The Speed Problem on Worksites
One of the biggest risks at temporary worksites is speed. Even with signs, cones, and barriers in place, too many motorists fail to slow down. A moment’s inattention at 60 km/h versus 40 km/h can be the difference between a near miss and a tragedy.
The Austroads Guide to Temporary Traffic Management highlights the importance of driver behaviour management as a key layer of defence. That is exactly what ARROWES Electronic Speed Awareness Signs (eSAS) deliver.
What is eSAS?
ARROWES eSAS is a portable, self-powered sign that detects a vehicle’s approach speed and instantly displays it back to the driver. The technology is proven to influence behaviour because when drivers see their actual speed in real time, they instinctively slow down.
- Real-time feedback: immediate speed display encourages compliance.
- Visibility in all conditions: high-brightness LEDs cut through rain, fog, or low light.
- Portable and versatile: quick deployment for short-term, mobile, or high-risk work areas.
Why eSAS Works
Studies show speed awareness technology reduces speeding incidents significantly compared to static signage. By combining visual cues with accountability, eSAS acts as a behavioural check on motorists who might otherwise ignore posted limits.
On top of that, eSAS captures and collates speed data, giving contractors and authorities valuable insights into driver behaviour. This information can be used to make smarter, risk-based decisions about site design, speed zone selection, and enforcement strategies. Instead of relying on assumptions, traffic management plans can be backed by real-world data.
Case Study Example: Safer Speeds, Measurable Results
During a recent deployment on a regional road upgrade, contractors introduced eSAS units at key entry points to the worksite. Within the first week, speeding incidents above 60 km/h dropped by 35%, and compliance with the posted 40 km/h limit increased noticeably. The data captured by eSAS provided clear evidence of behavioural change and allowed the traffic management team to fine-tune site layouts based on actual risk rather than estimates.
Integration with Modern Worksites
eSAS fits seamlessly into AGTTM aligned traffic management setups, particularly in short-term low impact and mobile works where speed risk is high. It is a low-cost, high-impact tool that adds another layer of protection for both workers and road users.
Conclusion
ARROWES eSAS technology brings accountability to every worksite. It is not just about enforcing compliance, it is about changing behaviour in real time and preventing accidents before they happen. With built-in data collection, eSAS supports a risk-based approach that helps organisations continually improve safety outcomes.
Safer roads start with awareness. ARROWES eSAS makes drivers think twice and slow down.
Author: Nathan Psaila, Executive General Manager of ARROWES
Keywords: eSAS, Speed Awareness Signs, ARROWES, temporary traffic management, AGTTM compliance, road safety technology, driver behaviour management, risk-based decision making, traffic data collection, case study
