Warning
Warning - W339
Road Signs - W339
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Warning
Category:
Safety Sign Code:
- W339
Product Description
General Warning – W339 Road Sign
The W339 General Warning road sign is a South African warning sign used to alert drivers and other road users to a general or random hazard on the roadway ahead.
The official South African road traffic sign designation is W339 GENERAL WARNING. Unlike warning signs that identify a specific hazard, W339 is used when the hazard is general, unusual or not adequately described by another specific warning sign.
The temporary version is TW339. The SARTSM states that the temporary form is the most common application because it is suitable for short-term and unplanned hazards that require drivers to take additional care.
What Does the W339 Road Sign Mean?
W339 means General Warning. It alerts road users that a hazard of a general or random nature exists on the roadway ahead.
The sign does not identify one specific hazard by itself. Instead, it provides a general warning that should normally be supported by additional information explaining the actual hazard.
For this reason, W339 is different from specific warning signs such as W331 Uneven Roadway, W333 Slippery Road, W334/W335 Falling Rocks or W336 Roadworks.
Why Is W339 Important?
Road hazards can sometimes occur unexpectedly and may not fit neatly into one of the standard specific warning categories.
A general warning sign provides a flexible way of communicating an unusual hazard while drivers approach the affected section.
This is particularly useful for incidents and temporary conditions where a rapid warning is needed before a permanent or more specific traffic-management solution can be provided.
When Is W339 Used?
The SARTSM states that W339 is used to warn road users about a hazard of a general or random nature in the roadway ahead.
The most common use should be the temporary TW339, particularly when an unplanned event creates a normally short-term hazard.
Examples specifically identified by the SARTSM include:
- Fallen trees
- Road subsidence
- Burst water mains
- Accidents
- Potholes
- Other unexpected temporary roadway hazards
The actual hazard should be identified with a suitable supplementary information plate wherever possible.
W339 Is a General Warning, Not a Specific Hazard Sign
W339 should not be used simply because a road has an ordinary hazard that already has its own specific warning sign.
Where a recognised specific warning sign accurately describes the hazard, that specific sign should generally be considered instead.
W339 is most useful when the hazard is general, random, unusual or temporary and does not have an appropriate dedicated warning symbol.
W339 vs Specific Warning Signs
There is an important difference between a general warning and a specific warning sign.
- W339: General or random hazard that requires additional explanation.
- W331: Uneven or potholed roadway.
- W333: Abnormally slippery roadway.
- W334/W335: Falling rocks.
- W336: Roadworks.
- W332: Speed humps.
The choice of sign should match the actual hazard and applicable South African road traffic sign requirements.
W339 and Supplementary Information Plates
A key part of using W339 is the supplementary information plate.
The SARTSM states that W339 should be used with an appropriate IN11 supplementary plate, and that the permanent W339 sign should always be accompanied by an appropriate supplementary plate.
Possible messages include:
- Ice
- Snow
- Potholes
- Accident
- Another relevant message describing the actual hazard
This additional message tells drivers what the general warning actually refers to.
W339 “Potholes” Warning
W339 can be used with a supplementary plate stating “Potholes” where the pothole hazard needs to be communicated using the general warning arrangement.
For short-term pothole conditions, TW339 + “Potholes” can be particularly useful as a temporary warning arrangement.
Where a more established uneven or potholed roadway condition is present and the applicable requirements are met, W331 Uneven Roadway may be the more specific warning sign.
TW339 Temporary General Warning
TW339 is the temporary version of the General Warning sign.
The SARTSM identifies TW339 as the most common application of the general warning symbol because temporary and unexpected hazards can arise quickly and may only remain for a short period.
The temporary sign can be portable so that it can be quickly erected, moved or removed as the hazard changes.
Why Is TW339 Commonly Portable?
Temporary hazards can change quickly. A fallen tree may be removed, an accident may be cleared, a burst water main may be repaired or a damaged road section may be temporarily secured.
For this reason, the SARTSM states that TW339 will commonly be portable, allowing it to be quickly placed, moved or removed as the situation requires.
Temporary Hazards That May Use TW339
TW339 may be appropriate for a range of short-term hazards, including:
- Fallen trees
- Unexpected road obstructions
- Road subsidence
- Burst water mains
- Vehicle accidents
- Potholes requiring short-term warning
- Temporary debris
- Other unexpected roadway hazards
The supplementary message should describe the actual condition wherever possible.
TW339 and Road Accidents
Vehicle accidents can create an unexpected hazard for approaching road users, particularly where damaged vehicles, debris, emergency vehicles or traffic-management activities occupy part of the roadway.
TW339 can be used as part of the temporary warning arrangement where a general warning is appropriate.
The supplementary message can identify the nature of the incident when required.
TW339 and Fallen Trees
A fallen tree or large branch can unexpectedly obstruct a roadway, particularly after severe weather.
TW339 can provide advance warning while the obstruction is being dealt with.
The sign can be moved or removed once the hazard has been cleared, which is one reason the temporary form is useful for incident response.
TW339 and Road Subsidence
Road subsidence can create a sudden change in the roadway surface and may require traffic to slow down, change position or be temporarily controlled.
Where the condition represents a general temporary hazard, TW339 can be used with a suitable supplementary message.
TW339 and Burst Water Mains
A burst water main can affect the roadway through flooding, erosion, damaged pavement or road excavation.
The SARTSM specifically identifies burst water mains as an example of a random temporary hazard for which TW339 may be used.
Additional traffic-management measures may be needed depending on the severity of the incident.
TW339 and Potholes
Potholes are another example identified by the SARTSM for the use of a general warning arrangement.
A supplementary plate displaying “Potholes” can explain the reason for the warning.
For short-term conditions, this arrangement may provide a practical temporary warning while repair work or further assessment is carried out.
TW339 and Roadworks
TW339 may also be used at roadworks sites or detours when a general warning is considered more appropriate than the standard TW336 Roadworks warning sign.
This allows the traffic-management arrangement to reflect an unusual hazard that is not adequately described by the normal roadworks warning.
TW339 vs TW336 Roadworks
- TW336: Specifically warns of roadworks.
- TW339: General warning for a random or unusual hazard.
Where the roadworks themselves are the hazard, TW336 may be appropriate. Where an unusual temporary hazard exists at a roadworks site and a general warning is more suitable, TW339 may be considered.
W339 and Night-Time Warning
The SARTSM allows TW339 to be used together with a yellow flashing light at night as provided for in the relevant requirements.
This can provide additional attention to a temporary hazard where night-time conditions make the roadway situation more difficult to identify.
The exact installation should follow the applicable temporary traffic-control requirements.
W339 Sign Placement
W339 and TW339 should be positioned in advance of the hazard.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be located according to the applicable Table 3.1 requirements.
The final placement should also take account of operating speed, visibility, road alignment, traffic conditions and the nature of the hazard.
W339 and Visibility
Because the purpose of W339 is to give drivers advance warning of an unusual hazard, the sign needs to be clearly visible before the affected section is reached.
Potential visibility problems include:
- Road curves
- Hills and crests
- Vegetation
- Buildings
- Other road signs
- Advertising structures
- Emergency equipment
- Poor sign positioning
Temporary signs should also be checked regularly because their position can change through wind, traffic activity, maintenance work or changes at the incident site.
Permanent W339 Use
The SARTSM states that the use of the permanent W339 General Warning sign should be strictly limited.
When W339 is used permanently, it should be accompanied by an appropriate IN11 supplementary plate explaining the hazard.
This helps prevent the general warning sign from becoming too vague for drivers who need to understand what they are approaching.
Why Permanent W339 Is Limited
Permanent road hazards should generally be communicated with the most appropriate specific warning sign available.
A general warning symbol does not identify the particular hazard on its own, which is why permanent use is restricted and requires additional explanatory information.
W339 and Specific Hazard Identification
The effectiveness of a general warning arrangement depends on drivers receiving enough information about the actual hazard.
For this reason, the supplementary message should be relevant, clear and appropriate to the condition that exists on the roadway.
W339 and Temporary Incident Management
TW339 can be particularly useful for maintenance teams, incident-response units and traffic-management personnel who need to warn approaching road users about an unexpected roadway condition.
The portable nature of the sign allows it to be deployed quickly when a hazard occurs and removed when the road returns to normal.
W339 and Road Maintenance Teams
Road maintenance and incident-response teams may encounter unexpected conditions that require immediate temporary warning.
Examples include potholes, debris, damaged pavement, fallen trees, flooding or other temporary obstructions.
Where a general warning is appropriate, TW339 with a suitable supplementary message can form part of the temporary traffic-management response.
W339 and Emergency Response
Emergency incidents can change the normal traffic pattern quickly.
Where an incident creates a random hazard ahead, TW339 can be used to warn approaching road users while emergency or maintenance teams manage the situation.
Other temporary traffic-control devices may also be required depending on the circumstances.
W339 and Road Debris
Unexpected debris on the roadway can create a temporary hazard for approaching vehicles.
Where the condition is general or random and requires advance warning, TW339 can be considered with an appropriate supplementary message.
W339 and Flooding
Temporary flooding can create a changing road hazard, particularly where water covers part of the road surface or affects visibility of the roadway.
Where the hazard is suitable for a general warning arrangement, TW339 may be used together with appropriate information describing the condition.
W339 and Weather-Related Incidents
Severe weather can produce unexpected roadway hazards such as fallen trees, flooding, debris or damaged pavement.
TW339 can provide a temporary general warning while the condition is being assessed or cleared.
W339 and Permanent Road Conditions
Where a hazardous condition becomes permanent, the warning arrangement should be reviewed.
A specific warning sign may be more appropriate if the hazard can be identified clearly and is covered by the South African road traffic sign system.
Permanent W339 use should remain limited and should include appropriate supplementary information.
W339 Sign Design and Colours
The standard permanent W339 warning sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: White retroreflective
The symbol is a black exclamation mark inside the triangular warning sign.
Temporary TW339 Sign Design and Colours
The temporary TW339 warning sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
The yellow background identifies the sign as a temporary warning sign.
W339 Retroreflective Materials
The official sign specification provides for retroreflective materials on the warning-sign elements.
Retroreflective materials help the sign remain visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights, particularly during night-time and low-light conditions.
Public-road signs should be manufactured according to the applicable South African road traffic sign specifications.
TW339 Portable Sign Requirements
Because TW339 is commonly used as a portable sign, the SARTSM provides an additional requirement for the reverse side of a portable TW339.
The reverse side should have alternating black and yellow non-retroreflective horizontal stripes, 150 mm wide.
This requirement applies to portable temporary signs and forms part of the specified appearance of the temporary installation.
W339 Sign Size
The appropriate size of W339 depends on the road environment and the applicable South African traffic-sign requirements.
Factors that may influence sign selection include:
- Operating speed
- Road classification
- Required viewing distance
- Traffic conditions
- Roadside environment
- Available installation space
For public-road applications, the final size should be selected according to the applicable SARTSM requirements and the responsible road authority.
W339 and Driver Response
Drivers who see W339 should be prepared for the hazard described by the supplementary information plate or for an unusual roadway condition ahead.
Drivers should:
- Reduce speed when appropriate for the conditions.
- Read and follow supplementary information.
- Watch carefully for the actual hazard.
- Maintain proper control of the vehicle.
- Allow additional following distance where appropriate.
- Avoid sudden steering or braking unless necessary.
- Follow any additional temporary traffic controls.
The correct response depends on the actual hazard and surrounding traffic conditions.
Does W339 Set a Speed Limit?
No. W339 is a warning sign and does not itself establish a legal speed limit.
It warns drivers that a general hazard exists ahead and that additional care may be required.
Where a separate regulatory speed restriction applies, the appropriate regulatory speed-limit sign is responsible for communicating that restriction.
W339 on Public Roads in South Africa
On public roads, W339 and TW339 should be used according to the applicable South African road traffic sign requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
Temporary traffic-management arrangements should reflect the actual incident or hazard and should be changed when conditions change.
W339 on Private Roads and Properties
Similar general warning signage can also be useful on private roads and controlled properties where an unusual or temporary roadway hazard requires communication to drivers and other authorised road users.
Potential applications include:
- Industrial properties
- Warehouses
- Construction sites
- Private estates
- Mining properties
- Farms
- Game reserves
- Hotels and lodges
- Commercial properties
- Private access roads
On private property, the sign can form part of an internal traffic-management system based on the actual conditions at the site.
W339 for Construction Sites
Construction environments can contain changing hazards that are not always adequately described by a single specific warning sign.
Where an unusual temporary hazard occurs, TW339 may be considered as part of the site traffic-management arrangement.
Where the construction work itself is the primary hazard, the appropriate roadworks signs should also be considered.
W339 for Mining and Industrial Sites
Mining and industrial environments may experience temporary roadway hazards such as debris, damaged surfaces, vehicle incidents, flooding or unexpected obstructions.
TW339 can be useful where a general warning is more appropriate than a specific hazard symbol.
W339 for Shopping Centres and Commercial Properties
Commercial properties can experience temporary traffic hazards caused by maintenance, deliveries, accidents, construction work, flooding or other unexpected conditions.
Where appropriate, a general warning sign with a clear supplementary message can help communicate the temporary condition to drivers.
W339 for Parking Areas and Access Roads
Private parking areas and access roads may occasionally require temporary warnings for unusual hazards such as damaged pavement, fallen objects, accidents or maintenance activities.
The appropriate sign should be selected according to the actual hazard and the property's traffic-management requirements.
Who May Need W339 General Warning Signs?
W339 and TW339 signage may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Road maintenance contractors
- Traffic-management contractors
- Emergency-response teams
- Road construction contractors
- Mining operations
- Industrial facilities
- Property managers
- Construction-site managers
- Private estate managers
- Commercial property owners
Benefits of W339 General Warning Signs
- Provides a flexible warning for general or random roadway hazards.
- Can be deployed quickly for unexpected temporary incidents.
- TW339 can be portable and moved as the hazard changes.
- Can be combined with supplementary information describing the specific hazard.
- Can be used for incidents such as fallen trees, accidents, subsidence and burst water mains.
- Can provide temporary warning for potholes and other short-term hazards.
- Can be used at suitable roadworks or detours where a general warning is more appropriate.
- Can be used with a yellow flashing light at night where the applicable requirements permit.
Frequently Asked Questions About W339 Road Signs
What does W339 mean?
W339 means General Warning. It warns road users of a general or random hazard on the roadway ahead.
What is the official name of W339?
The official South African designation is GENERAL WARNING.
What does the W339 symbol mean?
The black exclamation mark indicates that a general or non-specific hazard exists ahead.
Is W339 used for every road hazard?
No. Specific warning signs should generally be considered when they accurately describe the particular hazard.
What is TW339?
TW339 is the temporary General Warning sign, commonly used for short-term and unexpected roadway hazards.
When is TW339 used?
It may be used for temporary hazards such as fallen trees, subsidence, burst water mains, accidents and potholes.
Can W339 be used for potholes?
Yes. A general warning arrangement can use W339 or TW339 with a supplementary plate stating “Potholes”, particularly for temporary conditions.
Is W331 different from W339?
Yes. W331 specifically warns about an uneven or potholed roadway, while W339 provides a general warning for a random or non-specific hazard.
Can W339 be used for an accident?
Yes. The SARTSM identifies an accident as an example of a temporary hazard for which TW339 may be used.
Can W339 be used for fallen trees?
Yes. Fallen trees are specifically identified as an example of a temporary random hazard suitable for TW339.
Can W339 be used for burst water mains?
Yes. Burst water mains are specifically identified by the SARTSM as an example of a random temporary roadway hazard.
Does W339 need a supplementary plate?
Yes. The SARTSM states that permanent W339 use must include an appropriate supplementary information plate. TW339 should also use a relevant message wherever possible.
What messages can appear below W339?
Examples include “Ice”, “Snow”, “Potholes” and “Accident”, depending on the actual hazard.
Can W339 be permanent?
Yes, but permanent use should be strictly limited and accompanied by an appropriate supplementary information plate.
Why is TW339 more common than W339?
TW339 is particularly suited to unexpected short-term hazards where a portable warning can be quickly erected and removed.
Is TW339 portable?
Yes. The SARTSM states that TW339 will commonly be portable so it can be quickly erected, moved or removed.
Can TW339 be used at roadworks?
Yes. TW339 may be used at roadworks or detours where a general warning is considered more appropriate than TW336 Roadworks.
What is the difference between W339 and W336?
W339 gives a general warning about an unusual or random hazard, while W336 specifically warns about roadworks.
Can W339 be used at night?
TW339 may be used with a yellow flashing light at night where the applicable requirements provide for this arrangement.
What colours does permanent W339 use?
Permanent W339 uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does TW339 use?
TW339 uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
What markings are required on the back of a portable TW339?
The reverse side has alternating black and yellow non-retroreflective horizontal stripes that are 150 mm wide.
Where should W339 be placed?
It should be positioned in advance of the hazard at a distance determined according to the applicable SARTSM requirements, including Table 3.1.
Does W339 impose a speed limit?
No. W339 is a warning sign and does not itself establish a legal speed limit.
Can W339 be used on private property?
Similar general warning signage can be used on private roads and controlled properties as part of an appropriate internal traffic-management system.
Can W339 be used on construction sites?
Yes. TW339 can be used for suitable temporary hazards at construction and roadworks sites.
Can W339 be used with other signs?
Yes. A supplementary information plate is an important part of the W339 arrangement, and other warning or regulatory signs may be required depending on the site.
Is W339 a regulatory sign?
No. W339 is part of the W-series warning signs.
What is the difference between W339 and a specific warning sign?
W339 gives a general warning, while specific warning signs identify hazards such as speed humps, slippery roads, uneven roads or falling rocks.
Can Signs4SA supply W339 signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W339 General Warning signs, temporary TW339 signs and supplementary information plates for different traffic-management applications.
Order W339 General Warning Signs
Need W339 General Warning or TW339 Temporary General Warning signs for a road incident, potholes, fallen trees, construction area, industrial site, private property or temporary traffic-management application?
Signs4SA can assist with general warning signs and supplementary information plates that communicate the specific hazard to approaching road users.
Contact Signs4SA with the W339 or TW339 code, required message, quantity, sign size, material and installation requirements to request a quotation.
One important feature of Warning 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 Warning signs are also designed with reflective materials that make them visible at night.
Another important feature of Warning 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 Warning
General Warning – W339 Road Sign
The W339 General Warning road sign is a South African warning sign used to alert drivers and other road users to a general or random hazard on the roadway ahead.
The official South African road traffic sign designation is W339 GENERAL WARNING. Unlike warning signs that identify a specific hazard, W339 is used when the hazard is general, unusual or not adequately described by another specific warning sign.
The temporary version is TW339. The SARTSM states that the temporary form is the most common application because it is suitable for short-term and unplanned hazards that require drivers to take additional care.
What Does the W339 Road Sign Mean?
W339 means General Warning. It alerts road users that a hazard of a general or random nature exists on the roadway ahead.
The sign does not identify one specific hazard by itself. Instead, it provides a general warning that should normally be supported by additional information explaining the actual hazard.
For this reason, W339 is different from specific warning signs such as W331 Uneven Roadway, W333 Slippery Road, W334/W335 Falling Rocks or W336 Roadworks.
Why Is W339 Important?
Road hazards can sometimes occur unexpectedly and may not fit neatly into one of the standard specific warning categories.
A general warning sign provides a flexible way of communicating an unusual hazard while drivers approach the affected section.
This is particularly useful for incidents and temporary conditions where a rapid warning is needed before a permanent or more specific traffic-management solution can be provided.
When Is W339 Used?
The SARTSM states that W339 is used to warn road users about a hazard of a general or random nature in the roadway ahead.
The most common use should be the temporary TW339, particularly when an unplanned event creates a normally short-term hazard.
Examples specifically identified by the SARTSM include:
- Fallen trees
- Road subsidence
- Burst water mains
- Accidents
- Potholes
- Other unexpected temporary roadway hazards
The actual hazard should be identified with a suitable supplementary information plate wherever possible.
W339 Is a General Warning, Not a Specific Hazard Sign
W339 should not be used simply because a road has an ordinary hazard that already has its own specific warning sign.
Where a recognised specific warning sign accurately describes the hazard, that specific sign should generally be considered instead.
W339 is most useful when the hazard is general, random, unusual or temporary and does not have an appropriate dedicated warning symbol.
W339 vs Specific Warning Signs
There is an important difference between a general warning and a specific warning sign.
- W339: General or random hazard that requires additional explanation.
- W331: Uneven or potholed roadway.
- W333: Abnormally slippery roadway.
- W334/W335: Falling rocks.
- W336: Roadworks.
- W332: Speed humps.
The choice of sign should match the actual hazard and applicable South African road traffic sign requirements.
W339 and Supplementary Information Plates
A key part of using W339 is the supplementary information plate.
The SARTSM states that W339 should be used with an appropriate IN11 supplementary plate, and that the permanent W339 sign should always be accompanied by an appropriate supplementary plate.
Possible messages include:
- Ice
- Snow
- Potholes
- Accident
- Another relevant message describing the actual hazard
This additional message tells drivers what the general warning actually refers to.
W339 “Potholes” Warning
W339 can be used with a supplementary plate stating “Potholes” where the pothole hazard needs to be communicated using the general warning arrangement.
For short-term pothole conditions, TW339 + “Potholes” can be particularly useful as a temporary warning arrangement.
Where a more established uneven or potholed roadway condition is present and the applicable requirements are met, W331 Uneven Roadway may be the more specific warning sign.
TW339 Temporary General Warning
TW339 is the temporary version of the General Warning sign.
The SARTSM identifies TW339 as the most common application of the general warning symbol because temporary and unexpected hazards can arise quickly and may only remain for a short period.
The temporary sign can be portable so that it can be quickly erected, moved or removed as the hazard changes.
Why Is TW339 Commonly Portable?
Temporary hazards can change quickly. A fallen tree may be removed, an accident may be cleared, a burst water main may be repaired or a damaged road section may be temporarily secured.
For this reason, the SARTSM states that TW339 will commonly be portable, allowing it to be quickly placed, moved or removed as the situation requires.
Temporary Hazards That May Use TW339
TW339 may be appropriate for a range of short-term hazards, including:
- Fallen trees
- Unexpected road obstructions
- Road subsidence
- Burst water mains
- Vehicle accidents
- Potholes requiring short-term warning
- Temporary debris
- Other unexpected roadway hazards
The supplementary message should describe the actual condition wherever possible.
TW339 and Road Accidents
Vehicle accidents can create an unexpected hazard for approaching road users, particularly where damaged vehicles, debris, emergency vehicles or traffic-management activities occupy part of the roadway.
TW339 can be used as part of the temporary warning arrangement where a general warning is appropriate.
The supplementary message can identify the nature of the incident when required.
TW339 and Fallen Trees
A fallen tree or large branch can unexpectedly obstruct a roadway, particularly after severe weather.
TW339 can provide advance warning while the obstruction is being dealt with.
The sign can be moved or removed once the hazard has been cleared, which is one reason the temporary form is useful for incident response.
TW339 and Road Subsidence
Road subsidence can create a sudden change in the roadway surface and may require traffic to slow down, change position or be temporarily controlled.
Where the condition represents a general temporary hazard, TW339 can be used with a suitable supplementary message.
TW339 and Burst Water Mains
A burst water main can affect the roadway through flooding, erosion, damaged pavement or road excavation.
The SARTSM specifically identifies burst water mains as an example of a random temporary hazard for which TW339 may be used.
Additional traffic-management measures may be needed depending on the severity of the incident.
TW339 and Potholes
Potholes are another example identified by the SARTSM for the use of a general warning arrangement.
A supplementary plate displaying “Potholes” can explain the reason for the warning.
For short-term conditions, this arrangement may provide a practical temporary warning while repair work or further assessment is carried out.
TW339 and Roadworks
TW339 may also be used at roadworks sites or detours when a general warning is considered more appropriate than the standard TW336 Roadworks warning sign.
This allows the traffic-management arrangement to reflect an unusual hazard that is not adequately described by the normal roadworks warning.
TW339 vs TW336 Roadworks
- TW336: Specifically warns of roadworks.
- TW339: General warning for a random or unusual hazard.
Where the roadworks themselves are the hazard, TW336 may be appropriate. Where an unusual temporary hazard exists at a roadworks site and a general warning is more suitable, TW339 may be considered.
W339 and Night-Time Warning
The SARTSM allows TW339 to be used together with a yellow flashing light at night as provided for in the relevant requirements.
This can provide additional attention to a temporary hazard where night-time conditions make the roadway situation more difficult to identify.
The exact installation should follow the applicable temporary traffic-control requirements.
W339 Sign Placement
W339 and TW339 should be positioned in advance of the hazard.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be located according to the applicable Table 3.1 requirements.
The final placement should also take account of operating speed, visibility, road alignment, traffic conditions and the nature of the hazard.
W339 and Visibility
Because the purpose of W339 is to give drivers advance warning of an unusual hazard, the sign needs to be clearly visible before the affected section is reached.
Potential visibility problems include:
- Road curves
- Hills and crests
- Vegetation
- Buildings
- Other road signs
- Advertising structures
- Emergency equipment
- Poor sign positioning
Temporary signs should also be checked regularly because their position can change through wind, traffic activity, maintenance work or changes at the incident site.
Permanent W339 Use
The SARTSM states that the use of the permanent W339 General Warning sign should be strictly limited.
When W339 is used permanently, it should be accompanied by an appropriate IN11 supplementary plate explaining the hazard.
This helps prevent the general warning sign from becoming too vague for drivers who need to understand what they are approaching.
Why Permanent W339 Is Limited
Permanent road hazards should generally be communicated with the most appropriate specific warning sign available.
A general warning symbol does not identify the particular hazard on its own, which is why permanent use is restricted and requires additional explanatory information.
W339 and Specific Hazard Identification
The effectiveness of a general warning arrangement depends on drivers receiving enough information about the actual hazard.
For this reason, the supplementary message should be relevant, clear and appropriate to the condition that exists on the roadway.
W339 and Temporary Incident Management
TW339 can be particularly useful for maintenance teams, incident-response units and traffic-management personnel who need to warn approaching road users about an unexpected roadway condition.
The portable nature of the sign allows it to be deployed quickly when a hazard occurs and removed when the road returns to normal.
W339 and Road Maintenance Teams
Road maintenance and incident-response teams may encounter unexpected conditions that require immediate temporary warning.
Examples include potholes, debris, damaged pavement, fallen trees, flooding or other temporary obstructions.
Where a general warning is appropriate, TW339 with a suitable supplementary message can form part of the temporary traffic-management response.
W339 and Emergency Response
Emergency incidents can change the normal traffic pattern quickly.
Where an incident creates a random hazard ahead, TW339 can be used to warn approaching road users while emergency or maintenance teams manage the situation.
Other temporary traffic-control devices may also be required depending on the circumstances.
W339 and Road Debris
Unexpected debris on the roadway can create a temporary hazard for approaching vehicles.
Where the condition is general or random and requires advance warning, TW339 can be considered with an appropriate supplementary message.
W339 and Flooding
Temporary flooding can create a changing road hazard, particularly where water covers part of the road surface or affects visibility of the roadway.
Where the hazard is suitable for a general warning arrangement, TW339 may be used together with appropriate information describing the condition.
W339 and Weather-Related Incidents
Severe weather can produce unexpected roadway hazards such as fallen trees, flooding, debris or damaged pavement.
TW339 can provide a temporary general warning while the condition is being assessed or cleared.
W339 and Permanent Road Conditions
Where a hazardous condition becomes permanent, the warning arrangement should be reviewed.
A specific warning sign may be more appropriate if the hazard can be identified clearly and is covered by the South African road traffic sign system.
Permanent W339 use should remain limited and should include appropriate supplementary information.
W339 Sign Design and Colours
The standard permanent W339 warning sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: White retroreflective
The symbol is a black exclamation mark inside the triangular warning sign.
Temporary TW339 Sign Design and Colours
The temporary TW339 warning sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Black semi-matt
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
The yellow background identifies the sign as a temporary warning sign.
W339 Retroreflective Materials
The official sign specification provides for retroreflective materials on the warning-sign elements.
Retroreflective materials help the sign remain visible when illuminated by vehicle headlights, particularly during night-time and low-light conditions.
Public-road signs should be manufactured according to the applicable South African road traffic sign specifications.
TW339 Portable Sign Requirements
Because TW339 is commonly used as a portable sign, the SARTSM provides an additional requirement for the reverse side of a portable TW339.
The reverse side should have alternating black and yellow non-retroreflective horizontal stripes, 150 mm wide.
This requirement applies to portable temporary signs and forms part of the specified appearance of the temporary installation.
W339 Sign Size
The appropriate size of W339 depends on the road environment and the applicable South African traffic-sign requirements.
Factors that may influence sign selection include:
- Operating speed
- Road classification
- Required viewing distance
- Traffic conditions
- Roadside environment
- Available installation space
For public-road applications, the final size should be selected according to the applicable SARTSM requirements and the responsible road authority.
W339 and Driver Response
Drivers who see W339 should be prepared for the hazard described by the supplementary information plate or for an unusual roadway condition ahead.
Drivers should:
- Reduce speed when appropriate for the conditions.
- Read and follow supplementary information.
- Watch carefully for the actual hazard.
- Maintain proper control of the vehicle.
- Allow additional following distance where appropriate.
- Avoid sudden steering or braking unless necessary.
- Follow any additional temporary traffic controls.
The correct response depends on the actual hazard and surrounding traffic conditions.
Does W339 Set a Speed Limit?
No. W339 is a warning sign and does not itself establish a legal speed limit.
It warns drivers that a general hazard exists ahead and that additional care may be required.
Where a separate regulatory speed restriction applies, the appropriate regulatory speed-limit sign is responsible for communicating that restriction.
W339 on Public Roads in South Africa
On public roads, W339 and TW339 should be used according to the applicable South African road traffic sign requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
Temporary traffic-management arrangements should reflect the actual incident or hazard and should be changed when conditions change.
W339 on Private Roads and Properties
Similar general warning signage can also be useful on private roads and controlled properties where an unusual or temporary roadway hazard requires communication to drivers and other authorised road users.
Potential applications include:
- Industrial properties
- Warehouses
- Construction sites
- Private estates
- Mining properties
- Farms
- Game reserves
- Hotels and lodges
- Commercial properties
- Private access roads
On private property, the sign can form part of an internal traffic-management system based on the actual conditions at the site.
W339 for Construction Sites
Construction environments can contain changing hazards that are not always adequately described by a single specific warning sign.
Where an unusual temporary hazard occurs, TW339 may be considered as part of the site traffic-management arrangement.
Where the construction work itself is the primary hazard, the appropriate roadworks signs should also be considered.
W339 for Mining and Industrial Sites
Mining and industrial environments may experience temporary roadway hazards such as debris, damaged surfaces, vehicle incidents, flooding or unexpected obstructions.
TW339 can be useful where a general warning is more appropriate than a specific hazard symbol.
W339 for Shopping Centres and Commercial Properties
Commercial properties can experience temporary traffic hazards caused by maintenance, deliveries, accidents, construction work, flooding or other unexpected conditions.
Where appropriate, a general warning sign with a clear supplementary message can help communicate the temporary condition to drivers.
W339 for Parking Areas and Access Roads
Private parking areas and access roads may occasionally require temporary warnings for unusual hazards such as damaged pavement, fallen objects, accidents or maintenance activities.
The appropriate sign should be selected according to the actual hazard and the property's traffic-management requirements.
Who May Need W339 General Warning Signs?
W339 and TW339 signage may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Road maintenance contractors
- Traffic-management contractors
- Emergency-response teams
- Road construction contractors
- Mining operations
- Industrial facilities
- Property managers
- Construction-site managers
- Private estate managers
- Commercial property owners
Benefits of W339 General Warning Signs
- Provides a flexible warning for general or random roadway hazards.
- Can be deployed quickly for unexpected temporary incidents.
- TW339 can be portable and moved as the hazard changes.
- Can be combined with supplementary information describing the specific hazard.
- Can be used for incidents such as fallen trees, accidents, subsidence and burst water mains.
- Can provide temporary warning for potholes and other short-term hazards.
- Can be used at suitable roadworks or detours where a general warning is more appropriate.
- Can be used with a yellow flashing light at night where the applicable requirements permit.
Frequently Asked Questions About W339 Road Signs
What does W339 mean?
W339 means General Warning. It warns road users of a general or random hazard on the roadway ahead.
What is the official name of W339?
The official South African designation is GENERAL WARNING.
What does the W339 symbol mean?
The black exclamation mark indicates that a general or non-specific hazard exists ahead.
Is W339 used for every road hazard?
No. Specific warning signs should generally be considered when they accurately describe the particular hazard.
What is TW339?
TW339 is the temporary General Warning sign, commonly used for short-term and unexpected roadway hazards.
When is TW339 used?
It may be used for temporary hazards such as fallen trees, subsidence, burst water mains, accidents and potholes.
Can W339 be used for potholes?
Yes. A general warning arrangement can use W339 or TW339 with a supplementary plate stating “Potholes”, particularly for temporary conditions.
Is W331 different from W339?
Yes. W331 specifically warns about an uneven or potholed roadway, while W339 provides a general warning for a random or non-specific hazard.
Can W339 be used for an accident?
Yes. The SARTSM identifies an accident as an example of a temporary hazard for which TW339 may be used.
Can W339 be used for fallen trees?
Yes. Fallen trees are specifically identified as an example of a temporary random hazard suitable for TW339.
Can W339 be used for burst water mains?
Yes. Burst water mains are specifically identified by the SARTSM as an example of a random temporary roadway hazard.
Does W339 need a supplementary plate?
Yes. The SARTSM states that permanent W339 use must include an appropriate supplementary information plate. TW339 should also use a relevant message wherever possible.
What messages can appear below W339?
Examples include “Ice”, “Snow”, “Potholes” and “Accident”, depending on the actual hazard.
Can W339 be permanent?
Yes, but permanent use should be strictly limited and accompanied by an appropriate supplementary information plate.
Why is TW339 more common than W339?
TW339 is particularly suited to unexpected short-term hazards where a portable warning can be quickly erected and removed.
Is TW339 portable?
Yes. The SARTSM states that TW339 will commonly be portable so it can be quickly erected, moved or removed.
Can TW339 be used at roadworks?
Yes. TW339 may be used at roadworks or detours where a general warning is considered more appropriate than TW336 Roadworks.
What is the difference between W339 and W336?
W339 gives a general warning about an unusual or random hazard, while W336 specifically warns about roadworks.
Can W339 be used at night?
TW339 may be used with a yellow flashing light at night where the applicable requirements provide for this arrangement.
What colours does permanent W339 use?
Permanent W339 uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does TW339 use?
TW339 uses a red retroreflective triangle, black semi-matt symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
What markings are required on the back of a portable TW339?
The reverse side has alternating black and yellow non-retroreflective horizontal stripes that are 150 mm wide.
Where should W339 be placed?
It should be positioned in advance of the hazard at a distance determined according to the applicable SARTSM requirements, including Table 3.1.
Does W339 impose a speed limit?
No. W339 is a warning sign and does not itself establish a legal speed limit.
Can W339 be used on private property?
Similar general warning signage can be used on private roads and controlled properties as part of an appropriate internal traffic-management system.
Can W339 be used on construction sites?
Yes. TW339 can be used for suitable temporary hazards at construction and roadworks sites.
Can W339 be used with other signs?
Yes. A supplementary information plate is an important part of the W339 arrangement, and other warning or regulatory signs may be required depending on the site.
Is W339 a regulatory sign?
No. W339 is part of the W-series warning signs.
What is the difference between W339 and a specific warning sign?
W339 gives a general warning, while specific warning signs identify hazards such as speed humps, slippery roads, uneven roads or falling rocks.
Can Signs4SA supply W339 signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W339 General Warning signs, temporary TW339 signs and supplementary information plates for different traffic-management applications.
Order W339 General Warning Signs
Need W339 General Warning or TW339 Temporary General Warning signs for a road incident, potholes, fallen trees, construction area, industrial site, private property or temporary traffic-management application?
Signs4SA can assist with general warning signs and supplementary information plates that communicate the specific hazard to approaching road users.
Contact Signs4SA with the W339 or TW339 code, required message, quantity, sign size, material and installation requirements to request a quotation.
One popular type of road sign is the Warning 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.
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