Understanding Industry Views on the Facilitators and Barriers of Using Portable Traffic Control Devices at Roadworks

This conference paper examines industry perspectives on the use of Portable Traffic Control Devices (PTCDs) at roadworks in Australia. The study uses focus group discussions with 12 industry representatives and an online survey of 42 traffic management professionals in New South Wales to investigate PTCD use, perceived reliability, and barriers to adoption. The findings indicate that experience, job role, and work environment influence perceptions of PTCD reliability, while technical problems, logistical challenges, high costs, limited training, and resistance to change hinder wider adoption. The paper recommends clearer guidelines, improved training, greater awareness, and financial incentives to encourage broader use of PTCDs and reduce reliance on human traffic controllers.