriageway when looking in the direction of travel.
off the shelf (RMS ITS)
Refers to components and equipment that are commercially produced,

ready-made, standardised, and readily available for purchasing.
off-tracking
The lateral distance that the last axle on the rear trailer tracks outside the
path of the steer axle, usually used for low-speed movements.
On-board mass monitoring
The measuring of a vehicles mass using on-board instrumentation. Allows

the payload to be measured at the point of loading, permitting the driver to
more accurately load the vehicle to legal weights over each axle group and
redistribute or off-load the freight if needs be to achieve the legal weights.
on-board survey
see in-vehicle survey
on-board unit
A collection of electronic equipment within a vehicle that assembles GPS

and vehicle sensor data and transmits it via a wireless communications link
to roadside infrastructure, other processing sites, and other vehicles.
one-way road
A road or street on which all vehicular traffic travels in the same direction.
one-way traffic
Vehicular traffic, the movement of which is restricted to one direction.
on-ramp
A carriageway to allow vehicles to join a freeway, expressway or motorway.
on-road public transport

(ORPT)
Includes on-road public transport such as buses, trams, taxis.
open-graded asphalt
A bituminous mix using aggregate containing only small amounts of fine

material, and providing a high percentage of air voids.
open subsoil drain
An open drain provided for the collection and removal of subsoil water
rather than surface water.
operating life (RMS ITS)
The period of time a component or system has been in use at its End Of
Life.
Also see End of Life, remaining operational life, remaining requisite life,
remaining service life, service life, useful life
operating speed
The 85th percentile speed of cars at a time when traffic volumes are low
and which allows a free choice of speed within the road alignment. NZ: The
highest overall speed, exclusive of stops, at which a driver can safely travel
on a given section of road under the prevailing traffic conditions.
Term
Definition
operational availability (RMS
The probability that the system will be ready to perform its specified
ITS)
function, in its specified and intended operational environment, when

called for, at a random point in time.
This term quantifies the degree to which an item is in an operable state at
any time. This time includes maintenance downtime caused by preventive
or scheduled maintenance as well as logistic delay times.
Mathematically, operational availability is defined as:
Operational availability =
MTBM
______________
MTBM + MDT
Where:
MTBM = Mean Time Between Maintenance
MDT = Mean Down Time
Also see availability, and inherent availability
operational delay
The delay caused by interference between components of traffic.
operate and operator (NHVR)
A person operates a vehicle or combination, and is an operator of the

vehicle or combination, if the person is responsible for controlling or
directing the use of:
a) for a vehicle (including a vehicle in a combination)the vehicle; or
b) for a combinationthe towing vehicle in the combination.
see filter turn
opposed turn
opposing movement
1.
A movement that conflicts with, and has priority over, another (opposed)
movement.
2.
A movement which approaches from the opposite direction as another on

the same road regardless of destination.
opposing right turns
Right turning movements in opposite directions, which take place during

the same signal phase.
opposing traffic
The traffic stream travelling in the opposite direction to the vehicle or

vehicles under consideration.
opposing traffic stream
see opposing movement
optical character
recognition (OCR)
A technique that optically captures the characters (e.g. on a number plate)

for vehicle identification and other applications.
optimum cycle time
The calculated fixed-time signal cycle length for a given set of approach
volumes and turning movements at an intersection for which a chosen
performance index (delay, number of stops, queue length, etc.) is
minimised.
optimum moisture content

(OMC)
That moisture content of a soil at which a specified amount of compaction

will produce the maximum dry density under specified test conditions.
optimum phasing
The phasing arrangement of traffic signals, which achieves the best

capacity at a signalised intersection.
optimum speed
The average speed at which traffic must move to attain the maximum traffic
volume on a carriageway.
origin
Point or area in which a trip starts.
Term
Definition
original equipment
manufacturers (OEM)
Those companies that are the original manufacturers of vehicles and

equipment.
origin-destination (OD)
matrix
Tabulation containing all the trips being made in a network over a given
time interval. The number of trips between a specified origin-destination
pair is one cell (element) of an O-D matrix.
origin-destination survey
The measurement and study of an aspect of traffic movement.
ORPT
see on-road public transport
orthotropic
A material having different stiffness properties in two or more directions at

right angles to each other, e.g. wood.
OSOM vehicle (NHVR)
Oversize, overmass vehicles. A heavy vehicle or combination that is

oversize and/or overmass.
see oversize vehicle and overmass vehicle
outer separator
A dividing strip separating a through carriageway from a service road or

frontage road.
outreach (of a mast-arm)
The horizontal distance from the centreline of the vertical member to the
centreline of the overhead lantern assembly.
overall time
Time taken to travel between two specified points on a route, including the
time of all stops.
overall travel speed
The total distance traversed by a vehicle divided by the total time required
including all traffic delays.
overall travel time
see journey time
overall width
Maximum distance measured across the body, including wheel guards, but
excluding equipment and hardware such as rear vision mirrors, signalling
devices and side-mounted lamps.
overburden
The soil or other mineral matter which has to be removed to gain access to
the underlying material.
over-dimensional vehicle
A vehicle precluded by legislation from using public roads due to its mass
or dimensions without following a prescribed route or obtaining a special
permit from the relevant traffic authority.
over-dimension route
Route available for use by over-dimensional vehicles.
overflow queue
The number of vehicles left in a queue at the expiry of green time for that
queue (see residual queue).
overhang (of mast-arm)
The horizontal distance from the kerb alignment to the centreline of the
overhead lantern assembly.
overhead lane control

device
An overhead lane control sign or signal.
overhead lane control sign
A traffic sign displaying a red diagonal cross that is installed on a structure

over a road or part of a road.
overhead lane control

signal
overhead signal face
1.
An illuminated red diagonal cross (whether or not flashing).
2.
An illuminated white, green or yellow arrow pointing downwards or

indicating one or more directions.
3.
A device on a structure over a road, or part of a road, designed to display

an overhead lane control signal, or two or more overhead lane control
signals.
The signal face mounted above the roadway.
Term
Definition
overlap movement
A movement that runs in consecutive phases without stopping during the

associated inter-green period(s) (see overlapping signal group).
overlapping signal group
A signal group that displays green in consecutive phases and during the
associated phase transition(s) (see overlap movement).
overlay
The addition of one or more courses of pavement material to an existing

road surface, generally to increase strength/stiffness and/or improve riding
quality.
overmass vehicle (NHVR)
A heavy vehicle or combination that does not comply with a mass

requirement applying to it (including gross mass, axle or axle group mass).
overpass
A grade separation where the subject carriageway passes over an

intersecting carriageway or railway (see grade separation and underpass).
oversize vehicle
see over-dimensional vehicle
overtaking
The manoeuvre in which a vehicle moves from a position behind to a

position in front of another vehicle travelling in the same direction.
overtaking bay
A short widening of the carriageway provided to allow very slow vehicles to

pull aside and be overtaken, usually in very steep terrain.
overtaking distance
The distance required for one vehicle to overtake another vehicle.
overtaking lane
An auxiliary lane provided for slower vehicles to allow them to be overtaken

(see climbing lane and passing lane).
overtaking zone
A section of road on which at least 70% of drivers will be prepared to carry

out overtaking manoeuvres subject to availability of adequate gaps in the
opposing direction.
oververtical curve
see summit curve
owner (NHVR)
1.
Of a vehicle means:
a) each person who is an owner, joint owner or part owner of the vehicle;
or
b) a person who has the use or control of the vehicle under a credit
agreement, hiring agreement, hire-purchase agreement or leasing
arrangement; or
2.
Of a combination means:
a) each person who is an owner, joint owner or part owner of the towing
vehicle in the combination; or
b) a person who has the use or control of the towing vehicle in the
combination under a credit agreement, hiring agreement, hire-purchase
agreement or leasing arrangement; or
3.
oxidised binder
Of a sample means an owner of the sample or the thing from which it was
taken.
A binder which has become hard and brittle as the result of chemical attack
by oxygen in the presence of heat and sunlight.
Term
Definition
pace
The 20 km/h speed range containing the largest percentage of vehicles in a

sample of spot speeds.
padfoot roller
A roller used in road construction which has pad-like protrusions from the
steel drum. Used to compact fill and subgrade layers.
painted island
An area of a road, surrounded by a line or lines (whether broken or

continuous), on which there are stripes marked on the road surface in white
or another colour contrasting with the colour of the road.
parallel flow
Travel in the same direction as the normal flow of traffic e.g. a parallel flow
bus lane would run in the same direction as other vehicular traffic.
parallel pedestrian
movement
A signalised pedestrian movement that runs at the same time as the

parallel vehicle movement(s) that are controlled by circular green displays.
parapet
A raised kerb with a profile and height sufficient to prevent vehicles leaving
the carriageway, formed at the edge of a carriageway, usually on a bridge
or similar structure.
para-transit
Describes those forms of public transport that are different from

conventional bus and rail transit, and that can operate over the road
system, including demand responsive transport services, vehicle rental and
shared-ride taxi.
parclo
see cloverleaf
park-and-ride
System in which people drive to a specified location, park there, and board
public transport for a defined destination (see kiss and ride).
park-and-ride ticket
Combined vehicle parking and public transport ticket.
parking area
A place set aside for the parking of vehicles.
parking bay
A recess or marked pavement area set back from the general flow of traffic
that can accommodate one parked vehicle. Also commonly referred to as
parking space.
parking capacity
Total number of parking spaces provided within a parking facility, also

known as static capacity.
parking control area
A network of one or more streets or an area in which uniform parking

controls apply, and which are defined by signs at the boundaries advising
road users of the parking control requirements. Also commonly referred to
as a traffic area.
parking lane
An auxiliary lane primarily for the parking of vehicles.
parking lines
Guide lines that indicate the limits within which vehicles should be parked.
parking meter
A device for registering and collecting payment for a length of time during
which a vehicle may be parked.
parking module
A parking aisle together with a single row of parking bays on one or both
sides but excluding any ramps or circulation aisles.
parking rail
see bicycle parking rail
parking space
The area of pavement required to park one vehicle. Used interchangeably

with parking bay where the space is set back from the general flow of
traffic.
parking zone
A length of roadway available for parking, full-time or part-time, and

designated by means of parking control signs.
Term
Definition
partial barrier fence
A fence provided to reduce the likelihood of access to a slope or fall which

due to the height of the fall, the existence of obstacles or grade of the
batter, could result in injury.
partial control
Control of a turning movement by a green arrow display in one phase (as

an unopposed movement) and by a green circle display in another phase
(as a filter, or opposed movement).
participating jurisdiction
1.
(NHVR)
For the Heavy Vehicle National Law, other than Chapter 6 (Driver Fatigue),
means a State or Territory in which:
a) this Law applies as a law of the State or Territory; or
b) a law that substantially corresponds to the provisions of this Law has
been enacted; or
c) a law prescribed by the national regulations for the purposes of this
subparagraph has been enacted; or
2.
For Chapter 6 (Driver Fatigue), means a State or Territory in which:

a) this Chapter applies as a law of the State or Territory; or
b) a law containing provisions that substantially correspond to the
provisions of this Chapter is in force.
particle density
Mass of a dry particle of aggregate in air divided by volume of particle of

aggregate excluding permeable voids.
particle size distribution

grading (aggregate)
The quantities of the various particle sizes present in a mineral aggregate;

expressed as a percentage by mass of the whole.
party in the chain of

responsibility (NHVR)
1.
For a heavy vehicle, each of the following persons is a party in the chain of
responsibility:
a) an employer of the vehicles driver if the driver is an employed driver;
b) a prime contractor for the vehicles driver if the driver is a self-employed
driver;
c) an operator of the vehicle;
d) a scheduler for the vehicle;
e) a loading manager for any goods in the vehicle;
f) a commercial consignor of any goods for transport by the vehicle that are
in the vehicle;
g) a consignee of any goods in the vehicle, if Division 4 applies to the
consignee.
2.
For a fatigue-regulated vehicle, each of the following persons is a party in

the chain of responsibility:
a) an employer of the vehicles driver;
b) a prime contractor for the vehicles driver;
c) an operator of the vehicle;
d) a scheduler for the vehicle;
e) a consignor of any goods for transport by the vehicle that are in the
vehicle;
f) a consignee of any goods in the vehicle;
g) a loading manager for any goods in the vehicle;
h) a loader of any goods in the vehicle;
i) an unloader of any goods in the vehicle.
Note that a person may be a party in the chain of responsibility for a heavy
vehicle, or a fatigue-related vehicle in more than 1 capacity.
Term
Definition
partly crushed aggregate
An aggregate particle containing a mixture of rounded and crushed faces.
pass (roller)
In rolling, the passage of all axles of a roller over a point.
passage detector
A detector which produces a short output (pulse) of relatively constant

duration, independent of the mass or type of a moving vehicle within the
detection zone.
passage period
The time allowed for a vehicle to travel at a selected speed from the
detector to the nearest point of conflicting traffic.
passenger car
For the purpose of general traffic engineering requirements, this term

includes sedans, taxi cabs, station wagons, but excludes motor cycles and
light commercial vehicles such as utilities and panel vans (unless otherwise
specified).
passenger car derivative
Motor vehicle such as a coupe utility or panel van of the same model as a
passenger car in which the forward part of the body and most of the
mechanical equipment are the same as the passenger car equivalent.
passenger car unit
Measure involving the conversion of different types of vehicles into their

equivalent passenger cars in terms of operating characteristics.
passenger kilometres
Performance indicator in which the number of passengers carried is

multiplied by the number of kilometres travelled (see seat kilometres).
passenger restriction
Limit on the number of passengers that a person may carry in or on a

vehicle.
passenger service
Any bus service, harbour ferry service, passenger rail service, cable car,
hovercraft, monorail, tramway, or other form of public transport (other than
air transport) that is available to the public generally.
passing bay
A short widening of the carriageway provided to allow very slow vehicles to

pull aside and be overtaken, usually in very steep terrain.
passing lane
A lane provided for the purpose of overtaking, passing or bypassing other

vehicles.
passing place
A widened length of a narrow carriageway at which vehicles can pass each

other (see climbing lane, overtaking lane).
past (traffic control)
A work area with traffic on a detour, side track or different carriageway.
patching
The filling up or repair of depressions, holes, or other defective places in a

carriageway to restore the surface.
path
Series of links defining the connection between zones in a network. Note:

In public transport networks, the path with the minimum impedance
(minimum distance, travel time or travel cost, either actual or perceived) is
found by path building programs.
path terminal
A device or treatment generally used adjacent to the intersection of paths

and roads primarily to limit the possibility of path cyclists from entering a
road unknowingly or at speed, or alternatively to prevent access by
unauthorised vehicles.
pathway
see footpath
pattern station
A site at which a traffic count has been continued for a long enough time to
establish a pattern of variations and seasonal fluctuations in traffic flow.
pavement
That portion of a road designed for the support of, and to form the running
surface for, vehicular traffic.
Term
Definition
pavement (pavement
structure)
The portion of the road, excluding shoulders, placed above the design
subgrade level for the support of, and to form a running surface for,
vehicular traffic.
pavement deflection
The vertical elastic (recoverable) deformation of a pavement surface due to

the application of a load.
pavement design
A process to select the most economic pavement thickness and

composition which will provide a satisfactory level of service for the
anticipated traffic and environmental loading.
pavement distress
The deterioration of the pavement evidenced by visible surface defects.
pavement edge line
see edge line
pavement layer
A portion of the pavement placed and compacted as an entity.
pavement management
system (PMS)
A systematic method of information collection and decision making,

necessary to permit the optimisation of the use of resources for the
maintenance and rehabilitation of pavements.
pavement marker
A discrete retroreflective device, bonded to the pavement, which is of

sufficiently small size as to be effectively a point source of light when
viewed by vehicle drivers at normal night-time viewing distances; a nonretroreflective pavement marker is applicable for daytime.
pavement markings
Any markings, raised pavement markers, traffic domes and the like placed
on the road to control traffic movement or parking.
pavement rating
A method of systematically describing the condition of a pavement usually

by visual inspection.
pavement reflector
A retroreflective device attached to the surface of the road pavement (see

retroreflective marker).
pavement rutting (rutting)
A pavement defect that is a characteristic of the transverse profile of a

pavement which takes the form of a longitudinal depression, usually
occurring in one or both wheelpaths.
pavement stiffness
The resistance to deflection of the pavement structure.
pavement strength
The ability of a pavement structure to resist the traffic vehicle wheel loads
that are applied to it. Pavement strength is often seen as synonymous with
structural capacity.
pavement width
The width between the outer shoulder edges or between the kerb faces.
paver
see paving machine
paving block
A block of material cut to regular shape and size for laying as a pavement
(ceramic block, concrete interlocking block or wood block).
paving machine
A self-propelled machine used to lay material on a pavement to close

longitudinal and transverse level tolerances. The paver screed gives initial
compaction of the material by means of vibration, vertical tamping or a
combination of both. It may be used to lay asphalt, granular materials or
concrete.
paving unit (slurry

surfacing)
A purpose-built continuous flow mixing unit capable of accurately metering

each individual component material into a mixer which thoroughly blends
these materials to form a homogeneous bituminous slurry and transfers the
slurry into a spreader box for application to the pavement surface.
PBS
see Performance Based Standards
peak hour
The hour of the day having the highest traffic volume and/or number of
passengers during the peak period.
Term
Definition
peak hour factor
Typically defined as the ratio of hourly volume to the maximum 15 minutes

rate of flow expanded to an hourly volume.
peak hour volume
The maximum traffic count observed in any 60 minute interval during a day.
In rural areas it is usually sufficient to quote a single peak hour volume. In
urban areas two peak hour volumes are often considered: one for the
morning and one for the evening. This practice is adopted because of the
likelihood of significant differences in the directional flows on urban roads at
different times of day.
peak period
The period that has the highest demand volume of traffic and/or number of
passengers during the day (peak hour, peak half hour, etc.) (see off-peak
period).
peak period bicycle lane
Carriageway lane for exclusive use of bicycles during designated peak

travel times, and that allows for motor vehicle parking in non-peak times.
peak traffic flow
The traffic volume during a time period of specified length during which
such volume is at its maximum.
pedelec
Electric bicycle as defined by European Standard EN15194. Motor of 250

watts continuous rated power activated only by pedalling (if above 6 kph)
and cuts out over 25kph.
pedestrian
A person walking, and including people in wheelchairs, on roller skates or

riding vehicles such as skate boards or other vehicles, other than a bicycle,
powered by effort or a motor and with a maximum speed of 7 km/h.
pedestrian-actuated control
pedestrian-actuated traffic
signal
A signal in which some changes of aspect are initiated by pedestrians.
pedestrian aspects
Signal aspects for pedestrians, consisting of the Walk aspect (a green

walking human figure) and the Dont Walk aspect (red standing human
figure) (see pedestrian signal face).
pedestrian clearance
period
The flashing Don't Walk period that immediately follows the termination of
the pedestrian Walk display to enable pedestrians, who have just stepped
off the kerb at the commencement of this period, to complete their crossing
to the nearest kerb or refuge. Pedestrian clearance time is the duration of
the pedestrian clearance period.
pedestrian crossing
A specially marked area giving legal rights to pedestrians crossing the road
(see zebra crossing, pelican crossing, puffin crossing, kea crossing).
pedestrian green time
The duration of the green Walk display.
pedestrian indicator
An indicator mounted on the pedestrian push button assembly that is

illuminated to acknowledge when a demand has been recorded.
pedestrian interval
An interval during which pedestrians are given right-of-way, but during

which the movement of vehicles, even in the directions conflicting with the
path of pedestrians, is not necessarily prohibited.
pedestrian island
An island in a carriageway set aside for the exclusive use of pedestrians.
pedestrian lights
A device designed to show, at different times, a green or red pedestrian

light.
pedestrian mall
A length of road within a commercial area, used solely for pedestrians and
authorised vehicles.
pedestrian phase
A phase allocated to pedestrian traffic that is running simultaneously with

the traffic phase.
Term
Definition
pedestrian precinct
An area (may include an entire road or any part thereof) dominated by

pedestrian traffic with exclusion of some or all motor vehicles during part of
the day or at all times.
pedestrian refuge
A median island, or a section of median, on wide or heavily trafficked

roads, provided as a staging area for pedestrians crossing the road.
pedestrian signal
A signal that is intended for the control of pedestrian movement across a

road.
pedestrian signal face
A two-aspect signal face for the control of pedestrian movements that

consists of green Walk and red Don't Walk aspects (see pedestrian
aspects).
peeling (delamination)
A condition whereby a seal has debonded from the underlying base and
been removed by traffic leaving the surface of the base in an unprotected
condition.
pelican crossing
A type of signalised pedestrian crossing. Pelican stands for pedestrian light

controlled.
penetration (bitumen)
The vertical distance penetrated by a standard needle entering a

bituminous material under specified conditions of load, time and
temperature. The classification of bitumen on the basis of achieved
penetration has now been superseded by classification on the basis of its
viscosity as measured under specified conditions.
penetration index (PI)
The penetration index represents a quantitative measure of the

temperature susceptibility of bitumen and is determined by calculation from
two penetration values determined at different temperatures. Alternative
equations exist that calculate PI from a combination of penetration,
softening point and viscosity measurements.
penetration test (soil)
A test carried out with a standard instrument to determine the load bearing
capacity of a soil.
penetration value
The distance in tenths of millimetres a standard needle sinks into a bitumen

sample under standard conditions.
perceived benefits
Benefits as perceived by those who received those benefits, which may

differ from actual benefits, such as in the scenic value of one road
compared to another.
perceived costs
Costs as perceived by those who outlay those costs. This especially relates
to costs of travel where most motorists underestimate their own and the
communitys costs of car usage.
percentile speed
Speed at or below which the nominated percentage (e.g. 15, 50, 85) of
vehicles are observed to travel under free flow conditions.
perception distance
The sight distance required accessing the curvature of horizontal curves on

approach.
perceptual
countermeasures (PCMs)
PCMs unobtrusively influence the visual information on display to the driver

so that they perceive that certain behaviours such as fast speed are unsafe
or inappropriate. Most treatments are low-cost and do not introduce
additional hazards on the roads and commonly involve painted lines or
additional road surfaces to provide the desired effect.
performance based
standards (PBS) (NHVR)
An alternative accreditation scheme for heavy vehicles setting minimum

performance levels for safe and efficient operation (as opposed to standard
prescriptive rules). Greater access is generally afforded for higher
performance.
Term
Definition
perimeter
The outer extremity of a local area, across which vehicles travel to enter or
exit a local area.
perimeter threshold
A coloured and/or textured pavement surface that contrasts with the

adjacent road alerting drivers they are entering a local traffic area. Also
commonly referred to as an entry statement or threshold treatment.
period permit (NHVR)
A permit issued for multiple trips on specific routes(s), for a specific

vehicle(s) within a time period stipulated in the permit (e.g. three months,
one year, three years).
periodic maintenance
Maintenance treatments conducted at fairly regular intervals of longer than

one year. For pavements, bitumen resealing, asphalt resheeting and gravel
resheeting are the most common forms of periodic maintenance. For
bridges, replacement of joint seals is one example.
permanent deformation
(road safety barrier)
The permanent deformation of a road safety barrier that remains after

impact.
permanent hazard warning
A range of signs used to indicate permanent conditions that require caution

or special action, and indicating the particular reason for such caution or
action.
permanent road safety

barrier
A road safety barrier that is installed permanently at the roadside.
permanent station
A permanent station is a counting station installed for long continuous

periods, usually many years.
permeability
The property of a material by virtue of which a fluid such as water or air can
pass through it.
permeability reversal
Occurs at a pavement layer interface when the coefficient of saturated

permeability of the upper layer is at least 100 times greater than that of the
layer below it.
permit vehicles
Encompasses all permit vehicle related definitions, including vehicles

operating above legal mass and/or dimension limits which are allocated
permits to travel subject to specified restrictions. Commonly two levels of
permit vehicles are specified: period permit vehicles, and trip permit
vehicles.
personal rapid transport

(PRT)
Fixed guideway system that provides station-to-station non-stop service in

small vehicles carrying one to six passengers, usually travelling together by
choice.
person trip
Any trip made by a person except those trips undertaken by the driver of a
commercial vehicle where the vehicle, at the time, was being used for
commercial purposes.
pervious (material)
A material through which water can pass.
phase
That part of a signal cycle during which one or more movements receive
right-of-way subject to resolution of any vehicle or pedestrian conflicts by
priority rules. A phase is identified by at least one movement gaining rightof-way at the start of it and at least one movement losing right-of-way at the
end of it.
phase overlap
A condition whereby a particular movement subject to traffic signal control

is permitted to run during two or more consecutive phases.
phase sequence
The order of phases in a signal cycle (see display sequence, signal

phasing).
Term
Definition
phase split
Duration of each phase (green time and intergreen time) within a signal
cycle. It is normally expressed as a percentage of cycle length.
phasing
see signal phasing
photogrammetry
Imaging used to model buildings, engineering structures, vehicles, forensic

and accident scenes. Typically, a camera is hand held or set on a tripod
close to the subject and a 3D model or a drawing is produced. Common
points are identified on each image and a line of sight can be constructed
from the camera location to these points on the object.
physical architecture
Hardware and software needed to enable the services to be provided. It

focuses on standardising the interfaces to enable interoperability.
Also see system architecture, reference architecture, and logical
architecture.
pier
1.
An intermediate support in a bridge having more than one span.
2.
Part of the substructure supporting the superstructure and transferring the

loads to the foundations.
pig trailer (also rigid

drawbar trailer, drawbar
trailer, pony trailer) (NHVR)
A trailer:
a) with one axle group or a single axle near the middle of its load carrying
surface; and
b) connected to the towing vehicle by a drawbar.
pile
A slender member driven, jetted, screwed, or formed in the ground to resist

loads or thrust.
pile cap
A structural member designed to connect and distribute loads from the

above structure to a group of piles.
pilot survey
Trial survey made in advance of a survey in order to test out survey

methods and questionnaire design.
pilot vehicle (NHVR)
A motor vehicle that accompanies an oversize vehicle to warn other road

users of the oversize vehicles presence.
Also see escort vehicle
pipe drain
A drain constructed with pipes or in the form of a pipe.
pit-run gravel
Material obtained from a natural deposit of gravel without crushing or

grading or addition of other material.
plain concrete pavement

(PCP)
A concrete pavement which is unreinforced.
plan (signal system)
see timing plan
planer
1.
A self-propelled machine which removes a controlled depth of pavement

material.
2.
A device for incorporating a cutter blade which is pulled or propelled along

a road to smooth the surface and improve the riding quality.
plank
A load bearing member which supports or forms part of the deck of a bridge.
planning scheme
Statutory document establishing the land-use controls for the area covered
by the planning scheme, and consisting of a planning scheme map, or
maps, and an ordinance.
plant mix (premix)
A general term for mixtures of bituminous binder and aggregate produced

in a central mixing plant.
plastic flow
Irreversible deformation due to an applied stress.
Term
Definition
plasticity index (PI)
The numerical difference between the value of the liquid limit and the value
of the plastic limit of a soil.
plastic material
A material in a condition when it can be easily remoulded.
plastomer
Polymers loosely classified as plastomers may possess some elastomeric

properties but predominantly exhibit plastic flow properties under high
strain conditions at ambient temperatures. Some examples include
polypropylene, atactic polypropylene and ethylene vinyl acetate.
plate compactor
A hand operated vibrating plate compactor.
platform
Elevated stage constructed to floor height of passenger vehicles to allow

passengers to board and alight from a vehicle.
platform time
Time spent by a public transport vehicle driver in driving or controlling the

vehicle.
platoon
A closely spaced group of vehicles or pedestrians travelling together at

substantially the same speed because of signal control, geometric
conditions or other factors.
plinth
1.
A low level barrier subjected to repeated flooding (also known as a

castellated kerb).
2.
A concrete member raised above the surrounding concrete.
plucking
The loss of aggregate with its attached binder from a seal under traffic,
caused by a separation within the binder film which lacks sufficient
cohesive strength to retain the aggregate in place.
ply rating
Term used to identify a given rubber tyre with its maximum recommended
load when used in a specific type of service. An index of the tyre strength; it
does not necessarily represent the number of cord plies in the tyre.
pneumatic-tyred roller
A static roller, the rubber tyred wheels of which are inflated with air.
pocket road train (NHVR)
A colloquial term used in some jurisdictions to describe a road train, with a

shorter overall length, primarily due to shorter trailers and drawbars
(typically less than 30 metres).
point of choice
Point at which two routes diverge. Between such points a travel time ratio
can be computed.
point of conflict
The road space desired by one vehicle or traffic movement, which is

simultaneously required by another vehicle or traffic movement.
point of impact (road safety

barrier)
The point where the vehicle first impacts a road safety barrier.
point of need
The start or end of the length of need, defining the length over which an
errant vehicle is redirected by the road safety barrier and would otherwise
strike the hazard if a road safety barrier was not provided (see length of
need).
polished aggregate friction

value (PAFV)
A measure, on a scale of 0 to 100, of the resistance of an aggregate to

polishing under the action of traffic as determined in standard laboratory
tests.
polished stone value (PSV)
A measure, similar to PAFV, but based on a British Standard.
polishing
A pavement surface defect in which the upper faces of the aggregate

become smoother and rounder, particularly in the wheel tracks, as a result
of the abrasive effect of traffic, reducing the available friction between the
road surface and a vehicle tyre.
Term
Definition
polybutadiene (PBD)
An elastomeric polymer used in the modification of bitumen.
polyethylene (PE)
A plastomeric polymer used in the modification of bitumen.
polymer
A predominantly organic substance comprising a very large number of

chemical entities. These chemical entities may comprise identical
segments (producing a homopolymer) or a combination of two or more
different segments (producing a copolymer).
polymer modified asphalt

(PMA)
An asphalt made using a polymer modified binder.
polymer modified binder

(PMB)
A binder consisting of polymeric materials dispersed in bitumen with

enhanced binder performance for particular applications.
polymer modified emulsion
An emulsion manufactured using a polymer modified binder.
poorly graded (gap graded)
A soil material deficient in some size fraction, not well graded.
porosity (aggregate)
The ratio of the volume of voids in an aggregate sample to the total volume
of the sample.
portable pendulum tester
A portable dynamic pendulum that measures the energy absorbed by a

rubber pad as its edge slides over a test surface. Also known as a portable
skid resistance tester or British pendulum tester.
portable texture meter
A portable laser based device capable of measuring pavement surface

macrotexture.
Portland cement
An artificial cement manufactured from Portland cement clinker. Usually

referred to as cement.
Portland cement clinker
Portland cement clinker is the partially fused product resulting from the
intimate mixing of calcareous and argillaceous or other silica, alumina, or
iron-bearing materials, or any combination of these materials, and burning
them at a clinkering temperature.
Portland cement concrete
Concrete in which the binding material is Portland cement. Usually referred

to as concrete.
post
Vertical tubular support for traffic signal lanterns and associated signs.
postcard survey
Survey in which questionnaire cards are handed out or sent to respondents

for return by post.
post-impact speed
The speed of a vehicle following impact.
post-mounted delineators
Devices which mark out curves and delineate the edge of roads in rural
areas.
post-tensioning
A method of prestressing in which tendons are tensioned after the concrete

has hardened.
potential traffic
The total traffic that would move between two terminals assuming ideal
travelling conditions.
pothole
A hole in a pavement, frequently rounded in shape, resulting from the loss

of pavement material under traffic.
pozzolan
A siliceous or alumino siliceous material which in itself possesses little or

no cementitious value but which in finely divided form may be mixed with
lime or Portland cement to form a cementitious material.
PPP
see public private partnership form of project/contract delivery
preboring
A technique to save pile driving time whereby a hole is bored prior to

pitching of a pile.
Term
Definition
precoating
The coating of an aggregate with an oil, water or bituminous based

material, with or without an adhesion agent, to wet the dust and improve
the subsequent adhesion of bituminous material.
predictive maintenance
A maintenance strategy based on measuring the condition of equipment in

order to assess whether it will fail during a given future period. Then
planning or taking appropriate action to avoid the consequences of that
failure before it occurs.
Preventative Maintenance Time (MPMT), Mean Time Between
Maintenance (MTBM), Preventative Maintenance, Proactive Maintenance,
Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM), Scheduled Maintenance and
Servicing.
(RMS ITS)
pre-emption of signals
A system whereby specific vehicles e.g. buses are given preference at

traffic signals.
pre-impact speed
The speed of a vehicle before an impact.
preliminary engineering
Work of locating and designing, making surveys and maps, preparing

specifications and estimates, and doing other engineering work before
letting a contract for construction of a transport project.
Prem method
Validation of a roughness profiler, known as the profiler gain validation.

This technique aimed to overcome the shortcomings of a least squares
regression by assessing how a profiler amplifies, or attenuates, specific
wavelengths in a road profile across all International Roughness Index (IRI)
wavebands, especially in those of greatest sensitivity. By focusing on the
spectral content of the longitudinal profile, the technique can determine
whether or not the correct IRI is being reported because the profiler
amplifies one particular wavelength and attenuates another.
premix
A mixture of cutback and/or fluxed bitumen and aggregate, usually stored

in a stockpile and used for patching.
prequalification
Procurement method establishing skills and experience ratings prior to

opening a tender.
presence detector
A detector capable of indicating the presence of a stationary or moving

vehicle.
present serviceability index

(PSI)
An estimate of present serviceability rating based on measurements of the

conditions of the pavement surface. Such measurements may be profile
roughness, the extent of cracking, patching and rutting. PSI is measured on
a similar scale to PSR.
present serviceability rating

(PSR)
The mean opinion of the members of a rating panel of the adequacy of a

particular section of road pavement to serve traffic at a standard speed
associated with the road's function. The panel is required to rate the
pavement on an arbitrary but defined scale.
present value (PV)
The discounted value at the present day of a future cost or benefit.
pressure ageing vessel

(PAV) test
An accelerated procedure for bituminous binders using a pressure ageing

vessel (PAV) which elevates temperatures under pressurised conditions.
prestressed concrete
Concrete in which prior to complete loading, effective internal compressive

stresses are induced deliberately, usually by means of tensioned steel, to
reduce or eliminate tensile stresses when loaded.
pretensioning
A method of prestressing in which tendons are tensioned before the

concrete is placed (e.g. Super T girders, deck units).
Term
Definition
preventative maintenance
A maintenance activity before or at an early stage in the development of

one or more defects, aimed at preventing occurrence or progression of the
defect(s), usually undertaken on a proactive rather than reactive basis.
Maintenance (MTBM), Predictive Maintenance, Proactive Maintenance,
Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM), Scheduled Maintenance and
Servicing.
(RMS ITS)
primary failure (RMS ITS)
A failure not caused either directly or indirectly by another failure.

Also see dangerous failure, failure, failure mode, failure rate, random
systematic failure.
primary/active safety
Countermeasures aimed at avoiding a crash e.g. ABS.
primary signal
A traffic signal that is located at (or near) the stop line and on the left-hand
side of the approach (see secondary signal and tertiary signal).
primary signal face
The signal face mounted on a post at or near the left of the stop line of the
approach (see dual primary signal face, secondary signal face and tertiary
signal face).
prime (prime coat)
An application of a primer to a prepared base, without cover aggregate, to

provide penetration of the surface, temporary waterproofing and to obtain a
bond between the pavement and the subsequent seal or asphalt. It is a
preliminary treatment to a more permanent bituminous surfacing.
prime mover
A rigid motor vehicle equipped with a fifth wheel assembly or turntable

designed to haul a semi-trailer.
primer
A bituminous material of low viscosity and low surface tension used in

priming.
primer binder
A material more viscous than a primer and required to act both as a primer
and binder, and used in primer sealing.
primerseal
An application of a primer binder with a fine cover aggregate to a prepared

base to provide penetration of the surface and retain a light cover of
aggregate. It is used as a preliminary treatment to a more permanent
bituminous surfacing. It is intended to carry traffic for a longer period than a
prime.
priority mode
In a multimodal journey, a single mode can be assigned to that journey by

ranking all possible modes and using the mode of highest ranking.
priority road
A road on which traffic takes precedence over all entering or crossing traffic
at all unsignalised intersections.
priority rule
A traffic regulation which assigns priority to one stream of traffic (see filter
turn and opposing movement).
priority traffic
That traffic which is allocated priority service at an intersection by the

operation of signals. It may include emergency vehicles or public transport
vehicles. Not to be confused with the term priority road for unsignalised
intersections (a road on which traffic has right-of-way over all entering or
crossing traffic).
proactive maintenance (RMS
Refers to any maintenance tasks used to predict or prevent equipment failures.

Preventative Maintenance Time (MPMT), Mean Time Between Maintenance
(MTBM), Predictive Maintenance, Preventative Maintenance, Reliability
Centred Maintenance (RCM), Scheduled Maintenance and Servicing.
ITS)
Term
Definition
probabilistic assignment
Multipath assignment method, which assigns trips to one or more reasonable

paths through the network on the basis of their relative probability of use.
probationary licence
Restricted licence which is the first licence issued to drivers after they pass
their initial driving test. There may be multiple stages of gradually
decreasing restrictions for a probationary/provisional licence in a graduated
licensing system.
Also see restricted licence and graduated (driver) licensing system.
process oil
A petroleum derived oil produced for purposes other than lubrication, e.g.
tyre rubber compounding.
profile
1.
The shape of a pavement surface measured in a vertical plane, from a

datum, parallel to the traffic flow.
2.
A construction aid erected to assist in establishing a batter slope.
profile edge lines
see audio-tactile paving
profile index
The total of vertical deviations greater than 2.5 mm from the average
profile.
profiler (cold planer,

planer)
A self-propelled machine which removes a controlled depth of pavement

material.
profilometer
A device for producing a series of numbers related, in a well-defined way,

to a true profile. Roughness measuring devices, other than mechanical
response-type devices and most static devices, are commonly referred to
as profilometers.
progression
Progression is a time-relationship, between adjacent traffic signals, which

allows vehicle platoons to be given a green signal as they pass through the
sequence of intersections.
progressive control
The operation of a coordinated traffic signal system to provide, as far as

practicable, for the uninterrupted movement of vehicles through successive
signals.
project
A set of activities intended to produce a specific output, which has a

definite beginning and end. The activities are interrelated and must be
brought together in a particular order, based on precedence relationships
between the different activities.
project board
The administrative body constituted for the direction of a project.
project brief (handover

brief)
A specific purpose document outlining what is to occur throughout the

course of a project.
project business case
A reasoned argument based on sound engineering and economic

principles upon which the viability of a project is assessed.
project business plan
A document setting out the project business objectives including funding

source, practices, resources and sequence of activities relevant to the
delivery of a particular project. The plan should quantify as many of the
objectives as possible and provide budget cash flows. It should also outline
the strategy and tactics intended to be used in achieving the objectives.
project commissioning
The stage at which the project is ready for use e.g. open to traffic.
project delivery
The process by which the aim or goal of a project is realised or achieved.
projection
Effectively a narrowing of the road carriageway by an adjustment in the

kerb line generally over a short distance, that may be either raised (kerbed)
or constructed of pavement bars and markings, and may consist of an
island or continuous kerbing.
Term
Definition
project level
A type of road condition survey or data analysis where the main purpose is
to assist with decisions about proposals for a specific project on a short
length of road, as distinct from network decisions.
project plan
The document setting out the planned sequence of activities required in

order to achieve successful project delivery outcomes. Includes the
combined documented procedures adopted in planning, organising,
execution and control of the project delivery process. This is subject to
review and revision as necessary during the progress of the project.
project sponsor
The organisation or individual that promotes or supports the enablement of

a project from concept to completion.
property line
The boundary between a road reserve and the adjacent land.
protected bicycle lane
see separated bicycle lane
proud
A part or portion of an aggregate particle projecting above another or above

its surroundings.
provisional licence
see probationary licence
PTIPS
see public transport information and priority system
public private partnership

form of project/contract
delivery (PPP)
The use of private sector capital to fund an asset - that may not be
ultimately owned by the public sector - which is used to deliver outcomes
for government. PPPs are used most frequently for major asset and
infrastructure procurements.
public road
A public place provided for the use of the public for traffic movement, and
which has been declared, or proclaimed, notified or dedicated.
public safety (NHVR)
The safety of persons or property, including the safety of:

a) the drivers of, and passengers and other persons in, vehicles and
combinations; and
b) persons or property in or in the vicinity of, or likely to be in or in the
vicinity of, road infrastructure and public places; and
c) vehicles and combinations and any loads in them.
public transport
Service by bus, rail, taxi or other means, which provides transport to the
public on a regular basis for payment of a prescribed fare.
public transport capacity
Maximum number of passengers which a vehicle is designed to

accommodate according to specified loading conditions. These may be
exceeded on trains under crush load conditions.
public transport information

and priority system
(PTIPS)
Priority is given to buses or trams at traffic signals by altering the

sequencing and timing of the signals. Global positioning systems and radio
data communications deliver information about the public transport vehicle
and their location. This information is used to forecast the arrival time at
traffic signals ahead.
public transport network
System of lines and links showing rail, bus and ferry routes, used for modelling
purposes. It includes route maps, service frequency, travel distance, travel time
and speeds. The computer model represents all these factors.
public transport nodes
Locations on major public transport routes where feeder services, such as

trams, buses or taxis form a focus, or where major routes intersect with
cross-town tram or bus routes, with the aim of providing efficient transfer
between all forms of transport and have car and bicycle parking (see
interchanging and modal interchange).
Term
Definition
puffin crossing
A type of signalised pedestrian crossing utilising sensors to detect waiting

and crossing pedestrians. 'Puffin stands for Pedestrian User Friendly
Intelligent Signals.
pug
A very wet clay or mud.
pugmill
A device for mixing aggregates and binder into a homogenous mixture.
pumping
The ejection by traffic action, or ground water pressure, of water and fine
particles in suspension through joints or cracks in a pavement.
purpose of travel
Reason why a journey is undertaken. In transport planning these reasons

are usually grouped into general purpose categories within the two sets of
home based and non-home based.
quad axle group (NHVR)
A group of four axles in which the horizontal distance between the

centrelines of the outermost axles is more than 3.2 m but not more than 4.9
m.
quality assurance (QA)
The systematic action necessary to give confidence of satisfactory quality.

An element of QA is quality control.
quality control (QC)
Those tests necessary to determine and control the quality of the product
being produced.
quarry
An open-surface working, excavation, etc. from which rock is obtained.
quarry dust
The product of a crushing or screening plant mainly passing a 2.36 mm

sieve. Also known as crusher dust.
quarry face
The vertical, or near vertical, working surface of a quarry, rock excavation,

gravel pit or tip site.
quarry fines
Crushed material which substantially passes a 4.75 mm sieve.
quarry waste
Reject material from a crushing and/or screening plant containing a wide

range of sizes.
quartering
The reduction in quantity of a large sample of material by intimately mixing

the material together, then dividing the heap into four approximately equal
parts by diameters at right angles, removing two diagonally opposite
quarters and mixing the two remaining quarters intimately together, so as to
obtain a truly representative half of the original mass. The process is
repeated until a sample of the required size is obtained.
queue
A line of vehicles or pedestrians waiting to proceed through an intersection.

Slowly moving vehicles or pedestrians joining the back of the queue are
usually considered part of the queue. The internal queue dynamics can
involve starts and stops. A faster-moving line of vehicles is often referred to
as a moving queue or a platoon.
queuing
The forming of a line of delayed vehicles.
queuing area
The area of a circulation roadway between the property boundary and the
vehicle control point, available for the queuing of vehicles.
quicklime
Calcium oxide (CaO). It is used in lime stabilisation of clayey materials. It

needs to be slaked by the addition of water.
quick-set quick-traffic
system
A bitumen emulsion based slurry system (usually cationic) that allows early
opening of the slurry surfacing to traffic; normally less than 1 hour after
placement.
Term
Definition
radial road
A road or highway radiating from the centre of an urban area.
raised intersection platform
A raised flat section of roadway extending across the apron of an

intersection ramped up from the normal level of the street.
raised pavement marker
A device used to supplement or replace traffic lines on the road surface. It

may be retroreflective (see raised reflective pavement markers).
raised reflective pavement

markers (RRPMs)
A white or coloured retroreflective device attached to the surface of the

road pavement.
raised table
A mid-block raised flat section of roadway ramped up from the normal level
of the street used to reduce vehicle speeds and discourage through traffic
use. Also commonly referred to as a flat-top road hump, raised platform,
plateau or speed table. The gradient of the ramps plays an important role in
the speed effectiveness of the treatment. This type of treatment has been
used as an alternative to road humps on bus routes. Longer tables are also
used and are sometimes referred to as raised pavements.
ramp
1.
A circulation roadway that connects an access driveway to an off-street car

park on a substantially different level or that connects two levels in a multilevel car park.
2.
Carriageway within an interchange providing for travel between two arms

(legs) of the intersecting roads.
3.
Traffic assignment: a link between a freeway node and an arterial node.
ramp metering
The control of traffic entering a freeway by means of traffic signals on the

entry ramps.
ramp terminal
The point on an interchange ramp at which it intersects with a surface road

or street.
random breath testing
Capacity for police to randomly pull drivers over without the need to give a
reason and perform a breath test to determine whether the driver has a
blood alcohol content (BAC) higher than the accepted legal limit for their
licence category. Persons who blow a high BAC are required to submit a
blood sample for confirmation of their BAC as this is legally required for
prosecution. However, a person who refuses to submit to a blood test after
being found to have a high BAC may still be charged with refusing to
submit to a blood test. Penalties differ between jurisdictions.
random failure (RMS ITS)
A failure whose occurrence is predictable only in a probabilistic or statistical

sense.
Also see dangerous failure, failure, failure mode, failure rate, primary
systematic failure.
RAPID
see real-time advanced priority and information delivery
rapid setting bitumen

emulsion (breaking)
An emulsion characterised by rapid breaking and suitable for sealing and

tack coat applications but normally unsuitable for mixing with aggregate or
stabilising materials.
rate
Number of accidents per unit of exposure. For example number of

accidents per million vehicle kilometres travelled.
rate of rotation
The rate of rotation required achieving a suitable distance to uniformly

rotate the crossfall from normal to full superelevation. The usual value
adopted is 0.025 rad/sec; 0.035 rad/sec is the maximum value.
Term
Definition
rating (bridge)
The process of evaluating the load carrying capacity of a bridge, accounting

for its current condition and material properties. The rating process is part of
the considerations of the appropriateness of rehabilitation and strengthening.
ravelling
A pavement surface defect involving progressive disintegration of the

pavement surface through loss of both binder and aggregates.
reaction distance
The distance travelled during the reaction time.
reaction time
The time between the drivers reception of stimulus and taking appropriate
action.
re-alignment
An alteration to the control line of a road that may affect only its vertical
alignment but, more usually, alters its horizontal alignment. A method of
widening a road reservation.
real-time advanced priority

and information delivery
(RAPID)
A bus priority and passenger information system developed by Brisbane

City Council. RAPID uses detector loops in the road and transponders on
buses to track the location of buses. This data collected is used to predict
arrival times at all busway stations and selected stops on the suburban
network. The arrival time information is displayed on realtime passenger
information signs at these stops.
rear overhang
rear overhang line (NHVR)
1.
The distance between the rear of the vehicle and the rear overhang line of
the vehicle. (NHVR)
2.
The distance between the centreline of the rear axle of a vehicle and the
rear extremity of the bodywork.
1.
For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising only one axle, a
(vertical) line running along the centre-line of the axle.
2.
For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising two axles, one of
which is fitted with twice the number of tyres as the other, the rear
overhang line is a line running parallel to the axles that is:
a) closer to the axle carrying the greater number of tyres than it is to the
other axle; and
b) located at one-third of the distance between the two axles.
3.
For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear that is not an axle group
mentioned in (1) or (2), the rear overhang line is a line running parallel to
the axles down the centre of the axle group.
4.
For the purposes of applying subsection (1), (2) or (3) to a vehicle, if an

axle group includes at least one steerable axle, that axle is to be
disregarded unless:
a) the group comprises only one axle and that axle is a steerable axle; or
b) all the axles in the group are steerable axles
rearward amplification
The degree to which the trailing unit(s) amplify or exaggerate lateral

motions of the hauling unit.
reassurance sign
A sign erected beyond an intersection or beyond the limits of urban areas

to reassure drivers or riders that they are travelling towards their intended
destination, and to indicate distances thereto.
recall feature
A feature of traffic signal controllers whereby a demand is placed for a

particular phase when no other demands are present and all approach
timers have expired (see arterial demand).
recidivist
Person who repeatedly commits offences.
recirculation
The pumping of binder from a tank through a pipe system and back to the
tank.
Term
Definition
reclaimed asphalt
pavement (RAP)
The material reclaimed from an asphalt pavement by various means

including cold-milling, grader, backhoe, jackpick or other methods.
recording traffic counter
A traffic counter that continuously records on a suitable medium the traffic

count at the expiry of each of a series of specified periods of time.
recovery time
Time allowed in a timetable, in addition to the normal running time, for the
purpose of recovery from delays. Inserted prior to critical path locations or
at end of journey.
recycling (pavement)
The re-use of paving material.
red arrow drop out
A form of partial control that uses three-aspect (red, yellow, green) right
turn arrows on a six-aspect signal face and extinguishes the red arrow for
the adjacent green circle display to permit filter turns after a few seconds in
the through phase.
redirective crash cushion
A crash cushion designed to contain and redirect an impacting vehicle.
red time
Duration of the red signal display for a phase or a movement (see effective
green and red times).
redundancy (RMS ITS)
The existence of more than one means for accomplishing a given function
within a system. Each means of accomplishment of the function need not
necessarily be identical.
referee sample
That portion of a bulk sample reserved for additional testing.
reference architecture
Planning that focuses on the users and user services, providing a big
picture of current and future services and the facilities and the functional
linkages between them.
Also see system architecture, logical architecture and physical architecture.
reference vehicle
A vehicle selected to be used as a reference for evaluating the load effects

of a bridge. The reference vehicle creates a baseline for comparison with
application vehicles.
reflection cracking
Surface cracking resulting from movement associated with cracks or joints

in an underlying pavement layer.
reflective sheeting
Retroreflective sheet material usually consisting of minute glass beads

enclosed in a thin transparent smooth surface plastic matrix, tinted
according to the required colour.
reflector button
A small retroreflective device used on traffic signs or markers for the

guidance of night time traffic.
reflectorisation
The application of a retroreflective coating or reflector buttons, to a surface

or object to improve its visibility at night.
refuge area
An area of carriageway set aside for the exclusive use of pedestrians or

stationary vehicles.
regional growth model
Land-use model used to estimate and distribute growth in population,

employment, etc.
registered operator (NHVR)
Of a heavy vehicle, means the person recorded on the vehicle register as

the person responsible for the vehicle.
regression test (RMS ITS)
The selective retesting of a component or software system that has been

modified to ensure that any bugs have been fixed and that no other
previously working functions have failed as a result of the change.
regulating course
(corrective course)
An asphalt course of varying thickness applied to a pavement surface to

adjust its shape preparatory to overlaying with another course.
Term
Definition
Regulator (NHVR)
see National Heavy Vehicle Regulator
regulatory impact
statement (RIS)
A document prepared by the department, agency, statutory authority or

board responsible for a regulatory proposal following consultation with
affected parties, formalising and evidencing some of the steps that must be
taken in good policy formulation. It requires an assessment of the costs and
benefits of each option, followed by a recommendation supporting the most
effective and efficient option. It must be incorporated into the assessment
process used by all areas of government responsible for reviewing and
reforming regulations.
regulatory sign
A sign indicating an obligation to comply with an instruction given under

order, regulation, Act, ordinance or by-law. There are two types of
regulatory signs: 1. prohibitory signs that restrict or prohibit certain actions;
2. mandatory signs that require certain actions.
regulatory traffic control

device
A sign, signal, marking, or installation indicating an obligation to comply

with a legally enforceable instruction.
rehabilitation (bridge)
The actions necessary to restore a bridge to its originally intended level of

service in order to retain it in service for as long as possible. It is
characterised by major repairs which are remedial in nature, are costly and
less frequent than those undertaken for maintenance.
rehabilitation (pavement)
Major surfacing action for the purpose of returning the structural condition
of the pavement to its as-constructed or design condition (i.e. recurring or
maintenance), or to exceed the as-constructed condition (i.e. capital or
construction).
reinforced concrete
Concrete strengthened within its mass by steel bars, or mesh or steel

fibres.
reinforced soil wall (RSW)
A method of constructing retaining walls in which fill is retained by vertical

steel or concrete units anchored by friction into the fill by means of
galvanised steel strips.
reinforcement
Bars, or mesh, usually of steel, embedded in concrete, masonry, or

brickwork, for the purpose of resisting particular stresses, e.g. tensile,
temperature related, etc.
rejects secondary
scalpings
The portion of material in a screening plant which passes through a small

screen after the primary crushing.
rejuvenating (recycling)
agent (asphalt)
A light petroleum product, usually containing maltenes, added to reclaimed

asphalt pavement material to restore proper viscosity and plasticity to the
bitumen.
rejuvenation
A light application of an emulsified bituminous material to replace part of

the lost maltene fraction in oxidised bitumen.
rejuvenator (sprayed seal)
A liquid product in which a substantial amount of light petroleum product is

suspended in water, or vice versa. This is applied in the form of a spray to
asphalt or bituminous sealed pavement surfacings to restore the properties
of the bituminous binder.
relative compaction
(compaction ratio, relative
density)
relative speed
1.
The ratio between the field bulk density and the bulk density of the
nominated mix when compacted in the laboratory.
2.
The ratio between the field bulk density and the maximum density of the
nominated mix.
3.
The ratio between the field bulk density and the maximum theoretical
density of the nominated mix.
The vector sum of the speed of two vehicles.
Term
Definition
reliability (RMS ITS)
The probability that an item of equipment will perform its intended mission
without failing, assuming that the item is used within the conditions for
which it was designed.
Reliability Centred
Maintenance (RCM) (RMS
A disciplined logic or methodology used to implement predictive and

proactive maintenance based on fault/condition data and identify preventive
and corrective maintenance tasks to realise the inherent availability of
equipment at a minimum expenditure of resources.
Maintenance (MTBM), Predictive Maintenance, Preventative Maintenance,
Proactive Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance and Servicing.
ITS)
remaining life (remaining

service life)
The period, under current or stated use (e.g. traffic volume, type and
growth), during which the asset condition is expected to remain within
stated limits, provided that appropriate routine and preventive (periodic)
maintenance are carried out.
remaining operational life
The lesser of the remaining service life and the remaining requisite, or
functional, life.
Also see End of Life, operating life, remaining requisite life, remaining
service life, service life and useful life.
remaining operational
traffic
The lesser of the remaining service traffic and the remaining requisite
traffic.
remaining requisite life
The number of years from a given date to a predetermined date at which

the pavement will be improved or replaced, regardless of its condition,
because it has reached its road configuration threshold.
Also see End of Life, operating life, remaining operational life, remaining
service life, service life and useful life.
remaining requisite traffic
The cumulative traffic loading, expressed in equivalent standard axles

(ESAs), from a given date to a predetermined date at which the pavement
will be improved or replaced, regardless of its condition, because it has
reached its road configuration threshold.
remaining service life
The shortest number of years from a given date to a predetermined

threshold value of a range of distresses beyond which the pavement no
longer meets its designated level of service.
requisite life, service life and useful life.
remaining service traffic

(ESAs), from a given date to a predetermined threshold value of a range of
distresses beyond which the pavement no longer meets its designated
level of service.
remix
A hot in-place recycling method in which add-mix is added to the heated

and scarified pavement layer.
remix plus
As for remix, with an additional wearing course layer being placed in the
one operation before compacting both layers.
repair action (RMS ITS)
Any activity which returns the capability of an asset that has failed to an
acceptable level of performance.
repair time (RMS ITS)
The amount of time required to return an asset from an unserviceable to an

operable state.
Term
Definition
repave
A hot in-place recycling method in which a second, usually thin, layer of

new asphalt (wearing course) is placed over the recycled mix before
compacting both layers.
repeatability
A statistical term to indicate the extent of variation in outputs about the

mean for a single operator using the same method. Repeatability is the
standard deviation of measures obtained in repeat tests using the same
measuring device and operator on a single, randomly selected road.
repeat right-turn phasing
Phasing that introduces the arrow-controlled right turn twice in the same
cycle.
repetitive fault (RMS ITS)
A certain fault that persists or reoccurs after rectification of the same fault.
Also see fault, critical fault and intermittent fault.
replacement (RMS ITS)
The complete replacement of an asset so as to provide a similar or agreed

alternative level of service.
Or alternatively: the exchange of an unserviceable Line Replaceable Unit
(LRU) with a serviceable one.
replacement cost
A form of asset valuation where the asset value is determined by

calculating the current cost of the most appropriate modern asset with
equivalent service potential.
reporting interval
The length in which at least 20 contiguous test points will be collected using
a deflectograph. Reporting length could also be based on homogeneous
sections of testing, etc.
reproducibility
A statistical term to indicate the extent of variation in outputs about the

mean for multiple operators or measuring devices using the same method.
reproduction cost
A form of asset valuation where the asset value is determined by

calculating the current cost of constructing or acquiring a copy of the
existing asset.
requisite life
The number of years from the immediate post-construction or rehabilitation,

restoration or replacement condition to a predetermined date at which the
pavement will be improved or replaced, regardless of its condition, because
it has reached its road configuration threshold.
requisite traffic

(ESAs), from the immediate post construction or rehabilitation/replacement
condition to a predetermined date at which the pavement will be improved
or replaced, regardless of its condition, because it has reached its road
configuration threshold.
reseal
A sprayed seal applied to a surface which has an existing seal.
reserve width
see right-of-way width
reshape
A hot in-place recycling method for reprofiling the pavement, and which
involves no addition of new material.
resheet
To recondition a pavement, by adding a new layer of material.
residential area
Land largely occupied for residential purposes but which includes small
shopping centres and ancillary facilities and primary schools.
residential property
A property having more than three residences (see domestic property).
residential street
A road, the main function of which is to provide access to residential properties.
residual binder
A binder that remains in service after any volatiles have evaporated.
residual bitumen
Bituminous material obtained by processing the residue from the refining of

naturally occurring crude petroleum.
Term
Definition
residual median
The remnant area of the median adjacent to right-turn lanes.
residual queue
The number of vehicles left in a queue at the expiry of a signal phase.
residual value
A term used in economic analysis for the value of an asset at the end of the
evaluation period.
resilient modulus (elastic

stiffness)
The ratio of stress to recoverable strain under repeated loading conditions.
resource costs
Costs as represented in terms of actual consumption of human or natural

resources, which often differ from perceived costs and likewise may differ
from financial costs. Note: Financial costs include import duties, tolls and
other transfer payments which do not reflect consumption of resources.
response time (RMS ITS)
The time taken from the receipt of a fault notification to the commencement
of fault diagnosis. This includes mobilisation of support services and
resources.
responsible person (NHVR)
For a heavy vehicles means a person having, at a relevant time, a role or

responsibilities associated with road transport using the vehicle (including
the operator).
rest area
An area of land adjacent to the road provided for the parking of vehicles
and for the occupants to rest.
restricted access vehicle

(RAV) (NHVR)
1.
RAV is an umbrella term for Class 1, 2 and 3 vehicles and those operating
at HML. RAVs operate under a notice or permit issued by or on behalf of
the Regulator. Examples are B-doubles, road trains, cranes, low loaders,
etc.
2.
A vehicle that is not a general access vehicle.
restricted licence
A restricted driver licence enables a motorist to continue to drive with

certain conditions attached to their licence when they would not otherwise
be entitled to drive.
resurfacing
To improve a pavement surface by the addition of a new wearing course.
retaining wall
A wall constructed to resist lateral pressure from the adjoining ground or to

maintain in position a mass of earth.
retarder
An admixture which reduces the rate of hardening of cement, thus

increasing the time during which concrete may be worked.
retroreflection
Reflection in which light is returned close to the direction from which it

came, this property being maintained over wide variations of the direction
of the incident light.
retroreflective
A device or material capable of reflecting incident light in the direction close

to that from which it came.
retroreflective marker
A device that produces an effective point source of light at normal highway

viewing distances by reflecting incident light in directions close to the
direction from which it came.
retroreflector
A device that reflects incident light in directions close to the direction from
which it came.
revaluation
A fresh valuation, as distinct from an indexed version of an earlier

valuation.
Term
reverse commuting
Definition
1.
Process of travelling in a direction opposite to the direction of peak traffic. An

example is travelling from a residence in the city to a place of employment in
the suburbs. Referred to as reverse because it is the opposite of the usual
pattern of travel from a suburban residence to a job in the city.
2.
Quantity of demand in a direction opposite to the direction of peak traffic.
reverse curve
A section of road alignment consisting of two curves turning in opposite

directions and having a common tangent point or being joined by a short
length of tangent.
reverse loading
Quantity of demand in a direction opposite from the direction of peak traffic.
reversible lane
A lane or carriageway assigned for the use of traffic in one direction at

certain times, and in the opposite direction at other times (see tidal flow).
revetment
A facing of stone or other material laid on a sloping face of earth to

maintain the slope in position or to protect it from erosion.
reviewable decision (NHVR)
A decision made by the Regulator, an authorised officer, or road manager

that may be reviewed. Only decisions made by a road manager (for a road)
that is a public authority are reviewable.
Schedule 3 - Reviewable decisions of the Heavy Vehicle National Law
outlines reviewable decisions made by the Regulator, authorised officers,
and road managers.
rheology
The study of deformation and flow of fluids and solids.
ribbon development
Commercial centres that have developed, usually along a major road, and
which present a continuous shopping and business frontage having greater
vehicular and pedestrian activity than land away from the road.
ride quality (driver comfort)
The level of vibration that a vehicle's driver is exposed to. It can lead to
reduced comfort and decreased proficiency, and contributes to fatigue.
ride-sharing
see car-pooling
right-left staggered
intersection
see right-left staggered junction
right-left staggered junction
A junction in which a driver turns to the right on entering the intersecting

carriageway and then left in order to continue the route. Note: This is the
preferred configuration to a left-right staggered junction.
right-of-way width
Amount of land reserved or used for transport purposes.
right turn
A turn to the right at an intersection.
right-turn lane
Right-turn lanes are used to provide space for the deceleration and storage
of turning vehicles. They may be used to improve safety and/or operations
at intersections and at median openings.
right-turn trap
A situation where a driver executing a filter right-turn manoeuvre at the start

of the yellow interval thinks that the signals change to yellow for the opposing
traffic at the same time, and therefore proceeds and runs into an opposing
through vehicle for which the signal display would still be green. Also known
as lagging right-turn problem or yellow trap (see lagging right turn).
rigid pavement
A pavement composed of concrete or having a concrete basecourse.
rigid road safety barrier

system
A road safety barrier where there is no observable dynamic deflection during

a vehicle impact. The deformation is contained within the impacting vehicle.
rigid trucks
Motor vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes GVM, constructed with a load carrying
area. This includes normal rigid trucks with a tow bar, draw bar or other
non-articulated coupling on the rear of the vehicle.
Term
ring road
Definition
1.
A road that goes around, rather than through, an urban area.
2.
A road or highway, roughly circumferential, about the centre of an urban

area and permitting traffic to avoid the centre of such area.
ripped rock
Aggregate (usually gravel) obtained from local sources. The tines of

earthmoving equipment are used to 'rip' into soft rock and break it up.
riprap
Medium to large size rock protection, against scour, applied (usually by

dumping) to the face of an embankment.
risk
The potential realisation of the unwanted or adverse consequences of an

event from which there is no prospect of gain.
risk acceptance
An informed and formal decision to accept the consequences and the

likelihood of a particular risk.
risk analysis
A systematic use of available information to determine how often specified

events might occur and the magnitude of their consequences.
risk assessment
The processes of reaching a decision or recommendation on whether risks

are tolerable and present risk control measures are adequate, and if not,
whether alternative risk control measures are justified or will be
implemented.
risk benchmarking
Comparing risks to a measured risk benchmark for the activity being

considered. Risks above the benchmark are tolerable only if risk reduction
is impracticable or if its cost is grossly disproportionate (depending on the
level of risk) to the improvement gained.
risk homeostasis
Theory that suggests that individuals subconsciously have a level of risk

that they are prepared to accept and they adjust their risk-taking behaviour
towards that level of perceived risk. When safety measures are imposed
they may relax their cautious behaviour because they perceive that the risk
has been ameliorated.
risk management
The process of planning, organising, directing and controlling the resources

and activities of an organisation in order to minimise the adverse effects of
accidental loss to that organisation at least possible cost.
risk mitigation
A selective application of appropriate techniques and management principles

to reduce either likelihood of an occurrence or its consequences, or both.
risk rating
An estimate of risk assigned to an individual site or activity.
risk taking
Risk taking has been described as 'testing boundaries'. It is the act of

deliberately placing oneself in the path of potential harm. Some people report
experiencing a 'buzz' or rush of adrenalin when they take risks and some
people are more prone to risk taking than others. In road safety, risk taking
has been studied extensively, particularly with regards to reducing the overrepresentation of young and usually male drivers in crash statistics.
road
road authorities
1.
For the purposes of the Heavy Vehicle National Law, a road is an area that
is open to or used by the public and is developed for, or has as one of its
uses, the driving or riding of motor vehicles. (NHVR)
2.
A route trafficable by motor vehicles; in law, the public right-of-way between

boundaries of adjoining property.
1.
The road authority for a participating jurisdiction means an entity that is

declared by a law of that jurisdiction to be the road authority for that
jurisdiction for the purposes of the Heavy Vehicle National Law. (NHVR)
2.
National or state road agency, municipality, other body or individual

responsible for the care, control and maintenance of road infrastructure.
Term
roadbase (base)
Definition
1.
Unbound pavement material intended for use as base.
2.
The layer underlying the surface which supports and distributes loads due
to traffic, etc.
road capacity
road classification
Maximum number of vehicles or pedestrians that can pass over a given

section of a lane, road or footpath in one direction (or in both directions for
a two-lane or three-lane road) during a given time period under prevailing
road and traffic conditions. It is the maximum rate of flow that has a
reasonable expectation of occurring. In the absence of a time modifier,
capacity is an hourly volume. The capacity would not normally be exceeded
without changing one or more of the conditions that prevail. In expressing
capacity, it is essential to state the prevailing road and traffic conditions
under which the capacity is applicable.
1.
Category of a road described by Austroads functional classifications.
2.
Consistent terminology and designation of roads to provide a basis for

planning and decision making by state and local government agencies
responsible for various aspects of road administration.
road closures
Methods to restrict access to/from a local area and limit traffic flow at
intersections (including full, half and diagonal closures, etc.).
road condition (NHVR)
a) means a condition directed at:

protecting road infrastructure; or
preventing or minimising an adverse effect on the community arising
from noise, emissions or traffic congestion or from other matters
stated in approved guidelines; or
preventing or minimising significant risk to public safety arising from a
heavy vehicle use that is incompatible with road infrastructure or
traffic conditions; but
b) does not include a condition requiring the installation of equipment or
another thing in a vehicle unless the equipment or thing is required to be
installed in the vehicle for an intelligent access condition imposed in
connection with a condition directed at the matters mentioned in
paragraph (a)(i), (ii) or (iii).
road configuration
threshold
A time or traffic level at which the current in service pavement will be

improved or replaced, regardless of its condition because it does not meet
its designated level of service with respect to road configuration.
road cushions
Form of road hump that allows non-car traffic (cyclists /buses/emergency

vehicles/commercial vehicles) to pass unimpeded. Cyclists can simply
bypass the hump through the gap. Smaller vehicles are forced to go over
the cushion with one or both wheels.
road-friendly suspension
A suspension system which has a natural frequency less than 2 Hz and a

minimum damping ratio of 0.2, with at least half of the damping generated
by hydraulic shock absorbers.
road functional
classification
The classification of roads into groups according to their function.
road furniture
A general term covering all signs, streetlights and protective devices for the
control, guidance and safety of traffic, and the convenience of road users.
road hierarchy
The grading of roads according to increasing or decreasing importance of

their traffic-carrying or other function.
Term
Definition
road hump
A curved raised area of a road used to reduce vehicle speeds and

discourage through traffic use. Road humps are typically 70-150 mm high
with total length of 3-4 m. Also commonly referred to as a speed hump and
includes types such as the Watts profile hump and the sinusoidal hump.
road inventory
Inventory of all road characteristics, i.e. control devices, parking

restrictions, road widths, number of traffic lanes, etc.
road maintenance
The work required to keep a road at its specified level of service, including
the road surfacing, structure, furniture and drainage system.
road manager (NHVR)
For a road in a participating jurisdiction, means an entity that is declared by

a law of that jurisdiction to be the road manager for the road for the
purposes of the law of a participating jurisdiction.
For a mass or dimension authority, a road manager for a road in the area,
or on the route, to which the authority applies.
Road managers are defined in the Heavy Vehicle National Law as it is
applied in each jurisdiction i.e. each jurisdiction defines its set of road
managers.
road marker
see pavement marker
road marking
A word, figure, symbol, mark, line, raised marker or stud, or something

else, on the surface of a road to direct or warn traffic, but does not include
a painted island.
road marking paint
A liquid product containing solids in an organic or water-based solvent,

which can be applied in a single or multicomponent system. After
application, it forms a cohesive film by solvent evaporation and/or chemical
reaction process.
road marking(s)
All longitudinal and transverse lines, and other markings, including

diagonal/chevron markings, messages, numerals, arrows, kerb markings
and markings for parking, for the purpose of guiding traffic.
road network
A system of links and nodes designed to represent the system of roads on

the ground, which includes link characteristics and turning restrictions or
prohibitions (see network).
road number
A unique numerical identifier for each road.
road pavement stabilisation
The modification of any natural or prepared material to improve or maintain

its load carrying capacity.
road pricing
Attaching a price to road use for the purpose of allocating scarce road
space, which can vary according to level of traffic/usage.
road reserve
1.
A legally described area within which facilities such as roads, footpaths and
associated features may be constructed for public travel. Often called road.
2.
A term customarily used in New Zealand to refer to all land between the
legal road boundaries and typically includes the carriageway, footpaths and
other accessways, berms and other unpaved areas. Where roads have not
been formed, it also refers to so called 'paper roads'.
Term
road roughness
Definition
1.
A condition parameter used to characterise deviations from the intended

longitudinal profile of a road surface, with characteristic dimensions that
affect vehicle dynamics (and hence road user costs), ride quality and
dynamic pavement loading.
2.
A measure of surface irregularities with wavelengths between 0.5 and 50 m

in the longitudinal profile of one or two wheel tracks in a traffic lane,
reported in dimensionless units as either International Roughness Index
(IRI, m/km) or as NAASRA Roughness Meter counts (NRM, counts/km) for
the lane.
road safety engineering
A competence and experience in the investigation and analysis of crash

locations and the design of effective remedial engineering treatments.
roadside
That area between the reserve boundary and the nearest road shoulder.
roadside amenity
An area set aside to provide users with an opportunity to take breaks to

reduce driver and rider fatigue and to stop safely for any vehicle checks,
meal breaks, toilet breaks and driver changes.
roadside infrastructure
(road furniture)
A general term covering all road furniture, including signs, street lights and
protective devices for the control, guidance and safety of traffic, and the
convenience of road users.
roadside interview survey
Stopping vehicles at a survey station at the roadside and interviewing

drivers.
roadside safety barrier
A device erected parallel to the road to retain vehicles that are out of
control.
road sign
see traffic sign
road train (NHVR)
A combination, other than a B-double, consisting of a motor vehicle towing

at least two trailers, excluding any converter dolly supporting a semitrailer.
road type
Road types are approximately homogenous sections of road with similar

condition, carrying a similar traffic load under similar climatic and subsoil
conditions. Consequently, a road network can be made up of a number of
road types, the number being dependent on the accuracy required of the
analysis and the available computing power to undertake the analysis.
road user effects (RUE)
Unit values arrived at using cost estimation algorithms, normally used in

Australia as inputs into rural and urban road investment evaluation models.
Incorporates vehicle operating costs, travel time elements, crash costs, and
externality costs such as emissions and congestion.
road user movement

(RUM)
The movements being undertaken by people involved in a crash. This term

means the same as, and in most jurisdictions has been replaced by DCA or
VMC. From this term came the expression RUM code.
roadway
Any one part of the width of a road devoted particularly to the use of
vehicles, inclusive of shoulders and auxiliary lanes.
roadworks
A general term for any work on a road for construction, repair or

maintenance.
Term
Definition
robustness (RMS ITS)
Refers to the ability of a device or component to resist failure. Robustness

improves system availability through an increase in the MTBF at an
individual device level. Robustness can be delivered by various means
including:
Substantial and extensive testing to reduce hardware and software nonconformances or failures;
Over specification of functional performance parameters;
Type-testing hardware components and replacing sub-standard
components; and
Automation of pre-configuration processes of intelligent transport
systems.
rocking
Pavement deformation, associated with rigid pavements, caused by the

'pumping' of fines, related to poor subbase or subgrade support, or
differential support.
roll
The rotation of a vehicle around its longitudinal axis.
roller
An item of equipment, either drawn or self-propelled, used for compacting

pavement material.
rolling resistance
The resistance that occurs when a wheel or tyre rolls.
rolling stock (NHVR)
Rolling stock is a vehicle designed to operate or move on a railway track

and includes a locomotive, carriage, rail car, rail motor, light rail vehicle,
tram, light inspection vehicle, self-propelled infrastructure maintenance
vehicle, trolley, wagon or monorail vehicle.
A vehicle designed to operate both on and off a railway track is rolling stock
when the vehicle is being:
a) operated or moved on a railway track; or
b) maintained, repaired or modified in relation to the operation or movement
of the vehicle on a railway track.
rolling thin film oven test

(RTFOT)
A laboratory test to simulate the aging a bituminous binder will undergo in

an asphalt mixing plant.
rotary
see roundabout
rotary carriageway
The carriageway surrounding the central island of a roundabout. Also

called a circulating carriageway.
roughness
see road roughness
roundabout
A channelised intersection at which all traffic moves clockwise around a

central traffic island. In local streets and collector roads, roundabouts are
almost always constructed with a single circulating lane and single lane
approaches; however, this may depend on the predicted traffic volumes.
Roundabouts are effective for both three and four-leg intersections in
reducing the speeds of approaching traffic, reducing the number of conflict
points and reducing the angle of potential collisions. Roundabouts operate
most efficiently where traffic flows on all approaches are similar or where
the overall traffic flow is low.
roundabout regulatory sign
The sign (R 1-3) specified in the Australian Standard AS1742.1, placed at

each entry to a roundabout to indicate that all entering vehicles must give
way to vehicles that are within the roundabout and approaching from the
right.
roundabout warning sign
The sign (W 2-7) in AS1742.1 generally placed on approaches to a

roundabout to alert drivers to the presence of a roundabout ahead where it
may not be obvious to approaching traffic.
Term
Definition
rounded aggregate
An aggregate which is generally spherical or oval in shape and has a

smooth surface with no sharp or broken edges.
rounding
A curvature or curved section at the intersection of batters providing a

transition between the two slopes.
round trip
Any journey by one vehicle or unit from the start of the route to the end of it
and back again to the start.
route
1.
That combination of road sections connecting an origin and destination.
2.
In traffic assignment, a continuous group of links connecting two centroids,

which normally requires the minimum time to traverse.
3.
The path travelled by a public transport vehicle.
route classification
Heavy vehicles complying with the Performance Based Standards fall into
one of four levels. Corresponding routes on which they can travel are
classified according to factors such as loading limits and configurations.
Also see Performance Based Standards.
route kilometres
Sum of the round-trip lengths of all routes operated, regardless of the number
of times certain portions of a network may be used by different routes.
route marker
A sign indicating by means of a number, a device, or a colour, the course of

a particular route.
route service bus
A bus licensed to carry seated or standing passengers (or both) on

approved routes.
routine maintenance
Small mainly reactive works which are normally anticipated within a budget
timeframe, but their precise nature, location and timing are not known in
advance. Routine maintenance mainly consists of minor activities planned
on a short term basis, usually about two weeks or less.
RRPM
see raised reflective pavement marker
RSW
see reinforced soil wall
rubber
Naturally occurring polymer of isoprene. Available as an emulsion called

latex. Synthetic rubbers are also manufactured.
rubberised asphalt
An asphalt in which the binder consists of bitumen modified by the

incorporation of rubber, either natural or synthetic or other suitable polymer,
which helps resist fatigue of asphalt.
rubberised bitumen seal

(rubber seal)
A sprayed seal where the binder consists of bitumen modified by the

incorporation of rubber, either natural or synthetic.
rubble
Material consisting of stone of irregular shapes and sizes, broken brick or

the like, used to provide a stable or permeable filling or for other purposes.
RUM
see road user movement
rumble bars
see rumble strips
rumble strips
Narrow raised or specifically textured strips placed on a pavement or

sealed shoulder, generating noise and vibrations through vehicles in order
to alert drivers and encourage them to slow down (see safety bars). Also
used between opposing traffic lanes as a warning device.
run
The area of pavement selected for coverage in a single continuous

operation of the sprayer, profiler, stabiliser or paver. The area of pavement
selected for coverage with bituminous slurry during a single continuous
operation of the paving unit.
running course
A thin layer of loose stone which protects the crust of an unsealed road.
Term
Definition
running interval
The period during which a particular traffic movement is permitted to run

through a signalised intersection, and which is indicated by the display of a
green aspect.
running lane
The portion of the carriageway allotted for the use of a single line of
vehicles.
running speed
The speed over a specified section of highway, being the distance divided
by running time. The average for all traffic, or a component thereof, is the
summation of distances divided by the summation of running time.
running surface
That part of the pavement specifically designed to resist abrasion from

traffic and to minimise the entry of water (see wearing surface).
running time
The time a vehicle is in motion.
run-off
1.
A general term for water (normally from rainfall) flowing across the surface
of the ground.
2.
That part of the water precipitated onto a catchment area which flows as
surface discharge from the catchment area past a specified point.
run-off-road crashes
Occurs when a vehicle leaves the road and often collides with a roadside
object such as a tree or a pole.
run of quarry
Material produced by blasting in the quarry, without further processing such

as crushing or sieving.
runout area
Additional clear zone space needed to compensate for a non-recoverable

embankment slope.
rural arterial
Roads that provide a secondary network supporting the national highways,

linking centres as well as providing secondary interstate links (see arterial
road (rural)).
rural motorway
A motorway connecting urban and industrial areas that are some

considerable distance apart.
rut
A vertical deformation of a pavement surface formed by the wheels of

vehicles.
rut depth
A measure of pavement rutting determined from the shape of the

transverse profile. Lane rut depth is the maximum rut depth across the
entire transverse profile. Wheelpath rut depth is the maximum rut depth in
each wheelpath or either half of the transverse profile.
rut-filling (slurry)
The placing of microsurfacing in wheel path ruts up to 50 mm deep using a

purpose-built spreader box called a rut-filling box.
rutting
The longitudinal vertical deformation of a pavement surface in a wheelpath,

measured relative to a straight edge placed at right angles to the traffic flow
and across the wheelpath, with a length/width ratio greater than 4:1.
Term
Definition
s-dimension (NHVR)
Sometimes used in the context of trailer wheelbase.

see wheelbase
safe failure mode (RMS ITS)
A safe state a system or component transitions to upon failure. The safe

state does not have the potential to put the safety-related system in a
hazardous or dangerous state.
failure, random failure, secondary failure, single point of failure and
systematic failure.
safe intersection sight

distance (SISD)
The sight distance required for a driver or rider on the priority road to
observe a vehicle from a side road moving into a collision situation, and to
decelerate to a stop before reaching the collision point.
safe location (NHVR)
A location where an authorised officer reasonably believes the heavy

vehicle will pose a reduced risk or no appreciable risk of harm to public
safety, the environment, road infrastructure or public amenity.
Example of a safe location
a depot of the heavy vehicle or, if the heavy vehicle is a combination, a
depot of a vehicle in the combination
a weighbridge
a rest area
a place where the heavy vehicle can be loaded or unloaded
safe system
The Safe System approach emphasises the way different elements of the
road transport system combine and interact with human behaviour to
produce an overall effect on road trauma. The key components of the
system are safer roads and roadsides (infrastructure), safer speeds and
safer vehicles. The Safe System approach is the current philosophy behind
the approach to road safety in Australia. The approach accepts that
humans will make errors and so crashes are likely to occur. What is
required is a road system that takes account of these errors and of the
physical tolerances of humans in such circumstances, allowing road users
to survive and avoid serious injury in the event of a crash.
safety barrier
A physical barrier separating roadside hazards or opposing traffic and the

travelled way, designed to resist penetration by an out-of-control vehicle
and as far as practicable, to stop or redirect colliding vehicles.
safety bars
Raised transverse bars placed in a series on a pavement or sealed should

to warn or discourage drivers from using that portion of a carriageway (see
rumble strips).
safety critical (RMS ITS)
A term applied to a condition, event, operation, function, process or item

whose proper recognition, control, performance or tolerance is directly
essential to safe operation or use, or the unmitigated failure of which would
cause an unacceptable level of risk of harm or loss of life.
safety fence
see guardrail
Term
Definition
safety function (RMS ITS)
A function to be implemented by a safety-related system which is intended

to achieve or maintain a safe state for the component, in respect of a
specific hazardous event.
Risk reduction is realised by defining functions for each possible
hazardous event or each possible dangerous condition of the system
which prevents the dangerous event occurring.
These safety functions are to maintain the system in a safe state or to reestablish a safe state if a dangerous event could occur due to a failure or a
disturbance in the system. The safety function can also be used to reduce
the extent of damage due to a hazardous event.
safety integrity (RMS ITS)
The probability of a safety-related system satisfactorily performing the

required safety functions under all the stated conditions within a stated
period of time. The higher the level of safety integrity of the safety-related
system, the lower the probability that the safety related system will fail to
carry out the required safety functions.
safety ramp
safety related (RMS ITS)
1.
A ramp designed to stop out-of-control vehicles, usually trucks, by using

gravel arrestor beds, upgrades, or a combination of both.
2.
A short trafficable spur road, usually with a steep upgrade, provided for
emergency use by vehicles on steep downgrades.
Refers to a designated system that both:
1. implements the required safety functions necessary to achieve or
maintain a safe state for the ITS component; and
2. is intended to achieve, on its own or with other ITS safety-related
systems, other technology safety-related systems or external risk
reduction facilities, the necessary safety integrity for the required safety
functions.
A safety-related system may:
a) be designed to prevent the hazardous event (i.e. if the safety-related
systems perform their safety functions then no hazardous event arises);
b) be designed to mitigate the effects of the hazardous event, thereby
reducing the risk by reducing the consequences; and
c) be designed to achieve a combination of a) and b).
safety risk (NHVR)
A risk:
a) to public safety; or
b) of harm to the environment.
safety screen
A screen barrier usually placed behind a bridge safety barrier, designed to

prevent objects being thrown onto the carriageway which is being spanned.
safety space
A space between a hazard or work site and safety barriers, etc., to ensure
traffic keeps a safe distance from the hazard or from workers on the work site.
safety zone
A pedestrian island or refuge at a bus or tram stop. It includes a defined

area within a traffic island at a channelised intersection where people wait,
board or disembark from buses or trams.
sag curve
A concave vertical curve in the longitudinal profile of a road.
salinity
The saltiness or dissolved salt content of a body of water.
Term
salvage value
Definition
1.
The estimated value of an asset at the end of its useful life.
2.
The residual value obtained from discarded or damaged material and/or

components which may be put to future use. (RMS ITS)
sample splitter
A device for obtaining a representative sample of material by division of a

larger sample.
sampling
The selection by a standard method of a representative portion of a

material for the purpose of ascertaining its characteristics.
sand
Natural or man-made mineral particles ranging in size from 2 mm to 60

microns and are free of appreciable quantities of clay and silt.
sand asphalt
A mixture of bitumen and well-graded sand, with or without filler, which is

usually mixed, spread and compacted while hot.
sand clay
A mixture of materials in which neither of the two components constitute

more than about two-thirds of the mixture.
sand equivalent test
An empirical measure of the quantity and type of fines in the fraction of an

aggregate or soil which passes a 4.75 mm sieve.
sand patch test
A volumetric test in which a known volume of sand (or glass beads) is

spread over a circular area of pavement until the texture accommodates all
the sand. The resulting area is divided into the known volume of sand (or
beads) to produce an 'average depth of texture'.
saturated phase
A signal phase in which the maximum possible number of vehicles enter

the intersection.
saturation flow
1.
The flow past a point on a carriageway which would be obtained if there

was a continuous queue of vehicles waiting upstream of that point.
2.
The rate of flow of vehicles across a STOP line at a signalised approach

during the effective green time if there was a continuous queue of vehicles
waiting to move during that time, and usually expressed as vehicles per
hour of green.
scabbing
Loss of patches of aggregate from a seal.
scarification (asphalt)
The removal of the top 25 mm to 50 mm of an asphalt pavement, usually

after heating.
scarifying
The systematic disruption and loosening of the top of a pavement or of

natural ground by mechanical or other means.
SCATS
see Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System
SCATS DS
Degree of saturation in the SCATS adaptive control method.
SCATS master isolated

control
The SCATS adaptive control method for a single (isolated) signalised

intersection.
scatter coat
A light application of small size aggregate to temporarily lock in a larger size

aggregate seal to reduce aggregate movement during rolling and initial
trafficking.
scheduled maintenance
Preventative maintenance performed at prescribed or scheduled points in a

system operational life.
Proactive Maintenance, Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM) and
Servicing.
(RMS ITS)
Term
Definition
scheme
A total plan of physical treatments and other measures for a street, group
of streets, or area.
SCOOT
see split cycle offset optimisation technique
scour monitoring
Use of sensors and mechanical set-ups to monitor the loss of material

adjacent to piers, piles and abutments during flood events. A typical fixed
scour monitoring system includes sensors, data loggers and a data transfer
system. The sensors may be connected to the data logger(s) by a wired or
wireless connection.
scramble-crossing phase
An exclusive pedestrian phase at an intersection where pedestrians are

allowed to cross in any direction including diagonally within the limits of the
crosswalk lines (see exclusive pedestrian phase).
scrap rubber
Rubber particles manufactured from waste or reclaimed rubber products

such as vehicle tyres and graded to conform to a specified size range.
scrap rubber asphalt
An asphalt made using scrap rubber modified bitumen binder.
scrap rubber modified

binder
A two phase system of vulcanised rubber particles dispersed in bitumen

where the particles are partially digested and partially swollen by the
digestion of bitumen oils.
screed
1.
That part at the rear of a paver which strikes-off and levels the asphalt mix
to grade and slope and imparts initial compaction to the asphalt mix by
means of vibration or tamping or a combination of both.
2.
A strip of wood or metal which is moved by hand to strike-off or finish a

surface to a required shape or texture.
3.
The operation of forming a surface by the use of screeds.
screen
A large sieve usually mechanically operated used to separate material by

size. The sieving surface may be either flat or cylindrical in form.
screenings (coarse
aggregate)
Aggregate screened to a single size substantially within the range 26.5 mm

to 4.75 mm and usually used for sprayed seals.
screen line
An arbitrary line across an area upon which traffic counts are obtained at
each point where the line intersects a road.
SCRIM
see Sideways force Coefficient Routine Investigation Machine
seagull intersection
An intersection where a triangular island is used to separate turning traffic

from through traffic in the same carriageway.
seagull island
A triangular island used to separate right turning traffic from through traffic
in the same carriageway.
seal (bituminous)
A thin surface layer of bituminous material into which aggregate is

incorporated.
seal coat
1.
A bituminous waterproofing layer on top of a pavement.
2.
A chip seal placed on top of a primed or first coat sealed surface.
seal coat (geotextile)
The application of a seal to provide a durable wearing course. It may be

reinforced with a geotextile.
sealed carriageway
That portion of the road pavement sealed to protect and waterproof the
underlying pavement, (inclusive of sealed shoulders) and provide a suitable
driving surface for vehicles.
Term
Definition
sealed shoulder
The sealed edge of roads outside of the travelled carriageway (the

shoulder) of roads. Sometimes it is delineated by an edge line applied
between the sealed shoulder and the travelled section of a carriageway.
The treatment is almost invariably associated with unkerbed roads, and is
often applicable to rural roads.
seasonal station
This is a counting station installed for a specific period (usually one year) to
obtain information for factoring short term counts to establish AADT.
seat kilometres
Performance indicator in which the number of seats provided is multiplied

by the number of kilometres travelled. When compared to passenger
kilometres, efficiency level can be established.
second aggregate (NZ)
A non-premium aggregate with sufficient durability to support its economic

use on unsealed roads.
secondary controller
A traffic signal controller under the control of a master controller.
secondary failure (RMS ITS)
Any additional failure of a component or unit, above and beyond the initial
failure mode, that occurs as a direct consequence of the initial failure.
failure, random failure, safe failure mode, single point of failure and
systematic failure.
secondary impact angle

(road safety barrier)
The angle at which the vehicle impacts a road safety barrier for the second
time.
secondary/passive safety
Countermeasures aimed at reducing the severity of the vehicle damage or

road user injury e.g. seat belts.
secondary signal
A traffic signal located on the far right side of the controlled area.
secondary signal face
The signal face mounted on a post on the downstream side to the right of
the approach (see primary signal face, tertiary signal face).
second coat seal (NZ)
Waterproof bituminous surfacing.
section operating speed
The 85th percentile speed of cars traversing a section of road alignment.
seepage
The exudation from an exposed surface of small quantities of water.
segment (links, blocks,

treatment lengths)
A section of road within which the road service level standard is consistent.
A segment for pavement management purposes is generally between
500 m and 5 km long in rural areas (much shorter in urban areas).
segregated path
Path now referred to as a separated path.
segregation
Separation of coarse aggregate from the matrix of a graded material such

as crushed rock, asphalt and concrete. Separation of the cement-water
paste from an aggregate in concrete.
select fill (selected fill)
Fill complying with specified requirements (CBR, grading, PI, etc.).
semi-actuated control
semi-barrier kerb
A kerb designed to deter vehicles from leaving the carriageway, but which
is less restrictive than a barrier kerb (see barrier kerb).
semi-mountable kerb
A kerb designed so that it can be driven across in an emergency or on

special occasions without damage to the vehicle.
semi-traffic actuated
controller
A traffic signal controller in which the sequence of aspects and the duration
of some, but not all, intervals are varied in accordance with varying
demands.
Term
Definition
semi-trailer
A trailer (including a pole-type trailer) that has one axle group or single axle
to the rear, and a means of attachment to a prime mover that results in
some of the load being imposed on the prime mover.
sensor measured texture

depth (SMTD)
A continuous measure of macrotexture where the pavement surface is

divided into smaller segments of a given base length, approximately 300
mm long, which are analysed, assigned a value and averaged to give a
mean value for a specific length of profile.
separated path
A path divided into separated sections one of which is designated for the
exclusive use of cyclists and an alternate section for other path users.
separated bicycle lane
Physically segregated lanes for bicycles, which maintain directness of

travel and intersection priority whilst divided from motor traffic. Includes
kerb separated and protected bicycle lanes.
separation line
A line marking the division of a carriageway between traffic moving in

opposite directions, and across which overtaking and right turning
manoeuvres may be made.
separator
An area separating adjacent carriageways, upon each of which traffic

usually moves in the same direction.
sequence
see display sequence
serviceability
1.
The degree to which a facility meets relevant requirements, standards or

satisfaction of the road user. It may be quantified by factors such as riding
quality and rut depth.
2.
The relative ease at with which an item can be serviced (i.e. kept in
operating condition). (RMS ITS)
Also see unserviceable
service area
1.
Land with access to and from a highway, used for the provision of certain
amenities and services such as maintenance of vehicles and sale of fuel.
2.
Geographical area that a public transport system is considered to serve,

normally based on acceptable walking distances from the station or stops,
e.g. 0.4 km.
3.
The area in a development set aside for the manoeuvring, parking and
loading or unloading of commercial vehicles for the delivery or removal of
goods, freight or waste.
service bay
A designated space clear of the apron to accommodate a commercial

vehicle parked at a loading dock.
service level (RMS ITS)
A target level, usually expressed in measurable terms, that the services the
support service provider / contractor furnishes a customer within a given
time period.
Also see level of service (LOS).
service life (RMS ITS)
The time for which the device or component is designed to function. This,
therefore, is the time up to the beginning of the wear-and-tear phase
through a physical law or aging due to chemical reactions. In the case of
devices with electromechanical parts (relays), the service life is mainly
defined by the number of operations and the load connected.
requisite life, remaining service life and useful life.
service request (NHVR)
Applying for services in an unstructured manner without designated forms

and formats. An example is a complaint from the public about an operator.
Term
Definition
service response time (RMS
The time between receipt of the fault notification and the time that the
support service provider / contractor commences working on a reported
issue. The service response time immediately starts with receipt of an
incident report or service request.
ITS)
service road
That part of a road that:

a) is separated from other parts of the road by a dividing strip that is not
designed or developed, wholly or mainly, to separate vehicles travelling
in opposite directions, and
b) is designed or developed to be used, wholly or mainly, by traffic servicing
adjacent land; or indicated to be a service road by information on or with
a traffic control device on the road.
services
Supply lines for water, electricity, gas, telephones, etc.
service time
Time spent by a public transport vehicle driver in charge of the vehicle.
service traffic

(ESAs), from the post construction opening to traffic or
rehabilitation/replacement condition to a predetermined threshold value of a
range of distresses beyond which the pavement no longer meets its
designated level of service.
service trench
A trench for a public utility such as gas, electricity, telecommunications,

water, sewage pipes; often within the road right-of-way.
service vehicle
A domestic fire appliance or garbage vehicle, which require periodic access

to residential streets. The dimensions of this vehicle are taken from the
latest version of Australian Standard for Parking Facilities AS 2890.2, using
the dimensions for the medium rigid vehicle.
service volume
The maximum traffic volume that can be accommodated on or over a traffic

facility at a specified level of service.
serviceability (RMS ITS)
The relative ease at with which an item can be serviced (i.e. kept in
operating condition).
servicing (RMS ITS)
Operations or tasks required periodically to keep an item in proper

operating condition (i.e. to clean, charge, configure, lubricating etc.) but not
including preventative maintenance of parts or corrective maintenance
tasks.
Proactive Maintenance, Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM) and
Scheduled Maintenance.
servicing rate
The rate at which vehicles can be passed through a facility, e.g. through a
toll gate.
setback
The distance of (say) a pole from the edge of a roadway.
setting-out line
A straight reference line between known fixed points from which a

bridge/structure can be set out.
settlement
A downward movement of the soil or of the structure it supports.

Also see differential settlement.
settlement test (emulsion)
A test of the quality of an emulsion of bitumen, made by observing the

quantity of bitumen deposited from the emulsion in a given time under
specified conditions.
set up
To harden or cure by evaporation of volatiles.
Term
Definition
severity
Either injury severity, from fatal to uninjured, or crash severity, which

refers to highest injury category or (if no one is injured) the highest damage
category occurring in the crash.
shadow vehicle
A vehicle that provides close-up protection to the rear of workers on foot.
shale
Sedimentary argillaceous rock occurring in or capable of being split into

thin laminae.
shallow shear
Where a pavement layer loses stability and shoves under vehicle loading.
shape correction
Correcting the shape of a road with an overlay.
shared lane
A lane allocated for use by two or more movements, e.g. shared through
and right-turn lane (see exclusive lane).
shared path
A paved area particularly designed (with appropriate dimensions, alignment

and signing) for the movement of cyclists and pedestrians.
shared responsibility
Previously the majority of road safety responsibility rested with the

individual road user. Within a Safe System all have an individual and
shared role in road safety. Road users remain responsible for complying
with all road rules such as speed limits, using restraints and protective
equipment, driving unimpaired and purchasing vehicles with good safety
features. System designers are responsible for planning, designing and
influencing the operation of a Safe System.
shared zone
1.
A length of carriageway in which vehicles are required by regulation to give

way to pedestrians.
2.
Residential road surfaced and marked such that motorists recognise it as

an area shared by both vehicles and pedestrians. A reduced speed limit is
necessary in such areas. Also known as mixed traffic lane/street.
sharrow markings
Shared lane markings, which indicate that the lane is to be shared by

cyclists and motorists.
shear resistance
The ability of a surfacing to resist lateral deformation due to acceleration,

braking and cornering.
sheet asphalt (overseas

term)
A mixture of bitumen and finely graded mineral matter, mixed hot and
spread and compacted while hot to form the wearing course of a pavement.
The mineral matter may range from a powder up to such size as will pass
through a 6.70 mm sieve.
sheet piling
A system of piles (usually of special section) driven into the ground with
their edges in close contact or interlocking to provide a tight wall to prevent
leakage of water and soft materials, or driven to resist the lateral pressure
of adjacent ground.
shift
1.
An alteration to the previously adopted position of the centreline.
2.
The radial displacement of a circular curve from the tangent line resulting
from the introduction of a transition curve.
shifted traffic
Component of traffic whose desire lines have been shifted because of

change of origin or destination.
short-term (traffic control)
Description that applies when a traffic guidance scheme is required only

while work personnel are in attendance, and is generally limited to the
duration of a single work shift.
short-term station
A counting station set up for a short time. The counter is then moved to the
next site to provide the widest possible sample counting within a region.
Seasonal factors are used to estimate AADT from this data.
Term
Definition
shoulder
The portion of formed carriageway that is adjacent to the traffic lane and
flush with the surface of the pavement.
shoulder drain
A drain through the shoulder to drain the subgrade.
shoulder dressing material
Material used as the surface course for unsealed shoulders.
shoulder hinge point
In the cross-section of a road, the point at which the side slope would
intersect with the unsealed shoulder, or in the absence of an unsealed
shoulder, the sealed shoulder.
shoving
Lateral displacement of pavement structure by braking, accelerating or

turning vehicles.
shrinkage
Interconnected cracks in a road which form a series of large blocks usually

with sharp corners or angles. Frequently caused by volume change in
either the base or subgrade, or occasionally the asphalt mix.
shy line
The offset from the edge of a traffic lane beyond which a roadside feature
does not cause drivers to slow unnecessarily, or steer away from, at their
current travel speed.
side boards
Timber placed along the edges of a pavement for protection and support.
side cut
That portion of a road on sloping ground where one edge only of the
formation is in cut and the other edge is on the natural surface or on fill.
side drain
A longitudinal surface drain or ditch usually U-shaped and generally located

between the surface water channel and the legal road boundary. In some
situations the side drain may run immediately adjacent to the road
pavement and collect surface water run-off from the road surface and
adjacent land.
side forms
Timber or steel forms used during the laying of a pavement.
side friction
1.
The retarding effect on the free flow of traffic caused by interference of any
sort at either edge of a carriageway or traffic lane, other than at an intersection.
2.
Friction force acting on a vehicle during cornering.
side slope
The uniform side slope of walls, banks, cuttings or embankments,

expressed as a ratio of 1 vertical on x horizontal as distinct from grade.
side wall
A thin wall which extends upwards from the side of a pier or abutment, to
either hide deck joints from view, or to retain a batter from filling onto an
abutment sill.
sideways force coefficient

(SFC)
Measurement of road surface and vehicle tyre interaction undertaken with

sideway force test equipment.
Also see Sideways force Coefficient Routine Investigation Machine
(SCRIM).
Sideways force Coefficient

Routine Investigation
Machine (SCRIM)
A self-contained machine that provides a routine method of measuring the

skid resistance of roads under wet conditions, and is capable of testing one
or both wheelpaths of long lengths of road at a specified speed.
sieve
A box or tray whose base is made of woven wire or similar material or of

perforated metal plate, having apertures of defined shapes and sizes.
sight board
A timber or metal board (usually reflective or painted white) placed to

highlight a change in road direction or some other hazard (see chevron
board and target board).
Term
Definition
sight distance
The distance, measured along the road over which visibility occurs
between a driver or rider and an object or between two drivers at specific
heights above the carriageway in their lane of travel.
1.
Approach sight distance (ASD): The distance required for a driver or rider
to perceive marking or hazards on the road surface approaching an
intersection and to stop.
2.
Car stopping distance (CSD): The distance required for a car driver to
perceive a hazard, react and brake to a stop. For design purposes, wet
weather conditions and locked wheel braking are assumed.
3.
Entering sight distance (ESD): The sight distance required for minor road
drivers or riders to enter a major road via a left or right turn, such that traffic
on the road is unimpeded.
4.
Manoeuvre sight distance (MSD): The distance required for an alert driver
or rider to perceive an object on the road and to take evasive action.
5.
Minimum gap sight distance (MGSD): The minimum sight distance based
on the gap necessary to perform a particular movement.
6.
Overtaking sight distance (OSD): The sight distance required for a driver or
rider to initiate and safely complete an overtaking manoeuvre.
7.
Railway crossing sight triangle: The clear area required for a driver or rider
to perceive a train approaching an uncontrolled railway crossing and to
stop.
8.
Safe intersection sight distance (SISD): The distance required for a driver
or rider on a major road to observe a vehicle entering from a side road, and
to stop before colliding with it.
9.
Sight distance through underpass: The distance required for a driver or

rider to see beneath a bridge located across the main road, to perceive any
hazard on the road ahead, and to stop.
10.
Stopping sight distance: The sight distance required by an average driver

or rider, travelling at a given speed, to react and stop before striking an
object on the road.
11.
Truck Stopping sight distance: Distance required for a truck driver to

perceive a hazard, react and brake to a stop. For design purposes, the
braking of an unladen vehicle in wet weather conditions without locking the
wheels is assumed.
sight triangle
The area of land between two intersecting roadways over which vehicles
on both roadways are visible to each driver.
sign
see traffic sign
signal
see traffic signal
signal aspect
see aspect
signal controller
see controller
signal coordination
see coordination
signal cycle
see cycle
signal display
see display
signal face
A set of signal aspects in a common assembly, generally in one or two

columns placed together with a target board to improve signal visibility,
facing traffic from one direction.
Term
Definition
signal group
A set of lanterns with common electrical switching such that the aspects
illuminated in each lantern are always identical.
signal group overlap
see overlapping signal group
signal head
The physical and optical hardware attached to one support and which
displays signal faces to one or more directions.
signal head assembly
see signal head
signal intensity
The luminous intensity of the signal aspects (see luminance and luminous
intensity).
signalised crossing
(pedestrians)
An area of the road used by pedestrians when crossing the road with the
guidance of pedestrian signals at a mid-block or intersection location, and
can be used by cyclists if bicycle signals are provided.
signal lantern
see lantern
signal linking
see coordination
signal offsets
see offsets
signal phase
see phase
signal phasing
Sequential arrangement of separately controlled groups of vehicle and

pedestrian movements within a signal cycle to allow all vehicle and
pedestrian movements to proceed.
signal post
Post or pole used for mounting traffic signal lanterns adjacent to the
carriageway. ('Pedestal' used in Victoria).
signal range
The distance over which the signal is intended to be clearly visible to

approaching traffic.
signal sequence
see display sequence
signal system
1.
Signal installation for the control of two or more related intersections.
2.
Safety feature of transport system, which regulates the flow of traffic in an

orderly fashion.
signal timing
The process of determining durations of successive intervals of green,

yellow and red displays, actuated signal control settings, as well as offsets
for coordinated signals.
sill beam

the superstructure.
silt
Any fine mineral material intermediate in particle size between sand and
clay. It is formed by the grinding of rocks under a glacier to form a powder.
It usually has a low plasticity.
simultaneous control
The operation of a coordinated signal system to provide for the

simultaneous commencement of running intervals for a particular group.
simultaneous-offset
coordination
Signal coordination where green periods in the travel direction start at the
same time (zero offset). This is useful when the back of the queue at the
downstream intersection interrupts progression at closely spaced
intersections (see offset).
single axle group
A group of at least two axles in which the horizontal distance between the
centre lines of the outermost axles is under 1 m.
single/double seal
A seal consisting of a single application of binder followed by a double

application of aggregate.
Term
Definition
single-lane roundabout
A roundabout with all entry and exit carriageways and the circulating
carriageway designed for and operated as a single lane or line of traffic.
single point of failure (RMS
The failure of an item which would result in failure of the system and is not
compensated for by redundancy or an alternative operational procedure.
failure, random failure, safe failure mode, secondary failure and systematic
failure.
ITS)
single seal
A seal coat made up of one application of binder and aggregate.
singlesided road safety

barrier
A road safety barrier designed for impact on one side only.
single/single seal
A seal consisting of a single application of binder followed by a single

application of aggregate.
single-size aggregate
(one-size aggregate)
An aggregate having a major proportion of particles lying between narrow

size limits.
single trip permit (NHVR)
A permit for a specific vehicle to carry a specific load over a specified route
on a specified date (or a single trip within a limited date range).
single unit truck
A truck or bus no longer than 12.5 metres which is allowed access to the
general road network. The dimensions of this vehicle have been specified
in the Australian Vehicle Standards Rules, and include larger fire
appliances which require access to certain parts of the road network, for
example in industrial areas.
sinusoidal hump
A road hump that incorporates curved transitions to minimise the impact of

grade change.
Site Acceptance Tests

(SAT) (RMS ITS)
Tests conducted at the operational site. They are normally conducted at

component and subassembly level to verify that no faults have been
introduced during transportation or commissioning. Testing is subsequently
conducted at a system level to verify system performance in its operational
environment.
site category
A generic description of a road site type against which investigatory levels

are assigned.
site investigation
The examination of all those characteristics of a site which might affect the
planning, design, construction and operation or performance of any
engineering works on site. Note: Site investigation is not limited to
determining subsurface condition but includes consideration of other
aspects such as access, drainage, liability to flooding, availability of public
utility services and construction materials.
skel-trailer (also skeletal

trailer) (NHVR)
A semitrailer or trailer consisting of a bare framework and chassis used

primarily for transporting containerised freight.
skeletal structure
(asphalt mix)
The internal structure of an asphalt mix resulting formed by the mechanical

interlock between particles arising from their shape and disposition relative
to each other.
skew angle
The angle between a line at right angles to the control line/setting-out line
and the pier or abutment.
skid limit
Degree of braking at which wheel lockup commences.
skid resistance
The frictional relationship between a pavement surface and vehicle tyres

during braking or cornering manoeuvres. Normally measured on wet
surfaces, it varies with the speed and the value of slip adopted.
Term
Definition
skid resistance value

(SRV)
The value obtained from the British Pendulum Tester, adjusted for
temperature. The SRV is sometimes referred to as British pendulum
number (BPN).
skim table
Matrix of zone-to-zone distances, travel times, travel costs or other

measures of impedance in a standard trip table format.
skinning of emulsion
The formation of a bituminous skin which can occur on the surface of an

emulsion during the early stages of the breaking process.
slag
The by-product of smelting ore to purify metals.
slick surface
A surface that has become hard, smooth and slippery.
slip
A movement or fall of earth in a cut or bank.
slip base poles
A pole mounted on two base plates that are clamped together with bolts
that release on impact allowing the pole to break away from its foundation.
slip lane
A left-turn lane separated from an adjacent lane by a triangular island.
slippage
A translatory failure of an overlay through failure of a bond with the

undercourse, usually indicated by crescent-shaped cracks on the pavement
surface.
slope
1.
The inclination of a surface with respect to the horizontal, expressed as rise

or fall in a certain longitudinal distance.
2.
An inclined surface.
slot drain
A line of slots in the pavement to allow water to drain usually into a piped
stormwater system.
slow point one lane
One-lane slow points are similar to two-lane slow points but one of the
build-outs is designed to constrict the carriageway to a single lane, so that
one traffic stream is required to stop and give priority to the other. This
treatment should be used on low traffic volume roads only.
slow point two lane
Two-lane slow points are horizontal deflection treatments formed by

building out the kerb on alternate sides of a single carriageway road to
narrow the road and to deflect the path of through traffic. The kerb buildouts are usually combined with a central traffic island and may include
mountable sections to cater for larger vehicles.
slow-setting bitumen
emulsion
An emulsion characterised by slow breaking and with sufficient mechanical

and chemical stability for all purposes and requiring mixing with aggregate,
including those containing large portions of fines. It is also suitable for
premixing with soil for stabilisation purposes, for surface enrichment and
dust laying.
slump
A measure of the consistency of freshly mixed cement concrete,

determined in accordance with standard test procedure.
slump test
The standard test to measure slump.
slurry
A stable suspension of aggregate and filler in a less dense, liquid

bituminous emulsion.
slurry seal
A thin layer of bituminous slurry surfacing, usually without a polymer

modifier.
slurry surfacing
A general term for slurry seal and microsurfacing.
small bus
A bus having an occupant capacity, including the driver, of up to 20

persons.
Term
Definition
smooth
A surface condition in which the aggregate is worn and the texture depth is
minimal.
SMVU
see Survey of Motor Vehicle Usage
soak pit
A large hole filled with rock or stone to create a large surface area in
surrounding ground so that surface run-off can soak away.
societal risk
The risk of widespread or large-scale detriment from the realisation of a

defined hazard on such a scale as to provoke a socio/political response,
and/or that the risk provokes public discussion and is effectively regulated
by society as a whole through its political processes and regulatory
mechanisms.
soffit
The highest portion of the internal surface of a pipe, culvert or arch.
softening point
The temperature at which a bituminous binder softens under standard

specified conditions. Usually determined by the ring and ball softening point
test, which measures the temperature at which a disc of the binder softens
sufficiently to allow a standard steel ball, initially placed on the surface, to
fall through the disc for a prescribed distance.
Software Configuration
Item (RMS ITS)
Software items which are to be controlled under a configuration

management system.
soil
Unconsolidated material and organic material derived from weathering or

breakdown of rock and decay of vegetation. Soil materials include organic
matter, clay, silt, sand and gravel.
soil suction
The negative pressure by which water is retained in the voids of a soil

sample when the sample is free from external stresses.
solo driver (NHVR)
A driver who is not a party to a two-up driving arrangement.
soundness
The ability of an aggregate to withstand deterioration due to environmental

conditions.
soundness test
An assessment of the soundness of a material as determined by some

specified test. The term is generally understood to refer to a particular test
for cement.
space headway
see spacing
space length
The following distance between two successive vehicles as measured

between the rear end of one vehicle and the front end of the next vehicle in
the same traffic lane (spacing less vehicle length).
space mean speed
The average of the speeds of vehicles within a given space or section of a

roadway at a given instant, or the average speed of a specified group of
vehicles based on their average travel time over a section of roadway.
space occupancy ratio
The proportion of a road section (distance) occupied by vehicles at an

instant in time.
space speeds
Speed of individual vehicles on a section of road measured at a given

instant.
space time
The time between the detection of two consecutive vehicles when the
presence detection zone is not occupied. It is equivalent to gap time less
the time taken to travel the effective detection zone length.
spacing
The distance between the fronts of two consecutive vehicles in a traffic

stream at a given instant of time.
spalling
A surface defect chiefly in concrete and occasionally in heavily bound

pavements, where disintegration occurs at edges, joints, corners or cracks.
Term
span
span length
Definition
1.
The distance between the centres of adjacent supports of a bridge, beam

or truss.
2.
The superstructure of a bridge between two adjacent supports.
1.
End spans the distance between the end of superstructure and the centre
of the nearest pier.
2.
Intermediate spans the distance between the centres of piers. For design
purposes the span length is the length between centres of supports.
special purpose lane

special purpose vehicle
(SPV) (NHVR)
A marked lane or the part of a marked lane that is a bicycle lane, bus lane,
emergency stopping lane, tram lane, transit lane or truck lane.
1.
A motor vehicle or trailer, other than an agricultural vehicle or a tow truck,

built for a purpose other than carrying goods; or
2.
A concrete pump or fire-engine.
special vehicle aspects
Signal aspects for special vehicles (bus, tram, emergency vehicle)

consisting of red, yellow and white B, T and E symbols (see special vehicle
signal face).
special vehicle signal face
A single column signal face for the control of special vehicles (bus, tram,
emergency vehicle) movements (see special vehicle aspects).
speed
1.
Distance travelled per unit time: 85th percentile speed. The speed at which
85% of car drivers will travel slower and 15% will travel faster. operating
speed of trucks The 85th percentile speed of trucks measured at a time
when traffic volumes are low.
2.
Section operating speed: The value at which vehicle speeds on a series of

curves tend to stabilise are related to the range of radii on the curves. (see
operating speed, street speed and design speed).
speed (85th percentile)
The speed at or below which 85% of vehicles travel.
speed bump
A vehicle speed control device in the form of a short raised section of

carriageway (see road hump).
speed camera
A camera attached to a speed measuring device (either mobile or fixed).

The speed measuring device records the speed of vehicles and triggers the
camera to take photographs of vehicles travelling above the speed limit.
Some speed cameras are digital and online and can be set up to transmit
information automatically back to a central controlling office. Other cameras
are traditional wet film and require an operator to retrieve the information
from the camera. Methods of measuring speed include the use of radar and
laser guns, as well as devices which measure the time taken between
vehicle wheels passing over piezo-electric loops, and (rarely nowadays)
pneumatic tubes.
speed-change lane
A subdivision of auxiliary lanes, which covers those lanes used primarily for
the acceleration or deceleration of vehicles. It is usual to refer to the lane
by its purpose (e.g. deceleration lane).
speed environment
A basic design parameter for a section of road, representing the uniform

desired speed of the 85th percentile driver. It can be measured on existing
roads as the 85th percentile of the speed distribution on the longer straights
or large radius curves over the section.
speed hump
A hump constructed across a road. The profile is designed to encourage

drivers to slow their vehicles to an acceptable speed.
speed limit signs
Signs displaying reduced speed limits - may be implemented on an areawide basis.
Term
Definition
speed maintenance
That quality of routes that permits road users to maintain their speed.
speed management
Aimed at persuading drivers to adopt safe speeds and includes police

enforcement, driver education, speed limits and engineering treatments.
speed survey
A traffic survey involving the measurement of the speed of vehicles.
speed zone
A length of road subject to legally enforceable speed limits.
spin
Uncontrolled yaw (see yaw).
splay
see corner cut-off
split-approach phasing
The signal phasing arrangement that allocates separate phases to

opposing approaches, allowing the through and all turning movements from
each approach to operate simultaneously.
split cycle offset

optimisation technique
(SCOOT)
An adaptive system that responds automatically to fluctuations in traffic

flow through the use of on-street detectors embedded in the road. SCOOT
was developed by TRL Limited, in collaboration with UK traffic systems
suppliers.
split-diamond interchange
The combination of two half-diamond interchanges of opposite direction

serving two closely spaced surface roads, such that the movements
available to turning traffic are substantially similar to those provided at a
full-diamond interchange.
splitter island
A short median island on approach to a roundabout, intersection or

junction.
spot speed
Speed of individual vehicles as they pass a given point on the road.
sprayed seal (chip seal)
A thin layer of binder sprayed onto a pavement surface with a layer of

aggregate incorporated and which is impervious to water.
Also see chip seal.
sprayed surfacing
A thin layer of aggregate and bituminous binder which as the uppermost

pavement layer is directly subjected to the forces of vehicular traffic.
spraying (NZ)
Use of chemicals and water to control vegetation.
spreadability test
A test used to measure the consistency of very fluid concrete mixes.
spreader box (slurry

surfacing)
A device capable of producing a uniform bituminous slurry surface and

equipped with either a flexible or rigid rear strike-off screed.
sprung mass
Rigid body having equal mass, the same centre of gravity and the same
moments of inertia about identical axes as the total sprung weight.
square trip table
Matrix of zone-to-zone trips showing trips by direction between each pair of

zones (see triangular trip table).
squeeze point
A narrowing of the road that may be hazardous for road users such as
cyclists who are forced to move nearer to or into an adjacent stream of traffic.
stabilisation
The treatment of a road pavement or subgrade material by the introduction

of a binder to improve it or to correct a known deficiency and thus enhance
its ability to perform its function in the pavement. It can be conducted
mechanically or through the use of chemicals.
stabilisation (soil)
Providing adequate measures (vegetative and/or structural) to prevent

erosion from occurring.
stabilised material
Any material which has been stabilised.
Term
Definition
stabilised soil
A material which has been modified to improve or maintain its load carrying
capacity. Mechanical stabilisation is carried out by the addition of other
natural materials such as sand, loam or clay or by blending in binders such
as cement, lime, and bitumen.
stabiliser
A specialist machine that uniformly mixes the pavement or subgrade

material with binders without the material being taken from the site.
stability (bitumen mixes,

asphalt)
The ability to resist deformation under load.
stability (emulsion)
The resistance to separation of the dispersed bitumen phase from the

bitumen emulsion.
stability (Marshall)
The maximum load that can be applied to an asphalt mix when compacted
and tested under specified conditions for the Marshall test.
stag trailer (NHVR)
A short last trailer in a B-double combination that connects to a fifth wheel

on the towing trailer situated under the towing trailers load-carrying area.
stage construction
1.
A construction sequence in which a road is initially constructed to an

operational or structural standard lower than its ultimate standard, and is
subsequently upgraded to the ultimate standard.
2.
Construction affecting an existing road in which work is carried out in a

number of well-defined stages aimed at minimising disruption to traffic.
staged signalised crossing
A system by which a long signalised crossing is divided or staged into

several time-separated sections, each being a separate group controlled by
individual signals.
staggered T-intersection
An intersection in which the carriageway of one road is offset so as not to

be continuous across the other road.
staggered work hours
see work hours
stairway wheeling ramp
A stairway with a ramp beside it, preferably with a channel, along which a
bicycle can roll.
standard axle (standard

axle load)
Single axle with dual wheels loaded to a total mass of 8.2 tonne (80 kN).
standard compaction
The relationship between the moisture content and the dry density of a soil
compacted with a 2.7 kg rammer dropping 300 mm over three layers.
startability
The ability of a heavy vehicle to commence forward motion on a specified

upgrade.
starting display
see starting signal
starting-offset coordination
Coordination of the start times of green periods using a signal offset that
equals the average uninterrupted travel time in the travel direction so as to
minimise stops along the route (see offset).
starting signal
A signal which is located so that the drivers or riders who have stopped at
the stop line can see the signal display.
start loss
Duration of the interval between the start of the displayed green period and
the start of the effective green period for a movement. This is used in signal
timing and performance analysis to allow for queue discharge time losses
at the start of the green period due to vehicles accelerating to saturation
speed, or due to giving way to opposing vehicle or pedestrian movements.
Late start time can be treated as a start loss for the movement that starts
after the late start interval (see end gain).
static capacity
see parking capacity
Term
Definition
static roller
A roller using only its mass to compact the pavement.
static rollover threshold
The basic measure of rollover stability. High values imply better resistance
to vehicle rollover.
station
1.
Location at which traffic survey data is collected.
2.
Public transport passenger facility for boarding and alighting from vehicles.
statistical inference
Describing characteristics of a population based on analysis of a

representative sample.
statistical zone
see zone
steel roller (drum roller)
A roller with steel wheels may be static or vibrating.
steer-tyre friction demand
The maximum friction level demanded of the steer tyres of the hauling unit
in a prescribed 90 low-speed turn.
stemming
The filling material used in a drill hole either between the explosive charges
or between the explosive charges and the ground surface.
step
1.
Abrupt rise or difference in levels in the bicycle riding surface.
2.
To form a ledge or bench.
stiffening
The hardening of a bituminous material by cooling or by evaporation of the

volatiles.
stiffness
The relationship between stress and strain as a function of time of loading

and temperature.
stiffness (elastometer test)
The stiffness of a material, expressed as the ratio of the shear stress over
the shear strain.
see elastic modulus
stochastic assignment
see probabilistic assignment
stockpile
A heap or stack of aggregate held in stock for future use.
stock subway
A structure constructed to permit the passage of stock beneath a road.
stone mastic asphalt

(SMA)
A gap-graded wearing course mix with a high proportion of coarse

aggregate, which interlocks to form a skeletal structure to resist permanent
deformation. It has a high binder content.
stop line
A single continuous line (single continuous yellow line in New Zealand,

known as limit line) marked across all or part of a road, behind which
vehicles should stand when required to stop by traffic light signals or
regulatory signs (see give-way line).
stopped interval
The period of a traffic signal cycle during which a movement is not

permitted to run, and which is indicated by the display of a steady red
aspect.
stopped time
The time spent stationary on a journey as a result of situations over which

the driver has no control.
stopping display
see stopping signal
stopping distance
The distance travelled by a vehicle from the point where the driver
perceives a need to stop to the point where the vehicle comes to rest.
Usually the minimum distance is implied.
stopping sight distance
see stopping distance
(NHVR)
Term
Definition
stopping signal
A signal which is used to enable the approaching driver or rider to make a

decision either to stop safely in front of the stop line or proceed into the
intersection.
stop sign
A sign at an intersection indicating that the driver or rider must stop

completely and give way to all traffic on the left and the right.
storage
1.
In relation to bicycle route facilities, refers to the space used by cyclists to

wait (or 'store') so as to enhance safety.
2.
In relation to bicycle parking, the terms storage or parking are similar.
storage bins (asphalt)
Specially constructed silos for the storage of asphalt. They may be

designed for either short term or long term holding of material.
storage lane
An auxiliary lane, usually at intersections, primarily for use by vehicles

waiting to turn or cross.
stored value card (SVC)
Often used in applications such as paid parking. A stored value card is

required to be in the black in order for it to be functional.
straight edge
A straight metal box section with a defined length that is laid across
pavement ruts.
straight-run bitumen
A bitumen obtained after the final stage of distillation of petroleum without

further treatment or blending.
strain alleviating
membrane (SAM)
A sprayed seal with the binder containing a relatively large concentration of

rubber or polymer modifier. It is used to absorb strains that occur in a road
pavement and thereby reduce reflection cracking.
strain alleviating
membrane interlayer
(SAMI)
Similar to a SAM, but provided as an interlayer before placing an asphalt

overlay.
strand
A product consisting of two or more wires spun together in a helical form.

Usually bundled together to form a tendon.
strategic bicycle route
A route which experiences the highest level of use by cyclists, or has the
potential to do so with the implementation of a route or route network, or a
route defined by a strategic or local bicycle plan. Includes principal bicycle
network routes, and arterial and collector roads.
STREAMS
Intelligent transport system platform for signal coordination, freeway

management and other traffic management measures. Integrated with
SCATS in some Australian jurisdictions.
street
A road that has mainly continuous housing or buildings on one side or both.
It provides access to houses, buildings, shops, etc. with frontages onto the
street. A street, by definition, is therefore found only in an urban area.
street light
Lamps that are generally erected on poles along a street to illuminate the
immediate area.
streetscaping
Aesthetic changes to the street which do not have the primary purpose of
directly impacting on vehicle speeds.
street speed
The highest mean, 85th or any other percentile speed actually observed
along the street (or street section).
strength
The ability of a material to withstand rupture or cracking from applied loads.
stripping (pavement)
The loss of aggregate from a pavement layer or surfacing, caused by the

action of traffic, usually in the presence of water.
Term
Definition
structural capacity
A descriptive term indicating the capacity of a pavement to carry traffic

before the onset of structural failure or before the pavement deteriorates to
a defined terminal condition.
structural number (SN)
A pavement strength parameter, developed during the AASHO Road Test.

SN describes the structural capacity of a pavement in a single number,
regardless of the details of the materials in the pavement. SN is related to
the change in cumulative traffic loading and functional condition of the
pavement. In use within the pavement design process in the United States,
used in Australasia within pavement asset management.
Also see adjusted structural number (SNP) and modified structural number
(SNC).
styrene-butadiene rubber
(SBR)
An elastomeric polymer used in the modification of bitumen, the polymer

backbone of which is made up of randomly distributed styrene and
butadiene monomers. Also known as synthetic rubber.
styrene-butadiene-styrene
(SBS)
An elastomeric polymer used in the modification of bitumen, the polymer

backbone of which is made up by joining polystyrene, polybutadiene and
polystyrene polymer blocks in either a linear or radial formation.
sub-arterial road
Road connecting arterial roads to areas of development, and carrying traffic

directly from one part of a region to another.
subassembly (RMS ITS)
A unit assembled separately but designed to be incorporated with other

units into a larger product.
subbase
The material laid on the subgrade below the base either for the purpose of
making up additional pavement thickness required, to prevent intrusion of
the subgrade into the base, or to provide a working platform.
sub-dominant stream
The traffic stream(s) or lane(s) at a multi-lane entry to a roundabout which

has less flow than that of the 'dominant' lane at that entry. (i.e. any or all
lanes other than the 'dominant' lane).
subgrade
The trimmed or prepared portion of the formation on which the pavement is

constructed. Generally taken to relate to the upper line of the formation.
subgrade design strength
The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) ascribed to the subgrade for the
purpose of predicting the behaviour of a superimposed pavement. It is
assigned after considering the significance of all layers in the formation.
subgrade drain
A subsoil drain to drain water from the subgrade.
subgrade surface
The surface of the formation, excluding batter slopes, upon which the
carriageway is constructed.
subsidence
A downward movement resulting from displacement of the underlying

material.
subsoil drain (subsurface

drain)
A drain below the ground surface, the lower portion, or all of which collects
subsurface water throughout its length.
subsoil water
Free water lying below the watertable and able to move under gravity.
substructure
In a bridge, the piers and abutments (including wing walls) which support
the superstructure.
subsystem
A combination of sets or groups of components which performs an
(RMS ITS)
operational function within a system and is a major subdivision of the

system.
subway
A structure constructed to permit the passage of pedestrians, cycles or

stock beneath the road or railway or vehicles beneath the railway.
Term
Definition
summit curve
A convex vertical curve in a longitudinal profile of the road.
sump
1.
A concrete pit at the end of a water channel to settle out solids before the
flow enters a pipe drain. Also known as catch pit and mud tank.
2.
A hole or depression into which water is drained.
sun phantom
The internal reflection of light from external sources (especially the sun)
onto the lens of a signal lantern which makes it appear to be internally
illuminated.
superelevation
A slope on a curved pavement selected so as to enhance forces assisting a

vehicle to maintain a circular path.
superelevation
development length
The length over which the crossfalls on a carriageway are gradually

changed from normal crossfall to full superelevation crossfall.
superelevation run-off
That part of superelevation development that goes from flat crossfall to full
superelevation crossfall (on the outside of the curve, when there are
segments rotating either side of the axis of rotation).
superstructure
That part of a bridge structure which is supported by the piers and

abutments.
supplementary signal
Any traffic signal showing the same aspect as the primary signal, oriented
towards the same traffic but which is not separately classified as primary,
secondary or tertiary.
supply management
Seeking to meet the demand for travel by supplying new infrastructure or

increasing the capacity of existing infrastructure.
Also see travel demand management.
suppressed traffic
Reduction in traffic volume resulting from a change in traffic arrangements.
surface (asphalt)
The surface of an existing asphalt pavement is planed, milled or heated in

place. In the latter case, the pavement may be scarified, remixed, re-laid
and rolled. Additionally: bitumens, softening agents, aggregates or
combinations of these may be added to obtain desirable mixture and
surface characteristics. The finished product may be used as the final
surface.
surface box
A box which provides access to services buried in a pavement or berm.
surface enrichment
A light application of bituminous binder, without aggregate. It is used to

increase the binder content, and extend the life, of a bituminous road
surfacing.
surface profile
A two-dimensional representation of the pavement surface shape

measured normal to the surface plane and recorded spatially at equal
intervals along the direction of traffic flow.
surface rejuvenation
A light application of an emulsified fraction of a bituminous binder. It is used

to extend the life of a bituminous road surfacing.
surface texture
A condition parameter to characterise the average height between peaks

and troughs in the pavement surface. Macrotexture depth is usually the
reported condition parameter for surface texture.
surface texture deficiency
A general term for defects manifested by reductions in macrotexture and

microtexture, loss of surfacing materials, flushing, polishing, ravelling,
stripping and delamination.
surface water channel
A channel (usually vee-shaped and approximately 2 m wide) running

adjacent to the shoulder or feather edge. The channel takes run-off from
the road and prevents ground water from entering the pavement layers.
Term
Definition
surfacing (wearing surface)
That part of the pavement or bridge deck specifically designed to resist

abrasion from traffic and to minimise the entry of water.
surge
The acceleration of a vehicle along its longitudinal axis.
surge bins
Silos attached to an asphalt mixing plant to hold aggregate or mix for a

short time only and to even out plant output.
surrounding road network
The part of the road network that extends outwards beyond the parking
facility in all directions.
survey
Work performed to record features that describe part of the earths surface
and present the information as a plan.
Survey of Motor Vehicle

Usage (SMVU)
A statistical product from Australian Bureau of Statistics.
survey reference
Relates a particular survey measurement to a specific survey.
survey station
see census station
survey zone
Subdivision of the study area which is used during the data collection
phase of the study.
suspension
sustainable safety
1.
A system of springs, shock absorbers and linkages that connects a vehicle

to its wheels.
Also see air suspension system.
2.
Fine particles which do not settle in a column of water.

The concept of Sustainable Safety was developed by SWOV in the
Netherlands. Its aim is to prevent (serious) crashes, and where this is not
possible, to practically exclude the chances of severe injury. Sustainable
Safety has five main principles:
functionality of roads
homogeneity of mass, speed, and direction
recognisability of the road design and predictability of the road course
and road user behaviour
forgivingness of the environment (physical) and between road users
(social)
fitness to drive awareness by the road user.
sustainable transport
Meeting the needs of society to move without sacrificing other essential

human or ecological requirements.
SVC
see stored value card
swale
An open vegetated drainage channel or shallow troughlike depression

designed to carry, detain, partly treat and promote the filtration of
stormwater run-off.
Sweating the Asset
A set of management imperatives to maximise the value from assets.
sweeping
The removal of loose material from a pavement by means of a broom.
sweepings
Material removed by sweeping; usually refers to chips.
swept path
The area bounded by lines traced by the extremities of the bodywork of a

vehicle while turning.
swept width
The radial distance between the innermost and outermost turning paths of
a vehicle.
Term
Definition
Sydney Coordinated
Adaptive Traffic System
(SCATS)
A well-known fully-adaptive wide area control system developed in

Australia and used in many cities around the world.
synchronous linking
see cableless linking
system (RMS ITS)
A composite of equipment, and personnel with skills and methods capable

of performing or supporting an operational role or both and accomplishing a
function or set of functions. A complete system includes all equipment,
related facilities, material, software, services and personnel required for its
operation and support to the degree that it can be considered self-sufficient
in its intended operational environment.
system architecture
Comprises three layers of architecture: reference architecture, logical

architecture, and physical architecture.
Also see reference architecture, logical architecture and physical
architecture.
system boundary (RMS ITS)
A boundary that defines the set of entities within the system. Entities within
the system boundary constitute definition of the system.
System Integration Tests

(SIT) (RMS ITS)
Tests to verify a component or subsystem's interactions with other

components or subsystems as part of an integrated system. It is conducted
after each component or subsystem has already passed individual tests.
systematic failure (RMS ITS)
Failure related in a deterministic way to a certain cause, which can only be

eliminated by a modification of the design or of the manufacturing process,
operational procedures, documentation or other relevant factors.
failure, random failure, safe failure mode, secondary failure and single point
of failure
system designer
Refers to companies, government agencies and individuals within these

who influence the design of the road network and the way in which it is
used, including all elements of the road, the roadside and the design and
choice of vehicles.
system width (road safety

barrier)
The front to back dimension of a road safety barrier including its supporting
posts, etc. This dimension should be less than the working width so that the
system will not impact the hazard (see working width).
table drain
A longitudinal drain, parallel to the road, which conveys run-off from the
road to offlet drains. It is an alternative to a kerb and channel system in a
residential street.
tack coat
A light application of a bituminous material without cover aggregate, to a

prepared base as a preliminary treatment to promote surface adhesion,
without penetration of the pavement surface.
tactile linework
This is the same as tactile edge lines or tactile line markings. These are
lines that give a rumbling effect when driven upon (through vehicle
vibration). Sometimes they are referred to as audio-tactile lines or linework
as they also provide a humming noise. These types of line marking are
designed to gain driver alertness should the vehicle drift off the road.
Term
Definition
tactile treatments
Low bumps, buttons, bars, grooves or strips closely spaced across or

immediately adjacent to a street or path that draw attention to a feature or
hazard, and can have a vibratory and/or audible effect when travelled over.
They are often used as supplementary treatments, as part of a suite of risk
reduction measures, e.g. in combination with warning and regulatory signs,
entry statements, shared zones and other LATM treatments.
tail swing
The maximum lateral distance that the outer rearmost point on a vehicle
unit moves outwards, perpendicular to its initial and final orientation, when
the vehicle commences and completes a small-radius turn at low-speed.
tamp
To compact a loose material by repeated blows.
tamper
A device for tamping. Specific versions are known as hand tamper (a rod
with a square or circular foot), air tamper (driven by compressed air) and
automotive tamper (informally called a wacker).
tandem axle group
An axle group of at least two axles, in which the horizontal distance

between the centrelines of the outermost axles is at least 1.0 m, but not
more than 2.0 m.
tangent point
The point on the centreline where straight and curve meet tangentially.
tangent run-out
The length of roadway required to accomplish the change in crossfall from

a normal crown section to a flat crossfall at the same rate as the
superelevation run-off.
taper
Shape of merge or diverge.
tar
A viscous solid, semi-solid or liquid material, black in colour and having

adhesive properties, which is typically obtained by the destructive
distillation of coal, wood or shale.
tare mass
see unloaded mass
target board
The panel attached to a signal face to improve its visibility by reducing

background luminance.
T-beam
A load-bearing structure (usually reinforced concrete) with a T-shaped

cross-section.
technical life (RMS ITS)
The minimum time period of an asset that it is designed to function and be

maintained. This is usually expressed in terms of hours or load cycles.
After this time the asset would be retired and overhauled or disposed of.
Also see economic life, design life, and useful life.
temperature susceptibility
A high temperature susceptibility indicates a large change in viscosity with

temperature. Normally a low change (low temperature susceptibility) is
desirable at service temperatures.
temporary diversion
A signed route to avoid temporary obstruction, road closure, etc.
temporary hazard warning

signs
A range of signs used to indicate temporary conditions that require caution

or special action, and indicating the particular reason for such caution or
action.
temporary raised pavement

markers
Self-adhesive pavement markers moulded in a single piece of flexible

plastic or rubber, with vertical and horizontal sections, in which the
retroreflective element is protected from bitumen spray by a plastic cover.
temporary road safety

barrier
A road safety barrier that is readily removable and used at roadworks,

emergencies or similar situations.
tender mix
A mix which exhibits significant displacement during compaction.
Term
Definition
tendon
A tension element usually made up of a number of steel strands or wires,

used in concrete members, to impart prestress.
terminal
End of a transport route, regardless of whether special facilities exist for

turning vehicles, handling passengers or freight.
terminal (road safety

barrier)
A device designed to treat the end of a road safety barrier. The terminal
may function by decelerating a vehicle to a safe stop within a relatively
short distance, or permit controlled penetration of the vehicle behind the
device, or contain and redirect the vehicle, or a combination of these
performance characteristics.
terminal time
Variable used in the calibration of distribution models to represent the time

required to park or unpark and the addition of the time required to start or
end a trip. This variable is excluded from the network.
terminating road
For a T-intersection means: if a road (except a road-related area) at the

intersection is designated by traffic signs or road markings, or in another
way, as a road that ends at the intersection that road; or in any other
case a road (except a road-related area) that ends at the intersection.
terminus
Start or finishing point of the route of a particular service at which ticket or

route waybill forms are completed.
terrain
Topography of the land.

1.
Level terrain is that condition where road sight distances, as governed by

both horizontal and vertical restrictions, are generally long or could be
made to be so without construction difficulty or major expense.
2.
Undulating terrain is that condition where road sight distance is

occasionally governed by both horizontal and vertical restrictions with some
construction difficulty and major expense but with only minor speed
reduction.
3.
Rolling terrain is that condition where the natural slopes consistently rise
above and fall below the road grade and where occasional steep slopes
offer some restriction to normal horizontal and vertical roadway alignment.
The steeper grades cause trucks to reduce speed below those of cars.
4.
Mountainous terrain is that condition where longitudinal and transverse

changes in the elevation of the ground with respect to the road are abrupt
and where benching and side hill excavation are frequently required to
obtain acceptable horizontal and vertical alignment. Mountainous terrain
causes some trucks to operate at crawl speeds.
tertiary signal
A traffic signal that is located on the far left side of the controlled area (see
secondary signal and primary signal).
tertiary signal face
The signal face mounted on a post on the downstream side to the left of the
approach (see primary signal face, secondary signal face).
test, testing (RMS ITS)
To verify performance through measurement of characteristics comparing

those characteristics with prescribed requirements, specifications or
standards.
test road
Controlled loading applied to a section of an in-service experimental road.
test track
Controlled linear or circular loading applied to a short section of test

pavement constructed in a pit or trough or to a test pavement constructed
off-road using normal construction procedures.
texture (NZ)
Irregularities in the pavement surface classified into three groups by their

size.
Term
texture depth
Definition
1.
The average height of aggregate and sand particles above the binder in an
asphalt surfacing.
2.
The average height of aggregate particles above the binder in a sprayed

seal.
theoretical capacity
The maximum number of vehicles that can pass a given point on a lane or
carriageway during one hour under the prevailing carriageway and traffic
conditions, regardless of their effect in delaying drivers and restricting their
freedom to manoeuvre.
thermoplastic road
markers/marking
Roadmarking where the material, which consists of binder, pigment,

aggregate, glass beads and extenders, is applied to the road in a heatsoftened state, which then hardens on cooling.
thin layer hot mixed

bituminous friction course
A thin asphalt wearing course with relatively high voids, usually laid on a
heavy application of polymer modified bituminous emulsion.
three-centred curve
A compound curve consisting of three successive circular arcs.
threshold distress values
Measures of pavement condition that are designated as the maximum

distress for each distress type beyond which pavement performance
becomes unpredictable on a given type or class of road without the
imposition of constraints on road users such as load or speed limits.
threshold treatment
A treatment of an intersection to discourage through or heavy traffic.
thrie-beam
A triple corrugated steel rail road safety barrier supported on steel posts.
through (traffic control)
A work area with traffic over the area being worked on.
through by-passable traffic
Term normally used to refer to short distance traffic that can be diverted
without significant time or distance penalties.
through car units
A measure used in signal design calculation involving the conversion of

each unit of turning traffic and truck or bus traffic into its equivalent in terms
of through passenger cars, and the summation of these together with
actual through passenger cars for an approach.
through lane
A lane provided for the use of vehicles proceeding straight ahead.
through phasing
Phasing that allows through and left turn movements and filter right turns
from opposing approaches to operate in the same phase using the threeaspect circular (red, yellow, green) signal faces.
through traffic
Traffic with neither an origin nor a destination within the local area.
Depending on the definition of the local area, this may not be traffic which
diverts between two arterials.
through trip
Trip that starts and ends outside the study area, but that passes through
the study area.
tidal flow
A means of increasing capacity under conditions of high traffic volume and

marked directional split by means of reversible lanes or carriageways.
tie bar
Tie bars prevent separation of the pavement at longitudinal joints, whilst

allowing warping or curling to occur without excessive restraint. Tie bars
are typically 12 mm in diameter, Grade 500N deformed steel bars, 1 m
long, placed centrally in the joint.
tied shoulder
A concrete shoulder made of the same concrete and the same thickness as
the base pavement. It is formed, debonded and nominally tied to the base
pavement. It is a minimum of 1.4 m wide.
Term
Definition
time-distance diagram
A graphical representation of the movement of a vehicle or traffic stream in

terms of its time and distance coordinates, e.g. used to show signal
coordination along a route or for showing vehicles queuing at traffic signals.
time mean speed
see average spot speed
time occupancy ratio
The proportion of time in a given period when the passage or occupancy

detector at a point along the road is occupied by vehicles.
time of concentration
The shortest time necessary for all points on a catchment area to contribute
simultaneously to run-off at a specified point.
time of operation
The clock time within a day, the days of the week or other calendar times
during which a sign applies.
timing plan
A plan that defines the cycle time, green splits and offsets for each
intersection in a coordinated signal system.
T-intersection
see T-junction
title alignment
see property line
T-junction (T-intersection)
A junction in which one road terminates approximately at right angles to a

through-road.
TMAP
see transport management and accessibility plan
TOD
see transit oriented development
toe
1.
The part of the base of a retaining wall which is on the side remote from the
retained material.
2.
Also the tip of a pile and the base of an earthen slope.
toe drain
An interceptor drain constructed along the bottom of a batter to collect

batter run-off.
toe wall
A low retaining wall constructed at the foot of an earth slope.
tolerable deflection
The maximum acceptable deflection under a specified load which a given

pavement may exhibit if the pavement is to achieve a specified number of
load repetitions satisfactorily.
tolerable risk
A risk level that society can live with to secure certain net benefits. A level
that is not regarded as negligible or as something to ignore, but kept under
review with a view to reducing it still further if possible.
toll
Fee or charge for the use of a road or bridge.
toll road
A road, bridge or tunnel available to traffic only upon payment of a toll or fee.
tollway
A freeway, for the use of which a toll has to be paid.
top course (surface course)
A pavement layer constructed on top of the basecourse layer. This layer is

constructed of material with a smaller top size than the basecourse layer.
toppings
Fine material from rock crushing, usually including dust passing a 4.75 mm
sieve.
total asset management

(TAM) (RMS ITS)
An integrated approach to asset management which integrates strategic,

design and operations and maintenance activities, processes and
outcomes to achieve optimum economic and operational performance of
an asset.
total travel time (TTT)
Sum of travel times on all the road segments on a route.
Term
tow truck (NHVR)
Definition
1.
A heavy motor vehicle that is

a) equipped with a crane, winch, ramp or other lifting device; and
b) used or intended to be used for the towing of motor vehicles; or
2.
A heavy motor vehicle to which is attached, temporarily or otherwise, a

trailer or device that is
a) equipped with a crane, winch, ramp or other lifting device; and
b) used or intended to be used for the towing of motor vehicles.
town planning
Management of changes in the urban environment through guidelines and

regulations.
tracking ability on a straight

path
The total swept width while travelling on a straight path, including the
influence of variations due to road crossfall, road surface unevenness and
driver steering activity.
track width
Transverse dimension at the road between the centrelines of the tyres for
an axle with two tyres, or that transverse dimension at the road between
the midpoints of dual wheel assemblies.
tractor (NHVR)
A motor vehicle used for towing purposes, other than

(a) a motor vehicle designed to carry goods or passengers; or
(b) a tow truck
Also see prime mover.
traffic
A generic term covering all vehicles, people, and animals using a road.
traffic-actuated control
A control method that allows a variable sequence and variable duration of

signal displays depending on vehicle and pedestrian traffic demands. All
vehicle movements (phases) are actuated in 'fully-actuated control' in
contrast with 'semi-actuated control' where only minor vehicle movements
(e.g. side road traffic) are actuated.
traffic-actuated controller
A traffic signal controller in which the sequence of aspects and the duration
of intervals vary in accordance with the demands of vehicles and
pedestrian traffic as registered by detectors (see vehicle-actuated traffic
signals).
traffic-actuated signal
A traffic signal in which the changes of aspect are initiated by vehicular or

pedestrian traffic detected approaching the controlled area.
traffic arrow
A green, white or red traffic arrow, or a yellow traffic arrow (whether or not
flashing).
traffic assignment
Process of allocating trips onto existing or planned routes available on the

road or public transport network. Assignment may be based on one or more
factors known to influence route selection, e.g. travel time, distance, cost.
traffic assignment zone
Subdivision of the study area represented by a centroid.
traffic barrier railing
A railing usually fabricated from steel, consisting of one or more rails, with
posts, positioned on a reinforced concrete barrier/plinth designed to restrict
the lateral movement of vehicles.
traffic calming
In general, the reduction of the motor vehicles intrusion into and impacts
upon urban life, by moderating the quantity, speed or other characteristics
of vehicular traffic; commonly and more specifically (when in relation to
local streets) analogous to LATM.
traffic census
see traffic count
traffic composition
The proportions (usually expressed as a percentage) of the different types

of vehicles within the total traffic flow.
Term
Definition
traffic control device
Any traffic sign, road marking, traffic signal, or other device, placed or
erected under public authority for the purpose of regulating, directing,
warning or guiding traffic.
traffic control plan (TCP)
A diagram showing temporary signs and devices arranged to warn traffic

and guide it around, past or, if necessary, through a work site or temporary
hazard.
traffic control signal
A device that, by means of changing coloured lights, regulates the

movement of traffic.
traffic count
The process of determining the number of vehicles or pedestrians passing

a given point or points during a specified period of time (see demand flow,
flow rate, traffic volume).
traffic counter
A device that counts and records the number of vehicles.
traffic demand
see demand
traffic density
The number of vehicles, excluding parked vehicles, per unit length of

carriageway at a specified instant in time.
traffic dividers
Devices used on multilane roads to keep traffic in prescribed lanes.
traffic dome
A small raised circular device, used at intersections in a carriageway to

control turning traffic.
traffic engineering
The measurement and study of traffic, the determination of its

characteristics, and the application of the knowledge so gained to
improving the safety, convenience and economy of road transport.
traffic flow
The number of vehicles passing a given point during a specified period of

time (see traffic volume).
traffic forecast
An estimate of future traffic parameters including projected growth rates.
traffic generator
A development or area capable of generating traffic, e.g. shopping

complex, industrial area, car park.
traffic growth factor
A factor used to estimate the percentage annual increase in traffic volume.
traffic guidance scheme
An arrangement of temporary signs and devices to warn traffic and guide it

through or past a works site or temporary hazard.
traffic island
A defined area, usually at an intersection, from which vehicular traffic is

excluded. It is used to control vehicular movements and as a pedestrian
refuge.
traffic lane
A portion of the carriageway allocated for the use of a single line of

vehicles.
traffic lane arrows
A traffic sign, road marking or device that displays arrows indicating one or
more directions and is designed to apply to one or more marked lanes, but
does not include traffic arrows.
traffic lights
A device designed to show a traffic light, or two or more traffic lights in a

vertical arrangement and at different times, and includes any traffic arrows
installed with or near the device.
traffic management
The use of traffic engineering techniques to control the flow of traffic.
traffic median barrier
A device used on multilane roads to keep opposing traffic in prescribed

carriageways.
traffic or vehicle actuated

control
A control method that allows a variable sequence and variable duration of

signal displays depending on vehicle and pedestrian traffic demands.
traffic patterns
The variation of traffic volumes over a period of time.

Term
Definition
traffic planning
Making provision for future traffic and parking conditions.
traffic regulations
Statutory rules in relation to road sure/vehicular requirements, enforceable

by law.
traffic-responsive plan
selection
A signal coordination method that introduces predetermined plans by

means of algorithms that respond to changing traffic conditions using data
collected from detectors.
traffic restraints
Procedure or quantitative term indicating an imposed limitation on the

volume of motor vehicle traffic.
traffic separators
see traffic dividers
traffic sign
A board, plate, screen, or another device, whether or not illuminated,

displaying words, figures, symbols or anything else to regulate, direct or
warn road users (but does not include traffic signals).
traffic signal
A signal that controls vehicle and pedestrian traffic at an intersection or on

a road by means of red, yellow, green or white light displays, and includes
circular and arrow signals, pedestrian signals, bicycle crossing signals, B
(bus) and T (tram) signals, overhead lane control signals, and twin red or
yellow signals.
traffic signal controller
An automatic device that regulates the sequence and duration of the

illumination of aspects.
traffic speed deflectometer

(TSD)
A semi-trailer instrumented with a series of laser sensors within a stiff beam.

These are used to measure the vertical velocity of the pavement at different
distances from the loaded rear axle, while travelling at traffic speed.
traffic statistic
Information related to traffic, e.g. traffic volumes, traffic accidents,

origin/destination data, vehicle occupancy data.
traffic stream
Traffic, usually vehicular, moving in one or more lines in the same direction.
traffic survey
The measurement and study of some aspect of traffic movement.
traffic tally
A small mechanical hand-held device used as an aid in traffic counting.
traffic time
The time between laying a bituminous surfacing and when slow moving
traffic (< 40 km/h) can be allowed onto the surface without permanent
damage.
traffic to date

(ESAs), from the post construction opening to traffic or
rehabilitation/replacement of the pavement to a given date.
traffic volume
The number of vehicles or pedestrians passing a given point on a lane or

carriageway during a specified period of time (see demand flow, flow rate,
traffic count).
traffic zone
see zone
trailer
A vehicle that is built to be towed, or is towed, by a motor vehicle, but does

not include a motor vehicle that is being towed.
trailing point of need
In relation to a roadside hazard, the last point at which the road safety
barrier is needed to prevent an errant vehicle from striking the hazard (see
point of need).
trailing right turn
see lagging right turn
trailing terminal
The terminal treatment at the departure end of a road safety barrier in the
direction of travel in the adjacent traffic lane (see terminal).
Term
Definition
trajectory diagram
Graph showing the movement of a vehicle (or vehicles) along a length of

road over a given period.
transit
The act or fact of passing across or through; passage from one place to
another.
transition
Transition length for increasing or decreasing the number of lanes.
transition (road safety

barrier)
The connection of two road safety barriers of different designs and/or

performances.
transition curve
A curve of varying radius used to model the path of a vehicle as it enters or

leaves a curve of constant radius used for the purpose of easing the
change in direction.
transition length for

alignment
The distance within which the alignment is changed in approach from

straight to a horizontal curve of constant radius.

crossfall
The distance required rotating the pavement crossfall from normal to that
appropriate to the curve. Also called superelevation development length.

widening
The distance over which the pavement width is changed from normal to
that appropriate to the curve.
transit lane
A traffic lane set aside for the use of buses, motorcycles, taxis, turning
vehicles and vehicles carrying a specified minimum number of occupants.
transit network
see public transport network
transit nodes
see public transport nodes
transit oriented
development (TOD)
Mixed-use land development built around inter-modal public transport

nodes including pedestrian and cycling facilities.
Also see activity centre.
transponder
A device fitted to a bus, tram or emergency vehicle that allows the signal
controller to selectively identify the presence of that vehicle in a stream of
mixed traffic.
transport corridor
Land use dedicated to use by a transport mode, e.g. rail, road.
transport management and

accessibility plan (TMAP)
A comprehensive assessment of the transport impacts, addressing both the

movement of people and goods, of a major site development or redevelopment proposal including the identification of a package of
appropriate measures that will help to manage the demand for travel.
transport planning
Planning of the operations and development of transport including the

efficient and equitable allocation of resources.
transport study
Analysis and synthesis of a specific transport problem. Usually involves

data collection, analysis, forecasting, evaluation and recommendation.
transport system
Sum of the interacting components that constitute a system for the purpose
of transporting passengers and/or goods.
transverse crack
A crack at right angles to the road centreline.
transverse profile
The shape of a pavement surface measured as vertical distances from a

datum perpendicular to traffic flow.
travelator
A mechanical device for moving pedestrians horizontally, usually in the

form of a moving footpath or 'endless belt' type arrangement.
Term
Definition
travel condition (NHVR)
A condition directed at ensuring that access to a stated route or area is

limited to either or both of the following
a) stated days or hours (or both);
b) travel in a stated direction.
travel demand
management
Intervention (excluding provision of major infrastructure) to modify travel

decisions so that more desirable transport, social, economic and/or
environmental objectives can be achieved, and the adverse impacts of
travel can be reduced.
Also see supply management.
travel model
System of mathematical relationships which can be used to estimate the

volume and distribution of travel likely to occur in a given set of
circumstances.
travel speed
The representative (usually 85th percentile) speed of traffic at a site.
travel time
Time required to travel between two points.
travel time ratio
Travel time between points of choice by a freeway route divided by the

travel time between the same points by a non-freeway route used in a
diversion assignment.
travel time survey
Survey designed to obtain data on travel times over selected traffic routes.
traverse
A survey consisting a continuous series of connected straight lines, the

lengths and bearings of which are measured. When the lines form a
complete circuit or lie between two known points it is termed a closed
traverse; otherwise it is termed an open traverse.
travelled path
That part of the carriageway made available to vehicles and which may
consist of one or more running lanes.
travelled way
That portion of a carriageway ordinarily assigned to moving traffic, and

exclusive of shoulders and parking lanes.
traveller information
system
Information provided to travellers to facilitate their travel, such as variable

message signs, travel time information, and mobile applications using realtime data.
treated surfaces
A general term referring to the surfaces of bound pavements, primer sealed

bound pavements or previously sealed pavements.
treatment
A general term which covers all types of physical actions (including

devices) to manage traffic and/or adapt the street environment at the local
level.
triangular trip table
Matrix of zone-to-zone trips between each pair of zones non-directionally,

normally in the low-to-high direction only (see square trip table).
triaxial test
A test to determine the stress-strain properties of a pavement material in

which a cylindrical specimen of the material is subjected to a three
dimensional stress system; the axial strain is measured for various levels of
applied stress.
triaxle group
An axle group of at least three axles, in which the horizontal distance

between the centrelines of the outermost axles is more than 2.0 m, but not
more than 3.2 m.
trim
To finish off earthworks accurately to the desired shape.
Term
trip
Definition
1.
One-way movement from one place to another for a particular purpose (see
journey). Note: Care is required in applying this general definition. In
particular, the definition of purpose will affect the way in which person,
vehicle or commodity movements are classified into trips. In travel surveys,
the purpose set often includes change mode and serve passenger, thus
making a trip correspond to a movement by only one mode. Movements for
these purposes have been varyingly termed legs, segments or unlinked
trips, in transport planning practice. For analyses, trips are often linked,
thus making a trip embrace more than one mode and/or lower order
purpose.
2.
In public vehicle operations, the movement by one vehicle or unit in one

direction from the start of a route to the end of it.
trip attraction
trip distribution
Total number of trips made to a particular destination.

1.
The geographical distribution of trips.
2.
The process by which the total number of trips is converted to individual

zone-to-zone movements.
trip distribution model
Mathematical relationship used to distribute trips between zones on the

basis of certain parameters such as spatial separation and relative
attractiveness.
trip end
The unit used to express the total number of trip productions and
attractions, which can also be used in relation to trip origin or destination.
trip end summary
Summary of the total number of trips entering a zone and leaving a zone.
These equal the row and column totals of a trip table.
trip factor
Number of trips represented by the trip record in which the trip factor
appears. Basically it is the ratio of dwelling units to the interviewed dwelling
units or a similar ratio of vehicles. It may be modified to offset a poor
screenline check.
trip generation
1.
Number of trips produced or attracted to a zone.
2.
Process by which the numbers of such trips are calculated in a model (see
trip-generation model).
trip generation model
Mathematical model of trip generation based on the premise that trips

generated by a zone will be related to the land-use parameters of that
zone.
trip length frequency

distribution
Histogram showing the number of trips or the percentage of trips made at

various trip time or distance intervals.
trip production
Total number of trips made from one origin.
trip production and

attraction
The production end of a home-based trip is the home end of the trip, and
the attraction end the non-residential end. Non-home-based trips are
assumed to be produced in the origin zone and attracted to the destination
zone.
Term
Definition
trip records
Survey-derived trip information and related information. The data for each
surveyed trip are recorded in one trip record (see trip). Comprehensive
surveys, depending on the degree of detail required, can produce the
following types of trip records:
1.
Dwelling unit summary: a summary of trips and related information regarding

the occupants of one dwelling unit.
2.
External trip record: contains the information describing one trip by a vehicle
that has crossed the external cordon line.
3.
Internal trip record: contains information describing one trip by a resident of

the survey area, and also contains certain information regarding the person
making the trip.
4.
Truck trip record: contains the information describing one trip by a truck
registered or garaged in the survey area.
trip table
Matrix of the number of journeys between zones. Usually stored in binary

computer files in one of several standard formats.
triple road train
see A-triple
troubleshooting (RMS ITS)
A form of problem solving, which may be applied to repair failed

components or assets. It is a logical, systematic search for the root cause
of a failure or problem so that it can be solved, and the component or asset
can be made operational again.
truck
A motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes, except a bus, tram or tractor.
truck route
Signposted route defined as being the most suitable for heavy transport
and aiming to exclude commercial and residential areas.
trumpet interchange
An interchange at a T-junction, generally providing interchange ramps for

all movements.
truss
A framed structure comprised of steel or timber which acts as a beam.
TTT
see total travel time
turn
1.
In the traffic assignment loading process, a movement from a link to another

link, which is identified by the node numbers comprising the two links.
2.
In tree building, a movement between links of different signs (see turn penalty).
turning circle
turning lane
The diameter of the circle traced by the outside edge of the outermost front
wheel of a vehicle turning on full lock, equivalent to twice the turning radius
of the design vehicle.
1.
An auxiliary lane reserved for turning traffic.
2.
A storage and/or speed change lane reserved for turning traffic.
turning lines
Painted within intersections to guide traffic along the most desirable turning
path.
turning markings
Pavement markings provided to control or guide turning traffic at

intersections and junctions.
turning movement
The number of vehicles observed to make a particular turning movement

(left or right turn, or through movement) at an intersection over a specified
period.
turning movement count
A traffic count at an intersection during which all turning movements are

recorded.
turning path
The path of a designated point on a vehicle making a specified turn.
Term
Definition
turning path diagram
A scale diagram showing the path of both the outside of the outermost
wheel of a vehicle making a turn of specified angle and specified radius
measured to the outermost wheel.
turn line
A road marking, at an intersection, consisting of a line (whether broken or

continuous) that is designed to indicate how a turn is to be made at the
intersection.
turn penalty
The time added to the total travel time of a trip when a turn is made in the
network, which accounts for delays when turning (see turn).
turn prohibitor
Data record, similar to a link record, that instructs the tree building program
to prohibit a particular movement at an intersection.
turntable
Rotating device normally used as part of a trailer or between a semi-trailer

and towing vehicle with the semi-trailer not readily detachable from the
towing vehicle. It includes the upper and lower rotating elements.
twelve-hour volume
The 12-hour volume on a road is the number of vehicles passing an

observation point over a given 12-hour interval during a day.
twin steer/twinsteer axle

group
A group of two axles with single tyres fitted to a motor vehicle and
connected to the same steering mechanism; the horizontal distance
between the centrelines is at least 1 m, but not more than 2 m.
two-up driving arrangement
An arrangement under which two persons share the driving of a fatigueregulated heavy vehicle that has an approved sleeper berth.
(NHVR)
two-way carriageway
A carriageway having running lanes allotted for use by traffic in opposing

directions.
typical cross-section
A cross-section of a carriageway showing typical dimensional details,

furniture locations and features of the pavement construction.
tyre mass
The mass transmitted to the road by a tyre.
U-beam
A load-bearing structure (usually reinforced concrete) with an inverted

U-shaped cross-section.
ultra thin asphalt
Asphalt mixes particularly developed for placing in thin layers (<25 mm).
unavailability (RMS ITS)
Unavailability is the probability that an item will not operate correctly at a

given time and under specified conditions. It opposes availability. Defined
mathematically, unavailability is 1 minus the availability.
unbound base
A base comprised of granular or mechanically stabilised materials and

without the capacity to resist significant tensile stresses.
unconfined compressive
strength (UCS)
The compressive strength of laboratory specimens at 28 days.
undercroft parking
The parking space below the lowest floor of the building, which is elevated
and usually open on one or more sides.
underpass
1.
A grade separation where the subject carriageway passes under an

intersecting carriageway or railway (see grade separation and overpass).
2.
A tunnel constructed for the use of pedestrians, cyclists and/or stock.
underpinning
The support of a structure from underneath during repairs or strengthening

operations.
undivided road
A road without a median (see divided road).
Term
Definition
unified soil classification

(USC)
Classification of soil on the basis of its texture and liquid limit. The system
comprises 15 soil groups, each identified by a two-letter symbol, the first
symbol representing the type of soil and the second symbol indicating the
plasticity of the soil.
uninterrupted flow
Condition of traffic flow on a road in which there are no factors external to

the traffic stream which affect its flow.
unit (RMS ITS)
An entity of hardware or software capable of accomplishing a specified

purpose.
unlinked trip
Journey, or part of a journey, for a single purpose, using only one mode of
travel.
unloaded mass
The mass of a vehicle in running order, equipped with all standard

equipment and with all fuel and other fluid reservoirs filled to nominal
capacity, but unoccupied and without any other load. This term is now used
if preference to tare mass.
unopposed turn
A left turn or right turn movement at a signalised intersection that is made

with no opposing or conflicting vehicular or pedestrian flow allowed.
unreliability (RMS ITS)
The probability that an item of equipment will not perform its intended
mission over a given period, assuming that the item is used within the
conditions for which it was designed. The opposite of reliability.
unsealed shoulder
That portion of the carriageway, located between the edge of seal and the
shoulder hinge point, having a slope generally no steeper than 12:1, except
on curves where the superelevation may increase the slope.
unserviceable (RMS ITS)
A state in which an asset or component is not in working order or capable

of fulfilling its function adequately or is otherwise unfit for use.
Also see serviceability.
unsprung mass
That portion of a vehicle which is not isolated from the track by the
secondary suspension system.
upgrade (RMS ITS)
An activity which involves raising an assets functionality, capabilities

and/or performance characteristics to a higher standard by adding or
replacing components.
upside-down pavement
A pavement in which a stronger layer underlies a weaker layer; for

example, a cement-stabilised subbase overlain by an unstabilised granular
base.
upstream
The direction along a carriageway from which the vehicle flow under
consideration has come.
urban arterial road
A road that provides the main basis for public and private movements of
persons and goods in urban areas (see arterial road).
urban logistics
see city logistics
urban traffic control system
see wide area control system
useful life (RMS ITS)
May be expressed as either:

a) The period over which a depreciable asset is expected to be used; or
b) The number of production or similar units (i.e. intervals, cycles) that is
expected to be obtained from the asset.
Also see economic life, design life and technical life.
utilities
see services
Term
Definition
utility of travel
Measure of satisfaction as perceived by the transport user, which is used

in economic analyses and in modelling to measure benefits that people
perceive from a transportation system.
utility services
Services such as gas, water, electricity, telephone, sewer and stormwater.
U-turn
A turn made on the carriageway usually without reversing the vehicle

resulting in reversal of direction of travel.
see approach speed
V85 (85th percentile

speed)
The speed at or below which 85% of vehicles are observed to travel under
free flowing conditions past a nominated point.
VA
see vehicle actuated
validation
Confirmation, through the provision of objective evidence, that

requirements for a specific intended use or application have been fulfilled.
validation test
A standardised procedure to test the validity of test results from a

measuring device.
valuation of assets
The process of attributing a cost to an asset, for the purpose of recognising

the asset in the corporate financial statements.
value management
A structured, analytical process to assist in project evaluation at the

concept and design stages, by carefully defining project objectives,
considering a range of alternative options for achieving the essential
objectives, and relating achievement to cost, so that the investment returns
are maximised.
van pooling
Pre-arranged ride-sharing of a vehicle trip for the purpose of commuting to

a common place of employment. The vehicle is usually provided by the
employer (see car-pooling).
variable message sign

(VMS)
Variable message signs can be changed to display information messages

to alert drivers of on-road incidences on the road ahead. They are also
used to warn road users about weather conditions and other important
information.
variable speed limit (VSL)
Variable speed limits are speed limits that change based on road, traffic,
and weather conditions. They are usually illuminated using LEDs.
variable speed limit sign

(VSLS)
Electronic display speed signs that can be varied as conditions change.
vehicle
Term encompassing motorised and wheeled road transport options,

including trams, bicycles, animal-drawn transport and motorised
wheelchairs with a speed over 10 km/h. Trains, and other types of
wheelchairs and wheeled recreational devices are not included.
vehicle activated sign

(VAS)
Vehicle activated signs are typically roadside digital signs that display a
message when they are approached by a motorist exceeding the speed
limit or going too fast for the type of road, especially when there is a
hazard, e.g. a bend or intersection.
vehicle actuated (VA)
Responsive to, and actuated by, information collected by vehicle detectors.
vehicle-actuated control
vehicle-actuated traffic
signals
Traffic signals in which the phasing varies in accordance with the detected
presence of vehicles on the signal approaches (see traffic-actuated
controller).
Term
vehicle availability
Definition
1.
Whether or not a person has a vehicle available for a particular trip.
2.
Number of vehicles normally available for use by members of a household,

including government or company cars.
3.
Percentage of time for which a scheduled vehicle is available for use to carry
passengers or commodities.
vehicle classification
A system used to classify vehicles by type. For example, Austroads uses a

12 Class system ranging from sedans and other light vehicles (Class 1) to
triple road trains (Class 12).
vehicle combination
Combination of a motor vehicle and one or more trailers.
vehicle condition (NHVR)
A condition directed at ensuring a vehicle can operate safely on roads.

Note: Vehicle conditions can be imposed by the Regulator or requested by
a road manager when authorising access.
vehicle controller
This term is used frequently in crash databases to refer to a person

operating a motorised vehicle such as a car, truck, motorcycle, or train etc.
but can also refer to persons operating or 'controlling' non-motorised
vehicles such as bicycles and horses. The term 'vehicle controller' has also
been used to refer to automated or 'intelligent' vehicle controllers:
computerised systems which, depending on the complexity of the software,
can be programmed to follow a set route to a destination, or use navigation
software to find and follow a route to a destination, respond to various
hazards in the path and seek alternative routes to the destination if their
originally chosen route is impassable.
vehicle crossing
A formed area where vehicles can cross over channel and footpath.
vehicle extension period
The period in traffic-actuated signals during which a continued traffic

demand can retain the green aspect after a demand for another phase has
been registered with the controller and after the initial running period has
been exhausted.
vehicle hours of travel

(VHT)
Total vehicle hours of travel over a road segment or number of road

segments for a certain period, usually a specified year.
vehicle identification
number (VIN)
A number, of 17 characters, permanently attached to the vehicle, which

uniquely identifies that vehicle. This number has to be quoted on the
compliance plate.
vehicle impoundment
Confiscation, usually by police, of a vehicle in response to illegal behaviour

with regards to the vehicle on the part of the vehicle controller or owner. In
addition to any police or court imposed fines, the owner may be required to
pay a fee for the cost of towing and storing their vehicle in order to have it
released.
vehicle kilometres of travel

(VKT)
A measure of traffic demand and is the length of a section of road in

kilometres multiplied by the AADT on it. The yearly VKT is the daily VKT
multiplied by the number of days in that year (365 or 366 days).
Vehicle Movement Code

(VMC)
A New Zealand term for accident type.
vehicle operating costs

(VOC)
A component in road user effects (RUE) calculations, applying to motorised

vehicles. Includes fuel consumption, tyre wear, maintenance and vehicle
depreciation.
vehicle passage time
The time between the passage of the front and back ends of a vehicle from
a given point along the road.
vehicle roll allowance
The lateral distance between the deflected face of a road safety barrier and
the maximum extent of vehicle body roll during impact.
Term
Definition
vehicles per day (VPD)
The number of vehicles observed passing a point on a road in both

directions for 24 hours.
vehicles per lane per day

Vehicle to infrastructure
(V2I or VTI)
see V/L/D
Vehicle to vehicle (V2V or

VTV)
Inter-vehicle communications technology.
vehicle type
Classification of vehicles by type, e.g. car, station wagon, utility, light

commercial vehicle, and the like, and/or by number of axles.
vehicle unit (NHVR)
see component vehicle
verge (Aust.)
That portion of the formation not covered by the carriageway or footpath.
verge (NZ)
The edge of a road reserve between the shoulder hinge point and the legal
road boundary.
vertical alignment
The longitudinal profile along the design line of a road.
vertical curve
A curve (generally parabolic) in the longitudinal profile of a carriageway to

provide for a change of grade at a specified vertical acceleration.
vertical device
Any treatment involving vertical displacement to influence speeds through

ride discomfort (including road humps, raised tables, short lengths of raised
paving, etc.).
vertical force
The vertical load applied to a pavement.
very high friction surfacing
Specialised surface treatments with very high polished stone values.

Generally applied to reduce loss of control in wet weather crashes.
very hungry surface (seal)
A surface condition in which the aggregate is proud of the surface and the
binder is approximately one third of the way up the sides of the aggregate
particles.
vesicular aggregate
Aggregate with small cavities throughout the structure, e.g. pumice, scoria, etc.
viaduct
A long bridge composed of a series of spans, usually over land.
vibrating plate compactor
An automotive machine which compacts by applying vibration to the heavy

metal plate on which it operates.
vibrating roller
A roller using both its mass and a vibrating mechanism to compact the
pavement material.
video incident detection

(VID)
Monitors and processes road traffic images in real time and provides an
incident alarm as soon as it occurs. Operators are immediately alerted and
can launch the incident response process.
viscoelasticity
The combined viscous and elastic response of a material to an applied

stress. This applies notably to bituminous materials, as evidenced by their
combined viscous and elastic response to an applied stress.
viscometer
An instrument for measuring the viscosity of a material.
viscosity
The internal friction in fluids due to molecular cohesion.
Vehicle-to-roadside communications.
Term
Definition
vision zero
On 9 October, 1997 the Road Traffic Safety Bill founded on Vision Zero
was passed by a majority in the Swedish Parliament. It represents a
paradigm shift in road traffic safety and is based on four principles: 1)
ethics - human life and health are paramount and take priority over mobility
and other objectives of the road traffic system; 2) responsibility - providers
and regulators of the road traffic system share responsibility with users; 3)
safety - road traffic systems should take account of human fallibility and
minimise both the opportunities for errors and the harm done when they
occur; and, 4) mechanisms for change - providers and regulators must do
their utmost to guarantee the safety of all citizens; they must cooperate with
road users; and all three must be ready to change to achieve safety. Vision
zero refers to the ultimate goal of zero fatalities on the road.
visor
An attachment to the face of a signal aspect to minimise the sun-phantom

effect and/or to reduce the possibility of a signal being seen by traffic for
which it is not intended.
visual inspection (walkover inspection)
A search for road faults carried out by inspecting the road at walking pace.
V/L/D
A measure of the volume of traffic, expressed as vehicles per lane, per day.
VMC
Vehicle Movement Code

see crash type
VMS
see variable message sign
void content
The ratio of the volume of voids to the total volume of the material,
expressed as a percentage.
void-fill seal (NZ)
An emulsion seal (using grit or small chips) for filling the voids in an existing
coarse textured chip seal surface.
voids
The spaces within the bulk of material not occupied by solid matter.
voids factor (voids ratio)
The percentage of the seal layer thickness to be filled with binder. This is
dependent on traffic.
voids filled by binder (VFB)
The difference between the voids in the mineral aggregate and the voids
content of the compacted asphalt. It is equivalent to the effective binder
content, or the total binder content less the binder absorbed by the
aggregate.
voids in mineral aggregate

(VMA)
The inter-granular void space in a compacted specimen when the volume

of the aggregate is calculated from the bulk density of the aggregate.
volume of traffic
see traffic volume
volumetric loading
Determination of amount of cargo that can be fitted within approved heavy

vehicle trailer size.
volumetric texture
measurement
A manual method usually involving the spreading of a known mass or

volume of sand or glass beads, of a specific grade over the pavement
surface. By dividing the volume of material by the area covered a value is
obtained which represents the average depth of the layer.
VPD
see vehicles per day
VSL
see variable speed limit
VSLS
see variable speed limit sign
Term
Definition
wacker packer
A hand-operated vibratory machine used to compact small areas, e.g. test

holes or pothole repairs.
WAE
see works-as-executed plans
wait time
Time spent waiting for a public transport vehicle.
walk time
Duration of the Walk display (steady green person) for pedestrians.
walkability
A descriptor used to indicate the extent to which the built environment is

regarded as suitable or acceptable for walking.
Walking Profiler
A commercial name for a profilometer with proprietary technology and

international patents.
walk-over inspection
A search for road faults carried out by inspecting the road at walking pace.
warm-mix asphalt
Additives and/or production processes which allow the temperature at

which asphalt mixes can be produced and placed to be reduced typically
by 2050 C below that of hot mix asphalt. The reduction in energy
associated with asphalt production at a lower temperature results in a
reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
warning light (NHVR)
A light fitted to a vehicle designed for the specific purpose of warning road
users of the vehicles presence on a road.
warning sign
1.
A sign indicating that the vehicle to which it is attached is of a particular

type, size or configuration. (NHVR)
2.
A range of signs used to indicate actual or potential hazards to road users

(see permanent hazard warning and temporary hazard warning signs).
warrant
A criterion, usually numerical, used to determine whether the construction

of a traffic facility or the installation of a traffic control device may be justified.
water-cement ratio
The ratio of the weight of water to the weights of the cement in concrete or
mortar.
water content
The quantity of water which can be removed from a material by heating to

105oC until no further significant change in mass occurs, usually expressed
as a percentage of the dry mass.
watering-in
The compaction of sand or quarry dust backfill by flooding with water and
using a concrete vibrator.
waterproofing
The process of rendering surfaces or materials impervious to water.
water sensitive road design
Natural or artificial means of the interception, treatment and removal of

road stormwater run-off to improve the water quality to current best practice
performance objectives.
watertable
The natural level at which water stands in a bore-hole, well, or other

depression, under conditions of equilibrium.
waterway
1.
A channel or stream.
2.
The area available for water to pass through or under a structure.
waterway area
The area of the cross-section of the stream at right angles to the direction
of the flow, up to the assumed flood level.
Watts profile hump
A circular segment road hump with a specific profile designed to slow

vehicles traversing them.
W-beam
A double corrugated steel rail road safety barrier supported on steel posts.
Term
wearing course
Definition
1.
That part of pavement upon which the traffic travels.
2.
That part of the pavement specifically designed to resist abrasion from traffic
and to minimise the entry of water.
wearing surface
That part of the pavement specifically designed to resist abrasion from

traffic and to minimise the entry of water.
weathered
Partly decomposed or otherwise affected by exposure to weather or water.
weaving
The movement in the same general direction of vehicles within two or more
traffic streams intersecting at a small angle so that the vehicles in one
stream cross other streams gradually (see merging).
weaving area
The area of a carriageway in which weaving occurs.
weaving distance
The length of a carriageway in which weaving occurs.
weaving section
The length of one-way carriageway, designed to accommodate weaving, at

one end of which two one-way carriageways merge and at the other end of
which they separate.
web portal (NHVR)
A website that brings together information from diverse sources in a unified

way. Provides a way for enterprises to provide a consistent look and feel
with access control and procedures for multiple applications and
databases.
weep-hole
A small hole through an abutment or retaining wall for drainage of ground

water.
Wehner-Schulze test
An accelerated procedure to assess the polishing resistance and friction

properties of aggregate using a Wehner-Schulze machine.
weigh batcher
A batching plant in which all the ingredients of a mix are weighed.
weigh-in-motion (WIM)
Weigh-in-motion devices are designed to capture and record truck axle

weights and gross vehicle weights as they drive over a sensor. Unlike older
static weigh stations, WIM systems do not require trucks to stop making
them much more efficient.
weighted mean annual

pavement temperature
(WMAPT)
A temperature adjustment factor used to estimate the elastic modulus of

asphalt applicable to the in-service temperature conditions at the site.
well-crushed aggregate
A crushed aggregate of relatively uniform shape and size.
well-graded aggregate
A material containing all main sizes of particles to form a dense material

when compacted.
wet-mix
see wet-mixed macadam
wet-mixed macadam
Basecourse consisting of graded crushed rock or slag pre-mixed with a

controlled amount of water sufficient for adequate compaction.
wettability
The extent to which a solid is wetted by a liquid, measured by the force of

adhesion between the solid and liquid phases.
wetting
The process of binder (or other liquid material) spreading over the surface
of an aggregate and adhering to that surface immediately on contact. This
is generally referred to as 'active adhesion'.
wheelbase
The distance from the centre of the vehicles foremost axle to the rear
overhang line.
wheelpath
1.
The lateral or transverse location of the survey vehicles tyre within the
survey lane.
Term
Definition
2.
The portion of the pavement that is subject to passage of and loading from
vehicle wheels during trafficking. There are two wheel paths per trafficked
lane the left wheel path (LWP), nearer to the verge, and the right wheel
path (RWP), nearer to the middle of the road (because traffic in Australia
and New Zealand travels on the left side of the road).
wheel rut
A longitudinal groove formed in a pavement by vehicle wheels.
wheel-tracker
A device used to assess the rut resistance of an asphalt mix.
whip-off
1.
Scattering of aggregate due to misapplication.
2.
Distribution of aggregate by traffic if the road is opened too soon after

application.
whole-of-life costing
Considers discounted time streams of agency and road user costs typically
over a time interval between 20 and 30 years depending on the life of the
pavement asset in question. Agency cost streams include maintenance,
rehabilitation and reconstruction costs. Road user costs include both vehicle
operating and travel time costs, but at this stage exclude crash costs.
whole-of-life-cycle cost
Takes into account the road agency costs described under life-cycle cost
as well as road user costs. In an ideal scenario where the road budget is
not constrained, the total cost to the community could be minimised by
optimising road agency costs and road user costs. In reality, the majority of
road agencies operate in an environment where the total of road agency
and road user costs is suboptimal.
wide area control system
A signal coordination system comprising one or more centrally or regionally

located computers controlling relatively large numbers of signals, with all
signals connected to the traffic control computers, usually by leased data
lines or, in some cases, by dedicated cable systems.
wide kerbside lane
A motor traffic lane free of parked cars, and of sufficient width to permit
cyclists and other motor traffic to travel along a road within a lane generally
located at the left side of a road, without significant impact on each others
paths. May be associated with a two-way/two-lane road or a multilane road.
widening
The widening of an existing pavement or carriageway generally without

alteration of level.
wide single tyre
Single truck tyre having a specified design section width of 375 mm or

more, which is intended to perform the function of a pair of dual truck tyres.
There are two ranges of specified design width, namely, 375 mm to 450
mm, and over 450 mm.
width of carriageway
The clear width, measured at right angles to the longitudinal centreline of the
bridge or carriageway, between the inner faces of the traffic barrier or kerb.
willingness-to-pay (WTP)
Economic estimation of the value of life in terms of the amounts that

individuals are prepared to pay to reduce risks to their lives. Calculated by
discounting the average future earnings foregone as well as other costs
incurred. Involves stated preference surveys to estimate the value
respondents attach to being able to avoid being killed or injured in a crash,
as measured against other costs incurred, primarily reduced travel time and
quality of life.
WIM
see weigh-in-motion
windrow
A shallow ridge of material formed by the action of a grader (or other) blade
during in situ cutting or mixing operations.
windscreen survey
Observation and recording of land-use data from a moving vehicle.
Term
Definition
wing wall
The extension of an abutment wall as in a bridge, or of an end wall in a

culvert, used for retaining the side slopes of the earth filling.
wire rope barrier
A road safety barrier system consisting of wire rope cables under high
tension that are supported on posts and anchored at the ends.
Wireless Sensor Network

(WSN)
A system of smart, wirelessly connected sensors that allows for an

automated procedure of gathering and processing data from traffic, raises
structural health alarms and determines which traffic can be safely allowed
on a bridge.
wombat crossing
A flat-topped raised area of road similar to a raised table but with the top
surface marked as a designated pedestrian crossing to give priority to
pedestrians; sometimes referred to as a marked flat-top road hump.
woonerf
see shared zone
workability
The ease with which the mix (usually fresh asphalt or concrete) may be
placed and compacted.
work area
Area where maintenance or construction work is being done.
work diary (NHVR)
For the driver of a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle, generally, means a

written work diary or electronic work diary kept by the driver for the
purposes of the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
work hours
Work schedule in which employees are required to work a certain number

of hours but can schedule those hours as they wish. Note: For example,
some employees may choose to work from 7.30 am to 3.30 pm, while
others may choose to work from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm. It differs from
staggered hours in that it is the employee, not the employer, who sets the
work schedule. Flexible work hours can decrease traffic congestion if
instituted by major employers.
working platform
A solid relatively unyielding layer, or layers, established over soft ground to

provide support for earthmoving and construction plant.
working time
The duration at which the contractor has to mix a binder, compact and trim
stabilised material before the material loses its intended strength. An
unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test is used for the establishment
of working time.
working width (road safety

barrier)
The minimum width that is required to prevent an impacting design vehicle

from colliding with an object behind a road safety barrier system. This
includes both the dynamic deflection of the road safety barrier (if any) and
the extra width to allow for the roll (vertical rotation) of an impacting vehicle.
This ensures that the system width can be accommodated between the
deformed road safety barrier and the hazard during impact and that the top
of a high heavy vehicle will not impact a high hazard during impact.
works-as-executed plans
(WAE)
A set of plans on which all variations to the original design, made during
construction, are recorded for record purposes.
work site
Area that includes the work area(s) and any additional length of road or
path required for advance signing, tapers, side-tracks or other areas
needed for associated purposes.
work zone
A section of road where roadworks are taking place. Defined by signposting

and delineation.
written-off vehicle
Vehicle that has been determined to be a total loss by an insurer as a result

of damage. Classed as either statutory write-off or repairable write-off.
Term
Definition
XSS
see extreme stress seal
yaw
The rotation around the vertical axis of a vehicle typically when travelling in
a straight line at high speed.
yaw damping coefficient
The rate at which sway or yaw oscillations decay after a short duration
steer input at the hauling unit.
yellow time
Duration of the yellow display for a phase or a movement.
yellow trap
see right-turn trap
Y-intersection
A junction in which a road joins a through road at an oblique angle.
Y-junction
see Y-intersection
young driver
Typically defined in road safety literature as a probationary/provisional or

fully licensed driver between the ages of 18 and 25. Young drivers are
over-represented in car crashes due to various causes including
inexperience, risky behaviour and distractions.
zebra crossing
A series of short wide longitudinal lines marked side-by-side across a

carriageway to indicate a location where pedestrians may cross a road and
have right-of-way over the vehicular traffic. Also requires the regulatory
sign (see pedestrian crossing).
zone
Portion of the study area, delineated as such for particular land use and
traffic analysis purposes.
zoning
Partitioning of a city or town by ordinance into sections reserved for

different purposes of land usage such as residences, business or
manufacturing. Note: Commonly used zoning terms are residential,
commercial, industrial, public purposes, recreational, special uses, etc.

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Austroads Glossary of Terms

The Austroads Glossary of Terms provides an A-Z list of

Previous editions prepared by MG Lay Library,

The Glossary of Terms was developed to bring consistency

Austroads purpose is to:

promote improved Australian and New Zealand transport

provide expert technical input to national policy development on

promote improved practice and capability by road agencies

Second edition July 2008

Austroads membership comprises the six state and two territory

Third edition December 2008

Roads and Maritime Services New South Wales

Fourth edition April 2010

Roads Corporation Victoria

Fifth edition July 2014

Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland

Sixth edition August 2015

Main Roads Western Australia

First published February 2008

Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure South

Department of State Growth Tasmania

Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Regional

Australian Local Government Association

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Austroads 2015 | page i

see converter dolly

A multi-combination vehicle composed of a prime mover, a semi-trailer and

A-type coupling (NHVR)

see annual average daily traffic

The wearing away of a solid surface by mechanical action.

The ability of a material to resist abrasion.

see anti-lock (brake system)

A dimension above which the treatment cannot be used under any

The penetration of binder into an aggregate or base pavement.

An end support of a bridge or similar structure.

see automotive collision avoidance system

accelerated loading facility

A mobile loading frame which applies power-driven rolling wheel loads to

The controlled application of a prototype wheel loading, at or above the

The ability of a vehicle to accelerate either from rest or to increase speed

An auxiliary lane used to allow vehicles to increase speed without

A chemical additive that increases the rate of attainment of strength of a

A dimension that is at the upper limit of acceptable dimensions and above

A dimension that is at the lower limit of acceptable dimensions and below

acceptance (RMS ITS)

Austroads 2015 | page 1

The driveway by which vehicles and/or pedestrians enter and/or leave

To prevent vehicles and people crossing property lines by means of

To give vehicles and people access at predetermined locations.

Value obtained as a function of an accessibility measure constrained to a

An entrance to a facility or establishment served by a car park, suitable for

accessible travel path

An uninterrupted path of travel to or within a building providing pedestrian

A street whose main function is to provide access to a small number of

see travel time

a) for a heavy vehicle accreditation granted under the Heavy Vehicle

b) for a heavy vehicle accreditation granted under another law of a