There are many different traffic barriers located around the country that help protect pedestrians, drivers and cyclists. Knowing the difference between them is always a bonus for passers-by, just to provide you with that extra reassurance of safety! Although the flashing lights and bright colours on the crossings make it pretty obvious when you’re supposed to stop and go, it’s important to be aware of what type of crossing it is. When it comes to crossing railways 100% safety is an absolute must. There are a number of barriers to keep your eye out for. Gated crossings operated by railway staff involve protection of the railway at either side by fencing. It has a red and white strip at the top of both gates and they are lifted when it is ok for pedestrians and cars to pass through. The barrier crossings operated by railway staff are similar to gate crossings, but they are protected by traffic lights signals and lifting barriers on both sides of the railway. There is also barrier crossings that are capable of operating themselves such as obstacle detection and automatic half barrier crossings, which means there is no need for railway staff to control them all day. Automatic barrier crossings that are locally monitored appear to be the same as the automatic half barriers, but they are protected by road traffic light signals and a single lifting barrier on both sides of the railway. Watch out for open crossings, as they are only there to warn pedestrians that they are at a crossing. They are marked with road signs and there are no barriers or lights. Specifically for pedestrians you’ll find footpath crossings. These are usually found in areas where pedestrians have a lot of access. With a footpath crossing, the railway quite simply crosses the footpath, so it’s important for pedestrians to keep their eye out!

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