Roadway narrows from both sides ahead
Roadway narrows from both sides ahead - W328
Road Signs - W328
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Roadway narrows from both sides ahead
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Safety Sign Code:
- W328
Product Description
Roadway Narrows From Both Sides Ahead – W328 Road Sign
The W328 Road Narrows From Both Sides Ahead road sign is a warning sign used to alert drivers and other road users that the roadway ahead becomes narrower from both sides.
The official South African designation is ROAD NARROWS FROM BOTH SIDES. The sign warns that the available roadway width will be reduced and that the reduced-width section continues for some distance.
W328 gives drivers advance warning before they reach the narrowing, allowing them to become more alert to surrounding traffic, adjust their speed where appropriate and prepare for the reduced road space.
What Does the W328 Road Sign Mean?
W328 means Road Narrows From Both Sides. It warns drivers that the roadway ahead will become narrower from both sides.
The narrowing is not simply a short isolated obstruction. Under the SARTSM application, W328 is used where the roadway width is abruptly reduced and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
W328 is a warning sign. It does not itself impose a speed limit or require drivers to stop.
Why Is the W328 Road Narrows Sign Important?
A sudden reduction in road width can change how vehicles move through a section of roadway.
Drivers may have less space to manoeuvre, particularly where traffic is travelling in both directions or where larger vehicles are using the route.
Advance warning gives road users time to recognise the narrowing before reaching the reduced-width section.
When Is W328 Used?
The SARTSM states that W328 should be displayed where the roadway width is abruptly reduced from both sides and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
The sign should be displayed in advance of all sections of roadway with a width of less than 5 m, subject to the specific SARTSM conditions.
On minor low-volume roads, W328 need not be displayed where the roadway remains wider than 5 m after the narrowing.
What Does “Road Narrows From Both Sides” Mean?
It means that the available roadway space becomes narrower from the left and right sides.
Unlike a narrowing caused by one obstruction on one side only, W328 indicates that both sides of the roadway contribute to the reduction in width.
The reduced width continues beyond the point where the narrowing begins.
W328 and a Road Less Than 5 Metres Wide
The SARTSM specifies W328 in advance of sections where the roadway width is less than 5 m.
This criterion helps identify locations where the reduced roadway width may be important to approaching drivers.
The actual application should still be assessed according to the road type, traffic volume and other applicable SARTSM requirements.
W328 and Abrupt Road Narrowing
W328 is intended for a road that becomes narrower relatively abruptly and remains at the reduced width for some distance.
It is therefore different from a gradual change in road width or a short isolated obstruction that does not create a continuing reduction in roadway width.
W328 Is Not for a Narrow Bridge
W328 should not be used for a localised narrowing at a bridge.
Where the narrowing is specifically caused by a bridge, the applicable W326 Narrow Bridge warning sign should be used instead.
This distinction is important because W326 tells drivers that the narrowing is associated with a bridge structure, while W328 warns of a general roadway narrowing from both sides.
W328 vs W326 Narrow Bridge
- W328: Roadway narrows from both sides and continues at the reduced width.
- W326: Warns specifically of a narrow bridge.
Where a bridge creates the localised width restriction, W326 should be used rather than W328.
W328 vs W329 and W330
The W328, W329 and W330 signs are all related to road-narrowing conditions, but they communicate different layouts.
- W328: Road narrows from both sides.
- W329: Road narrows from the right side only.
- W330: Road narrows from the left side only.
The correct sign should match the actual side or sides from which the roadway becomes narrower.
W328 vs Lane Ends Signs
W328 should not be used where the roadway narrows by a full traffic lane width in one or both directions.
Where a complete traffic lane ends, the appropriate W214 Right Lane Ends, W215 Left Lane Ends or the appropriate diagrammatic lane-reduction warning should be considered.
This distinction prevents a general Road Narrows sign from being used where the actual road condition is a lane termination.
W328 and Lane Reduction
A lane reduction can be different from a general narrowing of the roadway.
For example, a two-lane roadway may continue as one lane because a complete lane ends. In this situation, W328 is not the appropriate warning sign.
The warning should communicate the actual traffic change so that drivers understand that a complete lane is ending.
Where Is W328 Used?
W328 may be relevant on road sections where the roadway becomes narrower from both sides.
Potential locations include:
- Rural roads
- Urban roads
- Roads approaching restricted-width sections
- Roads through constrained terrain
- Roads affected by permanent construction features
- Traffic-calming sections
- Private roads
- Industrial and commercial access roads
- Temporary roadworks detours
The actual application depends on the road geometry, final roadway width, traffic volume and applicable requirements.
W328 and Traffic Flow
When the roadway becomes narrower, vehicles travelling in opposite directions may have less space to pass.
Drivers should therefore become more aware of approaching vehicles and any traffic-control arrangements at the narrowed section.
Where the reduced width requires separate priority or stopping control, the appropriate regulatory or priority signs should be provided in addition to any warning sign.
How Should Drivers Respond to W328?
Drivers approaching a W328 sign should prepare for the reduced roadway width.
Drivers should:
- Reduce speed where appropriate for the road and traffic conditions.
- Watch carefully for vehicles approaching from the opposite direction.
- Remain within the available roadway space.
- Avoid sudden steering movements.
- Maintain a suitable following distance.
- Follow any priority, stop or yield controls at the narrowed section.
- Be particularly careful when driving a wide or large vehicle.
W328 Does Not Set a Speed Limit
W328 is a warning sign and does not establish a particular speed limit.
Where a lower speed limit applies, it should be displayed separately using the appropriate regulatory speed-limit sign.
Drivers should nevertheless adjust their speed according to the actual road width, traffic, visibility and other road conditions.
W328 Does Not Automatically Require Drivers to Stop
W328 is an advance warning and does not itself require every approaching driver to stop.
Drivers must stop when another applicable traffic control requires it or when the actual traffic situation makes stopping necessary to proceed safely.
W328 and Oncoming Traffic
Reduced roadway width can make passing between opposing vehicles more difficult.
Drivers should therefore look ahead for oncoming traffic and enter the narrowed section with appropriate caution.
Where a priority or traffic-control arrangement is installed, drivers must follow the signs and road markings at the location.
W328 and Heavy Vehicles
Wide and heavy vehicles can be more affected by a reduction in roadway width.
Truck drivers, bus drivers and operators of other large vehicles should consider the available road space before entering the narrowed section.
Where a separate legal width restriction applies, the applicable regulatory restriction should be communicated through the appropriate sign.
W328 and Wide Vehicles
The road-narrowing warning does not automatically mean that a particular vehicle is prohibited from using the road.
It warns about the reduced roadway width.
Drivers of wide vehicles should assess the available space, watch for approaching traffic and obey any additional width, priority or traffic-control signs.
W328 Sign Placement
W328 should be located in advance of the point where the narrowing begins.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be positioned according to the applicable provisions of Table 3.1 or Figure 3.1.
The actual warning distance should provide approaching drivers with enough time to recognise the narrowing before they reach it.
W328 and Advance Warning Distance
The appropriate advance-warning distance depends on factors such as operating speed, road environment and visibility.
The general SARTSM warning-sign location provisions provide different distances for different operating speeds.
The exact W328 position for a specific public-road installation should be confirmed against the applicable SARTSM requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
W328 and Sign Visibility
The W328 sign should be clearly visible to approaching road users before they reach the point where the roadway narrows.
Visibility may be affected by:
- Road curves
- Hills and crests
- Vegetation
- Buildings and walls
- Advertising boards
- Other roadside signs
- Poor lighting
- Weather conditions
The sign should be positioned and maintained so that drivers can recognise the warning clearly.
W328 and Traffic-Calming Pinch Points
W328 can be relevant to some traffic-calming arrangements where the roadway narrows from both sides.
The SARTSM traffic-calming guidance identifies W328 as one of the advance-warning signs that can be used for certain two-way pinch-point arrangements.
Where vehicles need to take turns through a pinch point, additional priority or yield controls may be required depending on the design and traffic conditions.
W328 and Chicanes
Some chicanes or pinch points reduce the carriageway width on both sides at a specific section of road.
Where the arrangement is a two-way narrowing rather than a lane-end condition, W328 may be part of the advance-warning arrangement.
The exact traffic-control system depends on the design of the chicane, traffic volume, visibility and whether vehicles can pass through simultaneously.
W328 and Temporary Roadworks
Roadworks can temporarily reduce the width of a roadway from both sides.
Where a roadworks detour creates the applicable road-narrowing condition, the temporary TW328 warning sign may be used.
Temporary warning signs should form part of the overall approved traffic-management arrangement for the work area.
Temporary Road Narrows Sign – TW328
The temporary version of W328 is designated TW328.
The SARTSM specifically allows TW328 to be used within roadworks detours.
TW328 provides advance warning when a temporary route becomes narrower from both sides.
Permanent W328 Sign Design and Colours
The permanent W328 warning sign uses the standard South African warning-sign arrangement:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: White retroreflective
The symbol communicates that both sides of the roadway move inward and the available road width becomes narrower.
Temporary TW328 Sign Design and Colours
The temporary TW328 warning sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
The yellow background identifies the warning as temporary.
Retroreflective W328 Signs
Retroreflective materials help warning signs remain visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights, particularly during lower-light conditions.
The official SARTSM specifies a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background for permanent W328, with a yellow retroreflective background for TW328.
W328 Sign Size
The appropriate W328 sign size depends on the road environment and applicable warning-sign requirements.
For public-road applications, the appropriate dimensions should be selected according to the applicable SARTSM dimensional requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
W328 Sign Maintenance
A Road Narrows warning sign should remain clean, legible and visible to approaching road users.
Maintenance checks can identify:
- Faded sign faces
- Physical damage
- Loose mounting hardware
- Vegetation covering the sign
- Other roadside obstructions
- Reduced retroreflective performance
The roadway itself should also be monitored so that the sign continues to represent the actual width and traffic conditions.
W328 and Changing Road Width
Roadway width can change because of construction, traffic-calming measures, permanent infrastructure, temporary barriers or other physical changes.
Where the road configuration changes, the existing warning-sign arrangement should be reviewed to ensure that it still accurately describes the road ahead.
W328 and Permanent Road Narrowing
A permanent road narrowing may occur where the road transitions into a constrained section or where the roadway has been redesigned.
Where the narrowing meets the applicable W328 conditions, the permanent warning sign can provide advance information before the reduced-width section begins.
W328 and Temporary Road Narrowing
Temporary road restrictions can result from construction barriers, temporary structures, detours or other work-zone arrangements.
Where the temporary road narrows from both sides, TW328 may be used as part of the approved temporary traffic-management plan.
W328 and Bridge Approaches
A road may become narrower before a bridge for reasons other than the bridge itself.
Where the narrowing is a general road-width reduction that begins before the bridge and continues for some distance, the appropriate road-narrowing warning can be considered.
Where the narrowing is specifically a localised restriction at the bridge structure, W326 Narrow Bridge should be used instead.
W328 and One-Vehicle-Width Structures
W328 should also be distinguished from W327 One Vehicle Width Structure Ahead.
W327 warns of a narrow structure where the available width is less than 5 m and traffic may need to stop at the entrance when opposing traffic is already on or too close to the structure.
W328, by contrast, warns about the roadway narrowing from both sides rather than identifying a one-vehicle-width structure.
W328 on Rural Roads
Rural roads may narrow where they enter constrained areas, pass through development or transition to sections with reduced roadway width.
W328 can provide advance warning where the roadway abruptly narrows from both sides and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
W328 on Urban Roads
Urban roads can narrow because of traffic-calming features, changes in road layout, development constraints or other permanent or temporary arrangements.
Where both sides of the roadway move inward and the applicable criteria are met, W328 may be appropriate.
W328 at Construction Sites
Construction activities often involve temporary changes to the usable roadway width.
Where a construction detour narrows from both sides, TW328 can provide advance warning to approaching drivers.
Additional cones, barriers, lane markings and other work-zone controls may also be required depending on the site.
W328 for Commercial and Industrial Roads
Commercial and industrial access roads can include sections where roadway width is reduced because of structures, site constraints or traffic-management arrangements.
Where the narrowing meets the applicable criteria, similar road-narrowing warning signage can help drivers prepare for the reduced space.
W328 on Private Roads and Properties
Similar Road Narrows warning signage may also be used on private roads and controlled properties such as:
- Residential estates
- Industrial sites
- Business parks
- Farms
- Game farms
- Lodges and resorts
- Mining properties
- Private access roads
- Construction sites
- Large commercial properties
On private property, the sign can form part of an internal traffic-management system based on the actual road layout.
Who May Need W328 Road Narrows Signs?
W328 signage may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Road construction contractors
- Traffic-management contractors
- Road maintenance contractors
- Property developers
- Residential estates
- Commercial property managers
- Industrial facilities
- Mining operations
- Farms and agricultural properties
- Private facility managers
Benefits of Road Narrows From Both Sides Warning Signs
- Warns drivers that the roadway becomes narrower ahead.
- Provides advance information before the reduced-width section.
- Alerts drivers to reduced available road space.
- Can help drivers prepare for oncoming traffic.
- Can support traffic management at pinch points and other narrowed sections.
- Can be used where the roadway narrows from both sides.
- TW328 can provide temporary warning on roadworks detours.
- Helps distinguish a general road narrowing from a narrow bridge or lane-ending condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About W328 Road Signs
What does W328 mean?
W328 means Road Narrows From Both Sides. It warns that the roadway ahead becomes narrower from both sides.
What is the official name of W328?
The official South African designation is ROAD NARROWS FROM BOTH SIDES.
When is W328 used?
It is used where the roadway narrows abruptly from both sides and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
How narrow must the road be for W328?
The SARTSM states that W328 should be displayed in advance of sections of roadway with a width of less than 5 m, subject to its stated conditions.
Does W328 apply to every road narrower than 5 m?
The SARTSM provides exceptions, including certain minor low-volume roads where the roadway remains more than 5 m wide after narrowing.
Does W328 mean the road is closed?
No. It warns that the roadway becomes narrower. The road may remain open to traffic subject to the applicable conditions and controls.
Does W328 mean I must stop?
No. W328 itself is an advance warning. Drivers must stop when another applicable traffic control or the actual traffic situation requires it.
Does W328 impose a speed limit?
No. W328 does not establish a speed limit. Any regulatory speed restriction is displayed separately.
What is the difference between W328 and W329?
W328 warns that the road narrows from both sides, while W329 warns that it narrows from the right side only.
What is the difference between W328 and W330?
W328 indicates narrowing from both sides, while W330 indicates narrowing from the left side only.
What is the difference between W328 and W326?
W328 warns of a general roadway narrowing, while W326 specifically warns of a narrow bridge.
Can W328 be used at a bridge?
It should not be used for a localised narrowing at a bridge. The SARTSM specifies W326 Narrow Bridge for that condition.
What is the difference between W328 and W327?
W328 warns of roadway narrowing, while W327 warns of a one-vehicle-width structure less than 5 m wide.
Can W328 be used when a full lane ends?
No. A full-lane reduction should be signed with W214, W215 or an appropriate diagrammatic warning where applicable.
What is TW328?
TW328 is the temporary Road Narrows From Both Sides warning sign.
When is TW328 used?
TW328 may be used within roadworks detours where the temporary roadway narrows from both sides.
What colours does a permanent W328 sign use?
The permanent sign uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does TW328 use?
The temporary sign uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
Where should W328 be placed?
It should be placed in advance of the point where the narrowing begins, according to the applicable SARTSM warning-sign placement requirements.
Can W328 be used at a traffic-calming pinch point?
Yes. W328 can be used for suitable two-way road-narrowing or pinch-point arrangements, with additional traffic controls where required.
Can W328 be used on a private road?
Similar road-narrowing warning signage may be used on private roads and controlled properties as part of an appropriate internal traffic-management system.
Should trucks pay attention to W328?
Yes. Large and wide vehicles can be more affected by reduced roadway width and should approach the narrowed section carefully.
Can Signs4SA supply W328 signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W328 Road Narrows From Both Sides signs, TW328 temporary signs, W326 Narrow Bridge signs, W327 One Vehicle Width Structure signs and related traffic-management signage.
Order W328 Road Narrows From Both Sides Signs
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One important feature of Roadway narrows from both sides ahead signs is their high visibility. These signs are designed to be easily seen by drivers, even from a distance and in adverse weather conditions. Many Roadway narrows from both sides ahead signs are also designed with reflective materials that make them visible at night.
Another important feature of Roadway narrows from both sides ahead signs is their durability. Road signs are exposed to a wide range of environmental factors, including wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. As such, they need to be made from materials that can withstand these conditions and remain in good condition for years to come.
More About Roadway narrows from both sides ahead
Roadway Narrows From Both Sides Ahead – W328 Road Sign
The W328 Road Narrows From Both Sides Ahead road sign is a warning sign used to alert drivers and other road users that the roadway ahead becomes narrower from both sides.
The official South African designation is ROAD NARROWS FROM BOTH SIDES. The sign warns that the available roadway width will be reduced and that the reduced-width section continues for some distance.
W328 gives drivers advance warning before they reach the narrowing, allowing them to become more alert to surrounding traffic, adjust their speed where appropriate and prepare for the reduced road space.
What Does the W328 Road Sign Mean?
W328 means Road Narrows From Both Sides. It warns drivers that the roadway ahead will become narrower from both sides.
The narrowing is not simply a short isolated obstruction. Under the SARTSM application, W328 is used where the roadway width is abruptly reduced and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
W328 is a warning sign. It does not itself impose a speed limit or require drivers to stop.
Why Is the W328 Road Narrows Sign Important?
A sudden reduction in road width can change how vehicles move through a section of roadway.
Drivers may have less space to manoeuvre, particularly where traffic is travelling in both directions or where larger vehicles are using the route.
Advance warning gives road users time to recognise the narrowing before reaching the reduced-width section.
When Is W328 Used?
The SARTSM states that W328 should be displayed where the roadway width is abruptly reduced from both sides and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
The sign should be displayed in advance of all sections of roadway with a width of less than 5 m, subject to the specific SARTSM conditions.
On minor low-volume roads, W328 need not be displayed where the roadway remains wider than 5 m after the narrowing.
What Does “Road Narrows From Both Sides” Mean?
It means that the available roadway space becomes narrower from the left and right sides.
Unlike a narrowing caused by one obstruction on one side only, W328 indicates that both sides of the roadway contribute to the reduction in width.
The reduced width continues beyond the point where the narrowing begins.
W328 and a Road Less Than 5 Metres Wide
The SARTSM specifies W328 in advance of sections where the roadway width is less than 5 m.
This criterion helps identify locations where the reduced roadway width may be important to approaching drivers.
The actual application should still be assessed according to the road type, traffic volume and other applicable SARTSM requirements.
W328 and Abrupt Road Narrowing
W328 is intended for a road that becomes narrower relatively abruptly and remains at the reduced width for some distance.
It is therefore different from a gradual change in road width or a short isolated obstruction that does not create a continuing reduction in roadway width.
W328 Is Not for a Narrow Bridge
W328 should not be used for a localised narrowing at a bridge.
Where the narrowing is specifically caused by a bridge, the applicable W326 Narrow Bridge warning sign should be used instead.
This distinction is important because W326 tells drivers that the narrowing is associated with a bridge structure, while W328 warns of a general roadway narrowing from both sides.
W328 vs W326 Narrow Bridge
- W328: Roadway narrows from both sides and continues at the reduced width.
- W326: Warns specifically of a narrow bridge.
Where a bridge creates the localised width restriction, W326 should be used rather than W328.
W328 vs W329 and W330
The W328, W329 and W330 signs are all related to road-narrowing conditions, but they communicate different layouts.
- W328: Road narrows from both sides.
- W329: Road narrows from the right side only.
- W330: Road narrows from the left side only.
The correct sign should match the actual side or sides from which the roadway becomes narrower.
W328 vs Lane Ends Signs
W328 should not be used where the roadway narrows by a full traffic lane width in one or both directions.
Where a complete traffic lane ends, the appropriate W214 Right Lane Ends, W215 Left Lane Ends or the appropriate diagrammatic lane-reduction warning should be considered.
This distinction prevents a general Road Narrows sign from being used where the actual road condition is a lane termination.
W328 and Lane Reduction
A lane reduction can be different from a general narrowing of the roadway.
For example, a two-lane roadway may continue as one lane because a complete lane ends. In this situation, W328 is not the appropriate warning sign.
The warning should communicate the actual traffic change so that drivers understand that a complete lane is ending.
Where Is W328 Used?
W328 may be relevant on road sections where the roadway becomes narrower from both sides.
Potential locations include:
- Rural roads
- Urban roads
- Roads approaching restricted-width sections
- Roads through constrained terrain
- Roads affected by permanent construction features
- Traffic-calming sections
- Private roads
- Industrial and commercial access roads
- Temporary roadworks detours
The actual application depends on the road geometry, final roadway width, traffic volume and applicable requirements.
W328 and Traffic Flow
When the roadway becomes narrower, vehicles travelling in opposite directions may have less space to pass.
Drivers should therefore become more aware of approaching vehicles and any traffic-control arrangements at the narrowed section.
Where the reduced width requires separate priority or stopping control, the appropriate regulatory or priority signs should be provided in addition to any warning sign.
How Should Drivers Respond to W328?
Drivers approaching a W328 sign should prepare for the reduced roadway width.
Drivers should:
- Reduce speed where appropriate for the road and traffic conditions.
- Watch carefully for vehicles approaching from the opposite direction.
- Remain within the available roadway space.
- Avoid sudden steering movements.
- Maintain a suitable following distance.
- Follow any priority, stop or yield controls at the narrowed section.
- Be particularly careful when driving a wide or large vehicle.
W328 Does Not Set a Speed Limit
W328 is a warning sign and does not establish a particular speed limit.
Where a lower speed limit applies, it should be displayed separately using the appropriate regulatory speed-limit sign.
Drivers should nevertheless adjust their speed according to the actual road width, traffic, visibility and other road conditions.
W328 Does Not Automatically Require Drivers to Stop
W328 is an advance warning and does not itself require every approaching driver to stop.
Drivers must stop when another applicable traffic control requires it or when the actual traffic situation makes stopping necessary to proceed safely.
W328 and Oncoming Traffic
Reduced roadway width can make passing between opposing vehicles more difficult.
Drivers should therefore look ahead for oncoming traffic and enter the narrowed section with appropriate caution.
Where a priority or traffic-control arrangement is installed, drivers must follow the signs and road markings at the location.
W328 and Heavy Vehicles
Wide and heavy vehicles can be more affected by a reduction in roadway width.
Truck drivers, bus drivers and operators of other large vehicles should consider the available road space before entering the narrowed section.
Where a separate legal width restriction applies, the applicable regulatory restriction should be communicated through the appropriate sign.
W328 and Wide Vehicles
The road-narrowing warning does not automatically mean that a particular vehicle is prohibited from using the road.
It warns about the reduced roadway width.
Drivers of wide vehicles should assess the available space, watch for approaching traffic and obey any additional width, priority or traffic-control signs.
W328 Sign Placement
W328 should be located in advance of the point where the narrowing begins.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be positioned according to the applicable provisions of Table 3.1 or Figure 3.1.
The actual warning distance should provide approaching drivers with enough time to recognise the narrowing before they reach it.
W328 and Advance Warning Distance
The appropriate advance-warning distance depends on factors such as operating speed, road environment and visibility.
The general SARTSM warning-sign location provisions provide different distances for different operating speeds.
The exact W328 position for a specific public-road installation should be confirmed against the applicable SARTSM requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
W328 and Sign Visibility
The W328 sign should be clearly visible to approaching road users before they reach the point where the roadway narrows.
Visibility may be affected by:
- Road curves
- Hills and crests
- Vegetation
- Buildings and walls
- Advertising boards
- Other roadside signs
- Poor lighting
- Weather conditions
The sign should be positioned and maintained so that drivers can recognise the warning clearly.
W328 and Traffic-Calming Pinch Points
W328 can be relevant to some traffic-calming arrangements where the roadway narrows from both sides.
The SARTSM traffic-calming guidance identifies W328 as one of the advance-warning signs that can be used for certain two-way pinch-point arrangements.
Where vehicles need to take turns through a pinch point, additional priority or yield controls may be required depending on the design and traffic conditions.
W328 and Chicanes
Some chicanes or pinch points reduce the carriageway width on both sides at a specific section of road.
Where the arrangement is a two-way narrowing rather than a lane-end condition, W328 may be part of the advance-warning arrangement.
The exact traffic-control system depends on the design of the chicane, traffic volume, visibility and whether vehicles can pass through simultaneously.
W328 and Temporary Roadworks
Roadworks can temporarily reduce the width of a roadway from both sides.
Where a roadworks detour creates the applicable road-narrowing condition, the temporary TW328 warning sign may be used.
Temporary warning signs should form part of the overall approved traffic-management arrangement for the work area.
Temporary Road Narrows Sign – TW328
The temporary version of W328 is designated TW328.
The SARTSM specifically allows TW328 to be used within roadworks detours.
TW328 provides advance warning when a temporary route becomes narrower from both sides.
Permanent W328 Sign Design and Colours
The permanent W328 warning sign uses the standard South African warning-sign arrangement:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: White retroreflective
The symbol communicates that both sides of the roadway move inward and the available road width becomes narrower.
Temporary TW328 Sign Design and Colours
The temporary TW328 warning sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
The yellow background identifies the warning as temporary.
Retroreflective W328 Signs
Retroreflective materials help warning signs remain visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights, particularly during lower-light conditions.
The official SARTSM specifies a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background for permanent W328, with a yellow retroreflective background for TW328.
W328 Sign Size
The appropriate W328 sign size depends on the road environment and applicable warning-sign requirements.
For public-road applications, the appropriate dimensions should be selected according to the applicable SARTSM dimensional requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
W328 Sign Maintenance
A Road Narrows warning sign should remain clean, legible and visible to approaching road users.
Maintenance checks can identify:
- Faded sign faces
- Physical damage
- Loose mounting hardware
- Vegetation covering the sign
- Other roadside obstructions
- Reduced retroreflective performance
The roadway itself should also be monitored so that the sign continues to represent the actual width and traffic conditions.
W328 and Changing Road Width
Roadway width can change because of construction, traffic-calming measures, permanent infrastructure, temporary barriers or other physical changes.
Where the road configuration changes, the existing warning-sign arrangement should be reviewed to ensure that it still accurately describes the road ahead.
W328 and Permanent Road Narrowing
A permanent road narrowing may occur where the road transitions into a constrained section or where the roadway has been redesigned.
Where the narrowing meets the applicable W328 conditions, the permanent warning sign can provide advance information before the reduced-width section begins.
W328 and Temporary Road Narrowing
Temporary road restrictions can result from construction barriers, temporary structures, detours or other work-zone arrangements.
Where the temporary road narrows from both sides, TW328 may be used as part of the approved temporary traffic-management plan.
W328 and Bridge Approaches
A road may become narrower before a bridge for reasons other than the bridge itself.
Where the narrowing is a general road-width reduction that begins before the bridge and continues for some distance, the appropriate road-narrowing warning can be considered.
Where the narrowing is specifically a localised restriction at the bridge structure, W326 Narrow Bridge should be used instead.
W328 and One-Vehicle-Width Structures
W328 should also be distinguished from W327 One Vehicle Width Structure Ahead.
W327 warns of a narrow structure where the available width is less than 5 m and traffic may need to stop at the entrance when opposing traffic is already on or too close to the structure.
W328, by contrast, warns about the roadway narrowing from both sides rather than identifying a one-vehicle-width structure.
W328 on Rural Roads
Rural roads may narrow where they enter constrained areas, pass through development or transition to sections with reduced roadway width.
W328 can provide advance warning where the roadway abruptly narrows from both sides and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
W328 on Urban Roads
Urban roads can narrow because of traffic-calming features, changes in road layout, development constraints or other permanent or temporary arrangements.
Where both sides of the roadway move inward and the applicable criteria are met, W328 may be appropriate.
W328 at Construction Sites
Construction activities often involve temporary changes to the usable roadway width.
Where a construction detour narrows from both sides, TW328 can provide advance warning to approaching drivers.
Additional cones, barriers, lane markings and other work-zone controls may also be required depending on the site.
W328 for Commercial and Industrial Roads
Commercial and industrial access roads can include sections where roadway width is reduced because of structures, site constraints or traffic-management arrangements.
Where the narrowing meets the applicable criteria, similar road-narrowing warning signage can help drivers prepare for the reduced space.
W328 on Private Roads and Properties
Similar Road Narrows warning signage may also be used on private roads and controlled properties such as:
- Residential estates
- Industrial sites
- Business parks
- Farms
- Game farms
- Lodges and resorts
- Mining properties
- Private access roads
- Construction sites
- Large commercial properties
On private property, the sign can form part of an internal traffic-management system based on the actual road layout.
Who May Need W328 Road Narrows Signs?
W328 signage may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Road construction contractors
- Traffic-management contractors
- Road maintenance contractors
- Property developers
- Residential estates
- Commercial property managers
- Industrial facilities
- Mining operations
- Farms and agricultural properties
- Private facility managers
Benefits of Road Narrows From Both Sides Warning Signs
- Warns drivers that the roadway becomes narrower ahead.
- Provides advance information before the reduced-width section.
- Alerts drivers to reduced available road space.
- Can help drivers prepare for oncoming traffic.
- Can support traffic management at pinch points and other narrowed sections.
- Can be used where the roadway narrows from both sides.
- TW328 can provide temporary warning on roadworks detours.
- Helps distinguish a general road narrowing from a narrow bridge or lane-ending condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About W328 Road Signs
What does W328 mean?
W328 means Road Narrows From Both Sides. It warns that the roadway ahead becomes narrower from both sides.
What is the official name of W328?
The official South African designation is ROAD NARROWS FROM BOTH SIDES.
When is W328 used?
It is used where the roadway narrows abruptly from both sides and continues at the reduced width for some distance.
How narrow must the road be for W328?
The SARTSM states that W328 should be displayed in advance of sections of roadway with a width of less than 5 m, subject to its stated conditions.
Does W328 apply to every road narrower than 5 m?
The SARTSM provides exceptions, including certain minor low-volume roads where the roadway remains more than 5 m wide after narrowing.
Does W328 mean the road is closed?
No. It warns that the roadway becomes narrower. The road may remain open to traffic subject to the applicable conditions and controls.
Does W328 mean I must stop?
No. W328 itself is an advance warning. Drivers must stop when another applicable traffic control or the actual traffic situation requires it.
Does W328 impose a speed limit?
No. W328 does not establish a speed limit. Any regulatory speed restriction is displayed separately.
What is the difference between W328 and W329?
W328 warns that the road narrows from both sides, while W329 warns that it narrows from the right side only.
What is the difference between W328 and W330?
W328 indicates narrowing from both sides, while W330 indicates narrowing from the left side only.
What is the difference between W328 and W326?
W328 warns of a general roadway narrowing, while W326 specifically warns of a narrow bridge.
Can W328 be used at a bridge?
It should not be used for a localised narrowing at a bridge. The SARTSM specifies W326 Narrow Bridge for that condition.
What is the difference between W328 and W327?
W328 warns of roadway narrowing, while W327 warns of a one-vehicle-width structure less than 5 m wide.
Can W328 be used when a full lane ends?
No. A full-lane reduction should be signed with W214, W215 or an appropriate diagrammatic warning where applicable.
What is TW328?
TW328 is the temporary Road Narrows From Both Sides warning sign.
When is TW328 used?
TW328 may be used within roadworks detours where the temporary roadway narrows from both sides.
What colours does a permanent W328 sign use?
The permanent sign uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does TW328 use?
The temporary sign uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
Where should W328 be placed?
It should be placed in advance of the point where the narrowing begins, according to the applicable SARTSM warning-sign placement requirements.
Can W328 be used at a traffic-calming pinch point?
Yes. W328 can be used for suitable two-way road-narrowing or pinch-point arrangements, with additional traffic controls where required.
Can W328 be used on a private road?
Similar road-narrowing warning signage may be used on private roads and controlled properties as part of an appropriate internal traffic-management system.
Should trucks pay attention to W328?
Yes. Large and wide vehicles can be more affected by reduced roadway width and should approach the narrowed section carefully.
Can Signs4SA supply W328 signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W328 Road Narrows From Both Sides signs, TW328 temporary signs, W326 Narrow Bridge signs, W327 One Vehicle Width Structure signs and related traffic-management signage.
Order W328 Road Narrows From Both Sides Signs
Need W328 Roadway Narrows From Both Sides Ahead signs for a road project, traffic-calming installation, construction detour, private estate, industrial site, rural road or traffic-management application?
Contact Signs4SA with your required sign code, dimensions, quantity and installation details to request a quotation.
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