Working Group 3

Working Group 3 – Fixed and Portable VMS

Working Group Matt Felce

Vice Chair – vacancy

ARTSM members in WG3 design, manufacture and install a very wide range of permanent, mobile and temporary VMS & VAS used in the UK, every type from the simplest manually operated flap sign, mechanical prismatic signs through to LED electronic signs and signals.

WG3 formulates a consensus view of members regarding standards, regulations and legislation, actively participates in writing and reviewing these documents and provides representation BSI B/509/11 The BS EN 12966:2014 standard has been influenced by WG3 safeguarding UK interests. Two other important areas of work include: TOPAS (Traffic Open Products and Specifications) AND CEN/CENELEC European and BSI adopted Standards. As noted in the Statement of Purpose an important feature in the WG3 committee’s work is a continuous review of standards and documents which may affect changes in procedures, legislation, safety standards and European harmonization and, in turn, the interests of members.

Our Goals

Net Zero – continue to encourage registration to TOPAS for CE marked and non CE marked temporary equipment

Vision Zero – produce guidance on correct sign facing requirements and promote widely to encourage safer use of signage for both long and short term use and improve guidance on correct siting of VMS/VAS on trunk and local roads

Aims of Working Group 3

Provide a forum for members who have an interest in the development, design, testing, manufacture, supply and installation of permanent, mobile and temporary continuous and discontinuous VMS.
Provide and assist members to obtain relevant and current information in the form of standards and regulations to ensure their products are fit for purpose, specifically BS EN 12966: 2014 incorporating corrigenda, TSRGD 2016 (as amended) and TOPAS 2516 & 2541.
Ensure that due cognizance is accorded of interests and concerns of members in the preparation, review and implementation of national standards and regulations for VMS by nominating product experts to standard and similar committees, for example, BSi B/509/11 VMS committee and TOPAS.
Recommend the consolidation or withdrawal of standards and documentation that have been superseded or become redundant due to changes in legislation and advances in technology.
Prepare and publish guidance notes based on the expertise of members to influence purchasers in their selection, deployment, installation and use of VMS.

WG3 is represented on the TOPAS management board by the current WG3 chairperson and on BSI’s shadow committee B/509/11 covering EN 12966 for VMS. The WG aims to meet quarterly to transact business and all members are welcome to attend. Requests for agenda items are welcomed.

Next Meeting: 15/1/26; 3/3/26; 2/6/26; 2/9/26; 3/11/26

Chair March 2026/27 Matt Felce (appt July 26) Deputy Chair : vacancy