Understanding Line Marking Paints: A Guide to Regulations and Best Practices

Regulations & Compliance

Are there specific regulations for road marking paints?

Yes, road marking paints in the UK must comply with specific regulations and standards to ensure durability, visibility, and safety. Some key regulations and standards include:

1. BS EN 1436 – This European standard specifies the performance requirements for road marking materials, including retro reflectivity, skid resistance, and luminance.

2. BS EN 1871 – Defines the physical and chemical properties of road marking materials, including colour, durability, and composition.

3. The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD) 2016 – Provides legal requirements for road markings, ensuring consistency in design, colour, and placement.

4. Highways England Specification for Highway Works (SHW) Series 1200 – Sets out additional technical requirements for road markings used on motorways and trunk roads.

5. Environmental and Health Regulations – Road marking paints must comply with environmental standards, including limits on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous substances under the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation.

What colours are used for specific line markings in different industries?

Roads & Highways (UK - TSRGD 2016)

• White – Lane markings, centre lines, stop/give way lines, parking bays.

• Yellow – Parking restrictions (single/double yellow), bus lanes, box junctions.

• Red – Red routes (no stopping), cycle lanes.

• Blue – Disabled parking bays, motorway services.

• Green – Cycle lanes, bus priority areas.

Warehouses & Factories (HSE Guidance)

• Yellow – Hazard zones, walkways.

• Red – Fire equipment areas, prohibited zones.

• Blue – Mandatory actions, equipment storage.

• Green – First aid stations, safe areas.

• White – General guidance, storage areas.

Car Parks

• White – Standard parking bays, directional arrows.

• Yellow – No parking zones, loading areas.

• Blue – Disabled parking spaces.

• Red/Green – Electric vehicle charging points.

Sports Courts & Playgrounds

• White – General court markings (tennis, football).

• Yellow/Blue – Secondary game lines (basketball, netball).

• Red/Green – Multi-sport zones.

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