Tunnel ahead
Tunnel ahead - W319
Road Signs - W319
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Tunnel ahead
Category:
Safety Sign Code:
- W319
Product Description
Tunnel Ahead – W319 Road Sign
The W319 Tunnel Ahead road sign is a warning sign used to alert drivers and other road users that a tunnel is ahead.
The sign is particularly important where the tunnel changes the normal driving environment, including situations where headlights may be required or where the tunnel entrance is not clearly visible from a sufficient distance.
W319 gives approaching drivers advance information so they can prepare for the tunnel and pay attention to the road conditions, lighting and traffic controls ahead.
What Does the W319 Road Sign Mean?
W319 means Tunnel Ahead. It warns road users that a tunnel is present on the roadway ahead and that the use of headlights may be required.
W319 is a warning sign. It does not itself impose a speed limit or require drivers to stop. Drivers must continue to obey all applicable speed-limit signs, traffic signals, road markings and other traffic controls.
Why Is the W319 Tunnel Warning Sign Important?
A tunnel can cause a sudden change in lighting conditions as drivers move from an open roadway into an enclosed section.
Drivers may also need to adjust their attention to the tunnel environment, including lane markings, traffic conditions, tunnel lighting and any signs or controls installed at the entrance.
W319 provides advance warning so drivers know that a tunnel is approaching and can prepare before reaching the entrance.
When Should W319 Be Used?
The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual states that W319 should be used to warn road users of the presence of a tunnel on the roadway ahead in which the use of headlights may be required.
W319 should also be displayed where the tunnel entrance is not visible from a point at least 150 m in advance of the entrance.
This makes W319 particularly relevant where the tunnel entrance is hidden by a road curve, hill, vegetation, structures or another feature of the roadway.
Where Is W319 Used?
W319 may be appropriate on approaches to tunnels on:
- National and provincial roads
- Urban roads
- Rural roads
- Mountain routes
- Roads through built-up areas
- Expressways and major routes
- Industrial access roads with tunnels
- Private roads with enclosed roadway sections
The actual use depends on the tunnel, road layout, visibility and applicable road traffic sign requirements.
W319 and Headlights
One of the specific reasons for the W319 warning is that the tunnel ahead may require the use of headlights.
Moving from daylight into a darker tunnel can reduce visibility, especially during the transition at the entrance. Drivers should therefore pay attention to the tunnel environment and use their headlights where required by the road rules, tunnel controls or prevailing conditions.
W319 and Tunnel Entrance Visibility
The SARTSM specifically requires W319 to be displayed when the tunnel entrance cannot be seen from at least 150 m in advance.
This can apply where the approach road curves before the entrance or where terrain, vegetation or structures prevent drivers from seeing the tunnel from a suitable distance.
Where a tunnel entrance is clearly visible from well in advance, the need for the warning sign should be considered in accordance with the applicable signing criteria.
W319 Sign Placement
W319 should be displayed in advance of the tunnel hazard.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be positioned at a distance that depends on the operating speed of traffic, with Figure 3.1 used to determine the appropriate distance.
The general advance-warning distances in the SARTSM are based on operating speed. As a general reference:
- 60 km/h: 120 m
- 80 km/h: 160 m
- 100 km/h: 240 m
- 120 km/h: 330 m
These are general advance-warning distances and the actual placement should take the specific road environment, visibility and applicable requirements into account.
W319 and Restricted Visibility
Where the standard position does not provide adequate visibility of the warning sign, the warning-sign location should be adjusted in accordance with the general SARTSM visibility requirements.
Advance warning is intended to give approaching drivers enough opportunity to recognise the tunnel warning before reaching the entrance.
How Should Drivers Respond to a W319 Sign?
Drivers approaching a W319 sign should become alert to the tunnel ahead and prepare for the change in driving environment.
Drivers should:
- Watch for the tunnel entrance.
- Use headlights where required.
- Observe the applicable speed limit.
- Pay attention to lane markings and traffic-control signs.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Watch for changes in visibility and lighting.
- Be prepared for slower-moving or stopped traffic inside or near the tunnel.
- Follow any tunnel-specific instructions or restrictions.
W319 Does Not Set a Speed Limit
W319 is a warning sign and does not itself establish a speed limit.
Any regulatory speed restriction applying to the tunnel should be displayed separately using the appropriate speed-limit sign.
Drivers should also adjust their speed to the actual road, traffic, lighting and visibility conditions.
W319 Does Not Mean Drivers Must Stop
W319 provides advance warning of a tunnel and does not itself require drivers to stop.
Drivers must stop only where another applicable traffic control, signal, road condition or instruction requires them to stop.
W319 and Tunnel Lighting
Road tunnels may have lighting systems that create a different visual environment from the road outside.
The transition between bright daylight and a darker enclosed space can affect what drivers see when approaching and entering a tunnel.
Drivers should remain attentive to the tunnel entrance, lane markings, other vehicles and any instructions displayed at the site.
W319 and Tunnel Headlights
The official purpose of W319 specifically refers to tunnels where the use of headlights may be required.
Drivers should follow the applicable traffic rules and any tunnel-specific requirements regarding vehicle lighting.
Using the required vehicle lighting can also help maintain visibility in lower-light tunnel conditions.
W319 at Short Tunnels
Even a relatively short tunnel can create a change in lighting and visibility.
The need for W319 depends on the applicable warning-sign criteria, including whether the tunnel presents a condition that requires advance warning and whether the entrance is sufficiently visible.
The sign should not be used unnecessarily where drivers can clearly see and appreciate the tunnel and the warning does not add useful information.
W319 at Long Tunnels
Long tunnels can create an extended enclosed-roadway environment where lighting, lane configuration, vehicle spacing and other conditions may differ from the roadway outside.
Additional tunnel-management signs or controls may be required depending on the characteristics of the tunnel. W319 provides the advance warning that the tunnel itself is ahead.
W319 on Mountain Roads
Mountain roads may include tunnels where the entrance is hidden by a bend, rock face or change in elevation.
In these situations, W319 can provide important advance information before drivers reach the tunnel entrance.
The sign position should follow the applicable advance-warning requirements and take visibility into account.
W319 on Urban Roads
Urban tunnels may be affected by buildings, retaining walls, road curves, traffic congestion and other infrastructure.
W319 can alert drivers to the tunnel before they reach the entrance, particularly where the tunnel cannot be seen clearly from an adequate distance.
W319 on Rural Roads
Rural tunnel approaches may have limited visibility because of terrain, vegetation or road alignment.
Where the tunnel entrance is not visible from at least 150 m in advance, the SARTSM specifically provides for W319 to be displayed.
W319 on Major Routes and Freeways
Tunnels on major roads and freeways can carry substantial traffic volumes and may require advance warning so that drivers have time to prepare for the change in environment.
The applicable sign size and placement should be selected according to the operating conditions and the relevant South African road traffic sign requirements.
W319 and Tunnel Traffic Management
W319 should be viewed as part of the wider traffic-management arrangement for the tunnel.
Depending on the tunnel, additional signs, road markings, signals, lighting systems, speed restrictions or other controls may be required.
W319 provides the advance warning; it does not replace any regulatory or operational controls that apply inside or at the entrance to the tunnel.
Temporary Tunnel Ahead Sign – TW319
The temporary version of W319 is designated TW319.
The SARTSM states that a temporary version of W319 is most unlikely to be used, but where a temporary sign is required it should be numbered and referred to as TW319.
Where used, a temporary W319 should follow the applicable temporary warning-sign requirements and form part of the relevant temporary traffic-management arrangement.
Temporary W319 Sign Colours
Under the general South African temporary warning-sign system:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
Permanent warning signs use a white background, while temporary warning signs use a yellow background.
W319 Sign Design and Colours
The permanent W319 warning sign uses the standard South African warning-sign colour arrangement:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Tunnel symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: White retroreflective
The triangular warning format provides a recognisable advance warning to approaching drivers.
Retroreflective W319 Signs
Retroreflective materials help warning signs remain visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights, particularly during lower-light conditions.
The official W319 specification identifies a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background for the permanent sign.
For public-road applications, the sign should be manufactured to the applicable South African road traffic sign specifications.
W319 Sign Visibility
A tunnel warning sign should be clearly visible to approaching road users before they reach the entrance.
Visibility can be affected by:
- Road curves
- Hills and changes in elevation
- Rock faces and retaining walls
- Trees and vegetation
- Buildings and structures
- Other roadside signs
- Advertising boards
- Poor lighting or weather conditions
The sign should be positioned and maintained so that its warning remains clear to approaching drivers.
W319 Sign Size
The appropriate W319 sign size depends on the road environment, operating speed, traffic volumes and other conditions.
The SARTSM general warning-sign guidance states that sign size should be suited to the conditions for which the sign is required and refers to the applicable dimensional requirements in Volume 4.
For public-road installations, the appropriate sign size should therefore be confirmed against the applicable SARTSM requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
W319 and Tunnel Entrance Safety
Approaching a tunnel can involve changes in visibility, lighting and traffic conditions.
A clearly positioned warning sign can help drivers identify the tunnel before reaching the entrance and prepare for the conditions ahead.
Additional tunnel controls may be required depending on the characteristics and operation of the tunnel.
W319 on Private Roads and Developments
Similar Tunnel Ahead warning signs may also be used on private roads and controlled properties where a roadway passes through a tunnel or enclosed road structure.
Examples may include:
- Private developments
- Industrial properties
- Mining operations
- Access roads
- Large infrastructure sites
- Tourism and recreational facilities
On private property, the sign can form part of the site's internal traffic-management system.
W319 in South Africa
The W319 Tunnel Ahead sign forms part of the South African road traffic warning-sign system under the South African Road Traffic Signs Manual.
For public-road use, the selection, application, size, placement, materials and installation of W319 should comply with the applicable SARTSM requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
Who May Need W319 Tunnel Ahead Signs?
W319 signage may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Infrastructure contractors
- Road construction contractors
- Mining operations
- Industrial facilities
- Tunnel operators
- Property developers
- Private infrastructure owners
- Traffic-management contractors
- Road maintenance contractors
- Facility managers
Benefits of Tunnel Ahead Warning Signs
- Warns drivers that a tunnel is ahead.
- Provides advance information before the tunnel entrance.
- Alerts drivers to a possible change in lighting and visibility.
- Can remind road users that headlights may be required.
- Can help drivers prepare for tunnel-specific traffic conditions.
- Can be particularly useful where the tunnel entrance is not visible from at least 150 m in advance.
- Can form part of a wider tunnel traffic-management arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions About W319 Road Signs
What does W319 mean?
W319 means Tunnel Ahead. It warns road users that a tunnel is present on the roadway ahead.
What is W319 used for?
W319 warns drivers of a tunnel ahead where the use of headlights may be required.
Is W319 a warning sign?
Yes. W319 is a symbolic warning sign in the South African road traffic sign system.
When should W319 be displayed?
It should be displayed before a tunnel where headlights may be required and where the applicable warning-sign criteria are met.
When is W319 specifically required because of visibility?
It should also be displayed when the tunnel entrance cannot be seen from a point at least 150 m in advance.
Does W319 mean I must switch on my headlights?
W319 warns that headlights may be required. Drivers must follow the applicable road rules, tunnel controls and lighting requirements.
Does W319 impose a speed limit?
No. W319 does not establish a speed limit. Any applicable speed limit is shown separately.
Does W319 mean I must stop?
No. W319 is an advance warning. Drivers must stop when another applicable traffic control or actual road condition requires them to stop.
How far before a tunnel should W319 be placed?
The SARTSM states that the distance depends on the operating speed of traffic and that Figure 3.1 should be used to determine the appropriate distance.
What are the general advance-warning distances?
The general SARTSM distances are 120 m at 60 km/h, 160 m at 80 km/h, 240 m at 100 km/h and 330 m at 120 km/h, subject to the applicable site conditions.
What is TW319?
TW319 is the temporary version of the W319 Tunnel warning sign.
Is TW319 commonly used?
No. The SARTSM states that a temporary W319 is most unlikely to be used, but provides the TW319 designation if required.
What colours does a permanent W319 sign use?
The permanent sign uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt tunnel symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does a temporary W319 sign use?
The temporary warning-sign arrangement uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
Can W319 be used on a rural road?
Yes. It can be used where a tunnel lies ahead and the applicable warning-sign criteria are met.
Can W319 be used on a private road?
Similar Tunnel Ahead warning signage may be used on private roads and controlled properties as part of an internal traffic-management system.
Can W319 be used at a tunnel where the entrance is clearly visible?
The need for the warning depends on the applicable SARTSM criteria, including the tunnel conditions and visibility of the entrance.
What other signs may be used near a tunnel?
Depending on the tunnel, additional regulatory, warning, directional and operational signs may be required for speed, lane use, vehicle restrictions, traffic control or other conditions.
Can Signs4SA supply W319 Tunnel Ahead signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W319 Tunnel Ahead signs and other warning, regulatory and traffic-management signage. Provide the required sign code, dimensions, quantity and installation requirements when requesting a quotation.
Order W319 Tunnel Ahead Road Signs
Need W319 Tunnel Ahead signs for a public road, mining operation, industrial facility, infrastructure project, private development or traffic-management application?
Contact Signs4SA with your required sign code, dimensions, quantity and installation details to request a quotation.
One important feature of Tunnel 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 Tunnel ahead signs are also designed with reflective materials that make them visible at night.
Another important feature of Tunnel 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 Tunnel ahead
Tunnel Ahead – W319 Road Sign
The W319 Tunnel Ahead road sign is a warning sign used to alert drivers and other road users that a tunnel is ahead.
The sign is particularly important where the tunnel changes the normal driving environment, including situations where headlights may be required or where the tunnel entrance is not clearly visible from a sufficient distance.
W319 gives approaching drivers advance information so they can prepare for the tunnel and pay attention to the road conditions, lighting and traffic controls ahead.
What Does the W319 Road Sign Mean?
W319 means Tunnel Ahead. It warns road users that a tunnel is present on the roadway ahead and that the use of headlights may be required.
W319 is a warning sign. It does not itself impose a speed limit or require drivers to stop. Drivers must continue to obey all applicable speed-limit signs, traffic signals, road markings and other traffic controls.
Why Is the W319 Tunnel Warning Sign Important?
A tunnel can cause a sudden change in lighting conditions as drivers move from an open roadway into an enclosed section.
Drivers may also need to adjust their attention to the tunnel environment, including lane markings, traffic conditions, tunnel lighting and any signs or controls installed at the entrance.
W319 provides advance warning so drivers know that a tunnel is approaching and can prepare before reaching the entrance.
When Should W319 Be Used?
The South African Road Traffic Signs Manual states that W319 should be used to warn road users of the presence of a tunnel on the roadway ahead in which the use of headlights may be required.
W319 should also be displayed where the tunnel entrance is not visible from a point at least 150 m in advance of the entrance.
This makes W319 particularly relevant where the tunnel entrance is hidden by a road curve, hill, vegetation, structures or another feature of the roadway.
Where Is W319 Used?
W319 may be appropriate on approaches to tunnels on:
- National and provincial roads
- Urban roads
- Rural roads
- Mountain routes
- Roads through built-up areas
- Expressways and major routes
- Industrial access roads with tunnels
- Private roads with enclosed roadway sections
The actual use depends on the tunnel, road layout, visibility and applicable road traffic sign requirements.
W319 and Headlights
One of the specific reasons for the W319 warning is that the tunnel ahead may require the use of headlights.
Moving from daylight into a darker tunnel can reduce visibility, especially during the transition at the entrance. Drivers should therefore pay attention to the tunnel environment and use their headlights where required by the road rules, tunnel controls or prevailing conditions.
W319 and Tunnel Entrance Visibility
The SARTSM specifically requires W319 to be displayed when the tunnel entrance cannot be seen from at least 150 m in advance.
This can apply where the approach road curves before the entrance or where terrain, vegetation or structures prevent drivers from seeing the tunnel from a suitable distance.
Where a tunnel entrance is clearly visible from well in advance, the need for the warning sign should be considered in accordance with the applicable signing criteria.
W319 Sign Placement
W319 should be displayed in advance of the tunnel hazard.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be positioned at a distance that depends on the operating speed of traffic, with Figure 3.1 used to determine the appropriate distance.
The general advance-warning distances in the SARTSM are based on operating speed. As a general reference:
- 60 km/h: 120 m
- 80 km/h: 160 m
- 100 km/h: 240 m
- 120 km/h: 330 m
These are general advance-warning distances and the actual placement should take the specific road environment, visibility and applicable requirements into account.
W319 and Restricted Visibility
Where the standard position does not provide adequate visibility of the warning sign, the warning-sign location should be adjusted in accordance with the general SARTSM visibility requirements.
Advance warning is intended to give approaching drivers enough opportunity to recognise the tunnel warning before reaching the entrance.
How Should Drivers Respond to a W319 Sign?
Drivers approaching a W319 sign should become alert to the tunnel ahead and prepare for the change in driving environment.
Drivers should:
- Watch for the tunnel entrance.
- Use headlights where required.
- Observe the applicable speed limit.
- Pay attention to lane markings and traffic-control signs.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Watch for changes in visibility and lighting.
- Be prepared for slower-moving or stopped traffic inside or near the tunnel.
- Follow any tunnel-specific instructions or restrictions.
W319 Does Not Set a Speed Limit
W319 is a warning sign and does not itself establish a speed limit.
Any regulatory speed restriction applying to the tunnel should be displayed separately using the appropriate speed-limit sign.
Drivers should also adjust their speed to the actual road, traffic, lighting and visibility conditions.
W319 Does Not Mean Drivers Must Stop
W319 provides advance warning of a tunnel and does not itself require drivers to stop.
Drivers must stop only where another applicable traffic control, signal, road condition or instruction requires them to stop.
W319 and Tunnel Lighting
Road tunnels may have lighting systems that create a different visual environment from the road outside.
The transition between bright daylight and a darker enclosed space can affect what drivers see when approaching and entering a tunnel.
Drivers should remain attentive to the tunnel entrance, lane markings, other vehicles and any instructions displayed at the site.
W319 and Tunnel Headlights
The official purpose of W319 specifically refers to tunnels where the use of headlights may be required.
Drivers should follow the applicable traffic rules and any tunnel-specific requirements regarding vehicle lighting.
Using the required vehicle lighting can also help maintain visibility in lower-light tunnel conditions.
W319 at Short Tunnels
Even a relatively short tunnel can create a change in lighting and visibility.
The need for W319 depends on the applicable warning-sign criteria, including whether the tunnel presents a condition that requires advance warning and whether the entrance is sufficiently visible.
The sign should not be used unnecessarily where drivers can clearly see and appreciate the tunnel and the warning does not add useful information.
W319 at Long Tunnels
Long tunnels can create an extended enclosed-roadway environment where lighting, lane configuration, vehicle spacing and other conditions may differ from the roadway outside.
Additional tunnel-management signs or controls may be required depending on the characteristics of the tunnel. W319 provides the advance warning that the tunnel itself is ahead.
W319 on Mountain Roads
Mountain roads may include tunnels where the entrance is hidden by a bend, rock face or change in elevation.
In these situations, W319 can provide important advance information before drivers reach the tunnel entrance.
The sign position should follow the applicable advance-warning requirements and take visibility into account.
W319 on Urban Roads
Urban tunnels may be affected by buildings, retaining walls, road curves, traffic congestion and other infrastructure.
W319 can alert drivers to the tunnel before they reach the entrance, particularly where the tunnel cannot be seen clearly from an adequate distance.
W319 on Rural Roads
Rural tunnel approaches may have limited visibility because of terrain, vegetation or road alignment.
Where the tunnel entrance is not visible from at least 150 m in advance, the SARTSM specifically provides for W319 to be displayed.
W319 on Major Routes and Freeways
Tunnels on major roads and freeways can carry substantial traffic volumes and may require advance warning so that drivers have time to prepare for the change in environment.
The applicable sign size and placement should be selected according to the operating conditions and the relevant South African road traffic sign requirements.
W319 and Tunnel Traffic Management
W319 should be viewed as part of the wider traffic-management arrangement for the tunnel.
Depending on the tunnel, additional signs, road markings, signals, lighting systems, speed restrictions or other controls may be required.
W319 provides the advance warning; it does not replace any regulatory or operational controls that apply inside or at the entrance to the tunnel.
Temporary Tunnel Ahead Sign – TW319
The temporary version of W319 is designated TW319.
The SARTSM states that a temporary version of W319 is most unlikely to be used, but where a temporary sign is required it should be numbered and referred to as TW319.
Where used, a temporary W319 should follow the applicable temporary warning-sign requirements and form part of the relevant temporary traffic-management arrangement.
Temporary W319 Sign Colours
Under the general South African temporary warning-sign system:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
Permanent warning signs use a white background, while temporary warning signs use a yellow background.
W319 Sign Design and Colours
The permanent W319 warning sign uses the standard South African warning-sign colour arrangement:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Tunnel symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: White retroreflective
The triangular warning format provides a recognisable advance warning to approaching drivers.
Retroreflective W319 Signs
Retroreflective materials help warning signs remain visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights, particularly during lower-light conditions.
The official W319 specification identifies a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background for the permanent sign.
For public-road applications, the sign should be manufactured to the applicable South African road traffic sign specifications.
W319 Sign Visibility
A tunnel warning sign should be clearly visible to approaching road users before they reach the entrance.
Visibility can be affected by:
- Road curves
- Hills and changes in elevation
- Rock faces and retaining walls
- Trees and vegetation
- Buildings and structures
- Other roadside signs
- Advertising boards
- Poor lighting or weather conditions
The sign should be positioned and maintained so that its warning remains clear to approaching drivers.
W319 Sign Size
The appropriate W319 sign size depends on the road environment, operating speed, traffic volumes and other conditions.
The SARTSM general warning-sign guidance states that sign size should be suited to the conditions for which the sign is required and refers to the applicable dimensional requirements in Volume 4.
For public-road installations, the appropriate sign size should therefore be confirmed against the applicable SARTSM requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
W319 and Tunnel Entrance Safety
Approaching a tunnel can involve changes in visibility, lighting and traffic conditions.
A clearly positioned warning sign can help drivers identify the tunnel before reaching the entrance and prepare for the conditions ahead.
Additional tunnel controls may be required depending on the characteristics and operation of the tunnel.
W319 on Private Roads and Developments
Similar Tunnel Ahead warning signs may also be used on private roads and controlled properties where a roadway passes through a tunnel or enclosed road structure.
Examples may include:
- Private developments
- Industrial properties
- Mining operations
- Access roads
- Large infrastructure sites
- Tourism and recreational facilities
On private property, the sign can form part of the site's internal traffic-management system.
W319 in South Africa
The W319 Tunnel Ahead sign forms part of the South African road traffic warning-sign system under the South African Road Traffic Signs Manual.
For public-road use, the selection, application, size, placement, materials and installation of W319 should comply with the applicable SARTSM requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
Who May Need W319 Tunnel Ahead Signs?
W319 signage may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Infrastructure contractors
- Road construction contractors
- Mining operations
- Industrial facilities
- Tunnel operators
- Property developers
- Private infrastructure owners
- Traffic-management contractors
- Road maintenance contractors
- Facility managers
Benefits of Tunnel Ahead Warning Signs
- Warns drivers that a tunnel is ahead.
- Provides advance information before the tunnel entrance.
- Alerts drivers to a possible change in lighting and visibility.
- Can remind road users that headlights may be required.
- Can help drivers prepare for tunnel-specific traffic conditions.
- Can be particularly useful where the tunnel entrance is not visible from at least 150 m in advance.
- Can form part of a wider tunnel traffic-management arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions About W319 Road Signs
What does W319 mean?
W319 means Tunnel Ahead. It warns road users that a tunnel is present on the roadway ahead.
What is W319 used for?
W319 warns drivers of a tunnel ahead where the use of headlights may be required.
Is W319 a warning sign?
Yes. W319 is a symbolic warning sign in the South African road traffic sign system.
When should W319 be displayed?
It should be displayed before a tunnel where headlights may be required and where the applicable warning-sign criteria are met.
When is W319 specifically required because of visibility?
It should also be displayed when the tunnel entrance cannot be seen from a point at least 150 m in advance.
Does W319 mean I must switch on my headlights?
W319 warns that headlights may be required. Drivers must follow the applicable road rules, tunnel controls and lighting requirements.
Does W319 impose a speed limit?
No. W319 does not establish a speed limit. Any applicable speed limit is shown separately.
Does W319 mean I must stop?
No. W319 is an advance warning. Drivers must stop when another applicable traffic control or actual road condition requires them to stop.
How far before a tunnel should W319 be placed?
The SARTSM states that the distance depends on the operating speed of traffic and that Figure 3.1 should be used to determine the appropriate distance.
What are the general advance-warning distances?
The general SARTSM distances are 120 m at 60 km/h, 160 m at 80 km/h, 240 m at 100 km/h and 330 m at 120 km/h, subject to the applicable site conditions.
What is TW319?
TW319 is the temporary version of the W319 Tunnel warning sign.
Is TW319 commonly used?
No. The SARTSM states that a temporary W319 is most unlikely to be used, but provides the TW319 designation if required.
What colours does a permanent W319 sign use?
The permanent sign uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt tunnel symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does a temporary W319 sign use?
The temporary warning-sign arrangement uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
Can W319 be used on a rural road?
Yes. It can be used where a tunnel lies ahead and the applicable warning-sign criteria are met.
Can W319 be used on a private road?
Similar Tunnel Ahead warning signage may be used on private roads and controlled properties as part of an internal traffic-management system.
Can W319 be used at a tunnel where the entrance is clearly visible?
The need for the warning depends on the applicable SARTSM criteria, including the tunnel conditions and visibility of the entrance.
What other signs may be used near a tunnel?
Depending on the tunnel, additional regulatory, warning, directional and operational signs may be required for speed, lane use, vehicle restrictions, traffic control or other conditions.
Can Signs4SA supply W319 Tunnel Ahead signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W319 Tunnel Ahead signs and other warning, regulatory and traffic-management signage. Provide the required sign code, dimensions, quantity and installation requirements when requesting a quotation.
Order W319 Tunnel Ahead Road Signs
Need W319 Tunnel Ahead signs for a public road, mining operation, industrial facility, infrastructure project, private development or traffic-management application?
Contact Signs4SA with your required sign code, dimensions, quantity and installation details to request a quotation.
One popular type of road sign is the Tunnel ahead sign. This type of sign is used to provide drivers with important information about the road ahead, such as directions, speed limits, and potential hazards.
Tunnel ahead_ signs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are made from a range of materials, including metal, plastic, and reflective materials. They can be customized to meet the specific needs of a particular roadway or location, including the addition of logos, graphics, and text.
One important feature of Tunnel 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 Tunnel ahead signs are also designed with reflective materials that make them visible at night.
Another important feature of Tunnel 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.
For businesses and organizations that need to create custom road signs, working with a reputable sign company can ensure that their signs are of high quality and meet all necessary standards and regulations. Signs4sa can provide expert advice on design, materials, and installation, and can help businesses ensure that their signs are installed safely and effectively.
Overall, Tunnel ahead signs are an important tool for ensuring road safety and providing drivers with the information they need to navigate effectively. By working with a professional sign company to create and install these signs, businesses and organizations can help ensure that their messages are seen and understood by drivers, and help to improve safety on the road.