An Introduction to The Fatal 6

Posted on 4th November 2024 at 10:13 am.

The Fatal 6’ is a list compiled by the Mineral Products Association (MPA) Health & Safety Committee, back in 2017. Identifying six high consequence hazards, these being the main cause of fatalities with 94% off all accidents in the industry falling in to these 6 common themes. As the committee works towards their aim of ‘Zero Harm’ then first they must deliver ‘Zero Fatalities’. By utilising already developed tools and solutions with an uncompromising approach, the MPA Committee concluded that they could potentially reduce up to 75% of the most serious health & safety incidents.

Contact with Moving Machinery & Isolation (including stored energy)
Workplace Transport & Pedestrian Interface
Working at Height
Workplace Respirable Crystalline Silica
Struck By Moving or Falling Object
Road Traffic Accidents

Here at MVIS we specialise in solar powered trailer-based safety solutions. With run times of up to 6 months and battery changes as standard, we have a suite of products to ensure that you are not only adhering to the Fatal 6 and utilising the framework of: Plan / Do / Check / Act, but effectively reducing the possibility of serious health & safety incidents in your quarry or site.

Vehicle Activated Speed Signs and MVIS

Posted on 23rd August 2024 at 1:27 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

In the world of quarry operations, safety is paramount. With heavy machinery, large vehicles, and personnel working in often challenging environments, maintaining safety standards is crucial. One of the key advancements in promoting safety within quarries is the implementation of Vehicle Activated Speed Signs (VASS) and Mobile Visual Information Systems (MVIS).

Vehicle Activated Speed Signs (VASS)

What is Vehicle Activated Speed Signs?

Vehicle Activated Speed Signs, often referred to as VASS, are electronic signs placed strategically within quarry sites or can be trailer mounted to ensure slowed traffic site wide, meaning you can monitor and display the speed of approaching vehicles. These signs are equipped with sensors that detect the speed of an approaching vehicle and display it to the driver in real-time. If the vehicle exceeds the safe speed limit, the sign may flash or display a warning, alerting the driver to slow down. These solutions can also be fitted with Solar Panels, meaning that when strategically placed they can have run times months longer than a pole mounted solution.

The MVIS VASS sign also has the added benefit of ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), allowing the site to capture the number plate of any offending vehicle. The online platform allows the safety team to run a report that captures the information, showing the speed and number plate, allowing the team to contact the haulier to discuss the speeding incident with clearly defined data.

Benefits of VASS in Quarries:

Enhanced Safety Awareness: By providing real-time feedback to drivers, VASS helps raise awareness about speed limits and encourage adherence to safety guidelines.

Reduced Accidents: Speeding is a common cause of accidents in quarries. VASS can help mitigate this risk by prompting drivers to maintain safe speeds.

Compliance Monitoring: Quarry managers can use data collected from VASS to monitor compliance with speed limits and identify areas or times where speeding incidents are more prevalent.

The Impact on Quarry Safety

The implementation of Vehicle Activated Speed Signs represents a significant step forward in enhancing safety within the quarry sector. By leveraging advanced technology to monitor vehicle speeds and conduct thorough inspections of data, quarries can effectively reduce the risk of accidents, improve compliance with safety regulations, and create a safer working environment for all personnel.

Conclusion

As technology continues to evolve, so does its application in industrial sectors such as quarry operations. Vehicle Activated Speed Signs Systems exemplify how innovative solutions can address longstanding safety challenges. By investing in these technologies, quarry operators not only prioritize the well-being of their workforce but also contribute to more efficient and sustainable operations overall.

If you are interested in owning an MVIS VASS sign, contact our experts on:

📞 – 01629 580570

📧 – Sales@m-vis.co.uk

MVIS: Championing Wellbeing in the Highways Sector

Posted on 9th August 2024 at 3:00 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

MVIS: Championing Wellbeing in the Highways Sector

At MVIS, we are committed to more than just creating innovative solutions for traffic management; we are dedicated to the wellbeing of our team. Recently, we proudly participated in our latest “Journey to Wellbeing,” activity.

The initiative is aimed at improving mental health within the Highways sector. It has provided a great opportunity to foster a supportive work environment, encourage physical activity, and promote mental wellness amongst our colleagues.

The Journey to Wellbeing Initiative

The Highways sector, a 24/7 industry, can be demanding. Often requiring long hours, high levels of concentration, flexibility and the ability to manage stressful situations. Recognising these challenges, the Journey to Wellbeing initiative was established to support those working in the sector. It aims to raise awareness about mental health, provide resources and support, and create a culture that prioritizes the wellbeing of all employees.

At MVIS, we understand that mental health is as crucial as physical health. That’s why we have 3 Mental Health first aiders and embrace this initiative wholeheartedly, encouraging our team to participate in various activities designed to promote a positive mindset and a healthy lifestyle.

The Olympics Quiz: A Nod to Our 2012 Legacy

In keeping with the spirit of the Journey to Wellbeing, we organized an Olympics-themed quiz. This was particularly meaningful for us, as MVIS played a crucial role in traffic management during the London 2012 Olympics. MVIS deployed a 177 VMS on the Olympic Route Network, this ensured smooth transportation for athletes, officials, and fans during the event, and it was a proud moment in our company’s history.

The quiz was a delightful mix of questions about Olympic history, MVIS’s involvement in the 2012 Games, and general sports trivia. The competition was fierce, but it was Sales Director, Graeme Lee who emerged victorious, clinching the gold medal by answering an impressive 12 out of 15 questions correctly. This was a fun and engaging way to reminisce about our achievements and connect over shared memories.

Running in Front of Our Vehicle Activated Speed Sign

In the spirit of physical fitness and friendly competition, we also held a unique event where participants ran in front of our new Vehicle Activated Speed Sign (VASS) to see who could run the fastest. Our VASS technology, which typically alerts drivers to their speed, was repurposed for the day to measure the speed of our runners.

With excitement in the air, our team members took turns sprinting in front of the sign. It was a great way to get everyone moving and have some fun. Marketing Executive Ben Ashman claimed the title of the fastest runner, clocking an impressive 20 mph. The event was not only a test of speed but also a great way to encourage physical activity and camaraderie among our team.

A Commitment to Wellbeing

At MVIS, we believe that a healthy mind and body are key to a happy and productive life. Our participation in the Journey to Wellbeing initiative is just one example of our commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture. We are proud to support our team members in their journey towards better mental health and overall wellbeing.

As we continue to innovate and provide cutting-edge solutions for traffic management, we remain dedicated to promoting a work environment that values and supports the wellbeing of every individual. Together, we are building a brighter, healthier future for the Highways sector and beyond.

Alleviating Anxiety on our Roads

Posted on 3rd July 2024 at 10:00 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

In today’s fast-paced world, the daily commute or road journey can be a significant source of stress, tension, and anxiety for many individuals.

The uncertainty of traffic conditions, roadworks, and unexpected delays can trigger worry and frustration, affecting our mental well-being. However, there is a solution that not only provides essential information but also helps alleviate anxiety and reduce stress levels: variable message signs (VMS).

Our portable signs displaying real-time information on road conditions and journey times have a surprising impact on the mental strain experienced by road users. In this blog, we will explore how VMS can benefit mental health by reducing stress, tension, frustration, and worry, and how they contribute to a more positive and anxiety-free driving experience.

The Detrimental Effects of Stress and Worry

Stress and worry take a toll on our mental and physical health. The constant anticipation of traffic congestion, unexpected roadworks, or delays can create a sense of helplessness and exacerbate anxiety. Studies have shown that chronic stress contributes to a range of health issues, including high blood pressure, insomnia, reduced cognitive function, and even depression. Therefore, finding effective ways to minimise stress and worry during road journeys is crucial for promoting mental well-being.

Stress-Relief: Real Time Information

Variable message signs play a vital role in reducing anxiety by providing road users with up-to-date, real-time information. These signs display essential details regarding road conditions, alternate routes, and expected journey times, allowing drivers to make informed decisions and plan their journeys more effectively. By knowing what lies ahead, road users can mentally prepare for potential delays, reducing the element of surprise and the resulting stress.

Alleviating Anxiety

The fear of the unknown is a common source of anxiety, and this applies to road users as well. The ‘what ifs’ that accompany a journey can cause significant stress and worry. However, VMS products provide a solution to this problem. By displaying vital information these signs address the uncertainty that often plagues drivers. They act as a reassuring guide, eliminating the need to imagine worst-case scenarios and allowing road users to focus on the present moment.

Reducing Frustration

Delays and unexpected road incidents can quickly lead to frustration and tension. Traffic congestion, detours, or unclear directions can trigger emotions that are detrimental to mental health. Variable message signs mitigate these negative emotions by keeping drivers informed and aware of the situation at hand. By providing accurate and timely updates, VMS help drivers anticipate and understand the causes of delays.

One major additional benefit is the one our roadworkers can experience. A calmer driver is less likely to subject roadworkers to a torrent of abuse – something roadworkers sadly face on an increasing basis.

MVIS Sales Director Graeme Lee said:

“There are some really important elements to portable VMS that we believe are overlooked. In a world where stresses are high enough, we don’t want a road network filled with anxious, angry drivers -it isn’t good for anyone. Journey time information is so important to drivers and enables them to adapt as they travel. With the common integration of Bluetooth into cars now for telephone use, an informed driver can keep in touch if required to advise of any changes to their journey and subsequently, their plans.”

CCTV: Securing Working Sites and Preventing Trespassing

Posted on 3rd May 2024 at 1:56 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

What is the problem?

Trespassing is common on any construction or quarry site. Large sites that are unmonitored are often targets for threats as there will be no evidence of them on that site, other than word of mouth.

When being subject to trespassing, companies need preparation for these threats:

Damage of Company Assets – when a worksite shuts over an evening all company assets are being left unattended. Meaning they are susceptible to threats trespassing and potentially damaging assets.
Health and Safety of bystanders – if someone is to enter a site it is the companies responsibility to ensure they are safe. Whether it be a pedestrian, trespasser or a staff member. Injured members of the public can end in legal issue and furthermore be damaging to your company…
Damage to reputation – damage of a company asset effects the day to day of a company. Damage of reputation is a long lasting effect that could takes months to years to recuperate. If a bystander is injured on site, your company becomes associated with this.

What is the solution?.. CCTV

CCTV can be as simple as implementing a watchful eye over a site, while also deterring public from trespassing. The presence of a CCTV unit on site will deter most people at the thought of there being evidence against them if they pose a threat.

If the public aren’t deterred, CCTV will give you evidence to there whereabouts and what has happened. This can help in cases of proving someone has entered your site without permission. Also helping with protecting your site if a member of the public is injured while walking onto site.

Why Choose an MVIS CCTV?

MVIS are dedicated to supplying the highest quality cameras possible and ensuring that customers are receiving the platinum level service.

Our innovation the MVIS Portable Solar Powered Site & Compound CCTV is perfect for alerting construction workers to trespassers onto their site, meaning they can then implement a safety measure against threats. Alerts are sent to the assigned person, such as security guards or site managers.

MVIS Portable Solar Powered Site & Compound CCTV in action:

Read about Compound CCTV here >

What Can An MVIS VMS Do For You?

Posted on 26th April 2024 at 9:00 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

The MVIS VMS is a versatile piece of equipment, made in the UK to meet UK needs.

Our VMS are commonly seen on the side of the motorway, but the potential of our VMS is endless. With a wide range of uses our VMS has many different areas of expertise and applies to many different sectors of business.

Here are just a few examples of what VMS from MVIS are suitable for: –

Highways

MVIS’ leading product is most known for being seen at the side of motorways helping the UK to achieve safer highways. MVIS provides a scalable, responsive, and cost-effective solution to the problems within the sector of traffic management.

These are but some of the perks of hiring a sign from a company such as MVIS, the VMS keeps traffic moving and the roads safe, but also with the MVIS environmental sensor you can measure the impact your scheme is having on the local area, these can be attached to any of our ITS products.

Our VMS are also equipped to tell you the length of potential travel times accordance to the work on the highways, a simple yet effective use that will affect a road users’ journey. They will be able to adhere their journey in accordance to the lead times given to drivers to ensure they get to their destination as efficiently as possible while also keeping them informed while on the UK’s roads.

VMS-A’s are tailor made for Roads that have a speed limit of under 50, where as a VMS-C is made for those High Speed Jobs that require you to see the sign before you have passed them on A-Roads or Motorways, roads over 70MPH.

Airports

MVIS’ VMS signs are created to inform, this can be informing of upcoming traffic problems in any sector. For example, at an airport, it’s easy to imagine that airport car parks get busy, especially around the school holidays. The solution…use one of MVIS signs, they are the perfect solution to the problem of overcrowded parking lots. It is easy to program a sign to redirect traffic to a different lot or even to express the potential wait times.

The importance of getting a message across is one of MVIS highest priorities, if an airport is in need of getting important information across to customers, such as the changing of a gate or the cancellation of a flight, why not do it at the beginning of their holiday at the entrance to the airport?

Construction

Site safety is important! As an employer, the number one priority is to keep the team safe and to look after a competent workforce, MVIS are one of the leading SME companies in prioritising the safety of their employees and the safety of their customers sites.

A VMS from MVIS is perfect for a construction site whether it be on the side of the busiest motorways or in the city centre. VMS’ can keep the area around the constructions site clear and decongested meaning constructions workers are able to perform their tasks in a distraction free but most importantly safe environment for them to be able to produce the best work possible.

All our VMS can be fitted with a radar to ensure that motorists driving around the sites are watching their speed. If a vehicle exceeds a certain speed the VMS can display a speed roundel advising of the site speed and a message saying “SLOW DOWN” on the screen ensuring drivers adhere to the sites speed limits.

Quarries

Quarry sites contribute materials for construction to a wide variety of companies across the nation.

Over time when quarries have served their use, they are transformed into Landfill sites, helping local councils eradicate their litter problems and preventing sites from overthrowing and hurting the environment.

Where does MVIS play apart in this? We are the leading company in Traffic Management on sites across the UK. Trucks will come into a site and will get stuck in Traffic waiting for one way routes to be cleared, an MVIS Intelligent LED Sign is used to direct traffic with messages such as ‘Next Truck’ or ‘Wait at the Bottom’.

We have been able to implement this across many Quarry sites and it has proven to work keeping quarry managers happy and HGV drivers safe.

Events

Stand out from the crowd with responsive, high impact event communications.

If an event is being a planned whether it be a Festival, Sporting day, Pride, Fun Run for charity, a farmers’ market at the peak of popularity or a corporate event that the big sale relies on. There is no better way to make sure that the event goes without informing customers, hiring a sign from MVIS promotes your event.

VMS signs have many ways of being a help to any event, they can display timings of the events and when they start, allocate parking spaces for customers or even to advertise an event to make it as successful as a customer wants it to be.

With a proven track record of effective deployment and success, MVIS products have been tried and tested on some of the biggest events this country has ever seen, such as the 2012 Olympics, Brighton Pride, V Festival, Silverstone and The Grand National.

Ports

A journey to the port ready to set sail on a fantastic holiday is a nice way to spend hard earned time off work, but a port can also be an unsafe area. Most port workers struggle to allocate traffic management and to enforce speed zones in the area to make sure that port workers are in the safest environment they can be.

Not only can MVIS ensure worker safety, but passengers setting sail on the high seas can get all the information they need such as where they need to park, where their boat is docked and how they need to get there.

Our VMS have many uses in all sectors and are adaptable to all situations. As a result of its flexibility, It is easy to understand why a customer would want to hire a VMS from MVIS and why customers keep coming back to us for both hire & sale.

As well as award winning customer service, an MVIS VMS has all the extras and much more. As a company, MVIS has a lot to offer in accordance with safety and keeping workforces in top condition so they can continue to keep the UK running.

Hire VMS from The Best at MVIS!

The 5 reasons High-Speed expertise provides a safer, more efficient road network

Posted on 2nd March 2020 at 10:55 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

MVIS prides itself on keeping Britain moving.

From major motorways and A-roads to inner-city and urban environments, MVIS has developed a reputation for both quality products and outstanding service.

Often working in collaboration with Highways England, MVIS has become a trusted asset when it comes to the delivery of safe, efficient VMS and ITS products and solutions onto the UK’s roads.

As the company has continued to deliver and further its stellar reputation, MVIS has become more involved in the preparation phase of major schemes.

The company provides expert consultation for key upgrades in relation to the VMS and ITS elements of works, including where units will be positioned, how many are needed and how to make the most of the allocated units to provide maximum efficiency in relation to traffic flow, whilst also delivering the optimum level of safety for the road user.

Focusing on the high-speed road network, here are 5 reasons why MVIS is the choice for any high-speed scheme of work:

Expertise & Longevity

MVIS has extensive high-speed knowledge dating back to 2012 and its first schemes on the M4 and M5.

MVIS has provided VMS units to a number of high-profile, high-speed schemes ever since. These schemes include:

M1 J16-J19, J23a-J25, J28-J35a, J39-J42
MSM M60
M27 J4-J11
M62 J10-J12
M20 SMP
M23
Oldbury Viaduct
A14 IDT

2. ISO accreditations

When deciding on who to deliver a key scheme, quality needs to shine through.

Buying into ‘Aim for Zero’ MVIS has had zero incidents of near-misses or injury in its 8-year history, and that exemplary record can be attributed to an attitude towards safety and quality that is ingrained within the company.

This ethos is rubber-stamped with a number of ISO accreditations that leave no doubt as to what you’re getting when you bring MVIS into a job and onto a scheme.

The company ISO accreditations include ISO45001: Occupational Health & Safety, ISO9001: Quality Management Systems, as well as ISO14001: Environmental Management Systems.

3. Training for on-site work

The MVIS approach to training is continuous and has a number of key elements:

MVIS staff fully trained as hiab and slinger signalers for delivery, installation and removal.
Fully health and safety trained staff. Internally, MVIS has a programme of Health and Safety training that is ongoing for every operative, in addition to externally completed health and safety training to ensure quality across the board.
CSCS: Depending on their role on site, MVIS workforce is all on site with the appropriate and relevant CSCS card. Even the management team are CSCS qualified so they can visit the site to carry out essential auditing.

4. Fleet size

The MVIS fleet size supporting their high-speed capabilities is vast, with 192 of their VMS-C units currently in the fleet.

Due to current demand, another 30 are to be added by the end of Jan 2020.

5. Solar IP unit

The Solar IP supports MVIS’ high-speed operation by providing an environmentally friendly ITS solution.

The versatility of the Solar IP makes it perfect for high-speed work, using Solar IP and any combination of VMS, ANPR, CCTV, radar or contactless sensor. If things change, Solar IP can be quickly and easily reconfigured to meet the immediate requirement.

Trust MVIS

With such expertise, accredited quality, as well as in-depth training, a vast fleet and a versatile product range – why wouldn’t MVIS get the call?

Vast hire fleet supports major schemes nationwide

Posted on 30th October 2019 at 1:31 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

In 2012 following the London Olympics, VMS hire specialist MVIS had a fleet of 180 units. Their role at London 2012 was a landmark, being involved in one of the most prestigious events the UK has ever held.

Now, 7 years on, the hire fleet is gargantuan, with over 550 hire units – showcasing a 7-year growth that sees an increase of over 200% in fleet size.

General Manager of MVIS, Anne Ashman comments:

“Year on year we are having to increase the hire fleet by 100 units minimum just to keep up with the demand for hire from MVIS.

“Our reputation goes before us and our focus on service and quality is seeing consistent, fruitful growth.”

Anne continues:

“Over the years, we’ve developed a reputation for quality, and our capabilities have led to being trusted with the planning and implementation of major schemes.

“The way we work with a client is very simple; you give us your plan, and we’ll make it work for you.

“We’ll consult, plan how many units are needed and where they ought to be deployed via a site visit and evaluation, then we deploy and deliver the required number of units on time for the scheme to commence.”

Recently, MVIS has opened a new depot in the north east to further increase efficiency in servicing the north of England as well as Scotland. This additional space means more units can be housed for the hire fleet, as well as placing an increased demand for units with the capability to service more contracts.

As a result, MVIS has recently added another 40 Solar IP units which Bartco UK built, plus almost 70 VMS of various sizes.

Additionally, MVIS are looking to add another 40 HD compact units to the fleet over the next few months, as well as 40 new Solar IP units and 30 new VMS-C units.

MVIS can build 150 units in 5 months for large schemes and have them on the Highway, as they did with corridor orange on the M1.

Currently, the MVIS fleet contains over 500 units, with a breakdown consisting of 181 VMS-A, 192 VMS-C, 81 x Solar IPS and 43 x HD Compact amongst other refurbished units.

With the aim of 110 new units in the next few months, the fleet could now see a 20% boost in size by the new year.

Anne commented on the upscaling:

“Simply put, we need a larger hire fleet due to demand, as well as our increased presence in the North East.

“With our build capability and emphasis on servicing our clients, we’re striving to make these fleet additions in the near future as we continue to keep Britain moving.”

First published on HighwaysIndustry.com

For more information on how our solutions can help you, please get in touch with the team at MVIS on 01629 580 570 or email sales@m-vis.co.uk

Hire Solar Intelligent Platform

Posted on 10th March 2017 at 4:38 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

Hire Solar Intelligent Platform (IP) portable solar CCTV from MVIS for a flexible and responsive approach to your traffic or event management project. Simple and cost-effective to deploy it requires no civils or external communications.

MVIS will deliver an integrated intelligent transport system (ITS) solution that meets your specific needs using Solar IP and any combination of VMS, ANPR, CCTV, radar or contactless sensor. If things change, a Solar Intelligent Platform can be quickly and easily reconfigured.

A Solar Intelligent Platform Offers a versatile trailer-based and solar powered ‘power bank’, meaning it is portable solar CCTV. This unit can be integrated with other technologies, granting them portability.

Intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions providing event support

Posted on 18th December 2013 at 9:12 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a leading provider of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, which are an innovative and cost effective event management tool, MVIS will be attending the Event Buyers Live event in January 2014.

During the event, on 30th & 31st January 2014 in Marlow, MVIS will be showcasing our range of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions which can be used to ensure event traffic flows smoothly, events are adequately lighted and visitors have up to date information whilst also saving on manpower costs.

MVIS supplies VMS solutions which can relay traffic news and warnings to motorists – vital for ensuring a constant and healthy flow of traffic around an event site. They can be updated remotely and feature a five colour matrix which allows the user to display information in red, white, green and blue as well as the standard amber. In addition to the five colour functionality, the VMS are also able to display Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms in addition to text. This feature, in MVIS’ experience, facilitates a rapid response from drivers – even foreign motorists who may well be unable to understand text.

MVIS has previously supplied Transport for London with what is believed to be the largest single deployment of solar powered variable message signs (VMS) in the world for use during the London 2012 Olympics. Almost 200 units were installed and used to enable athletes and officials to travel safely and efficiently between the venues and their accommodation.

The VMS’ multi-coloured display and the facility to update the signs remotely also makes them an effective event advertising tool. They can be used to promote services which are available at an event or to give the latest ticketing information. Recently, MVIS supplied two VMS-C to Wembley Stadium where they were used to give ticket information to fans at two England football internationals.

Other intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions which can be used to ensure effective event management include the CCTV and ANPR cameras MVIS provide. Both of these camera units can be used to monitor traffic flow and knowing how traffic is building up on a site allows the user to direct traffic quickly and accurately onto routes which will prevent standing traffic.

Adequate lighting is a vital element of ensuring an event is safe and secure. MIVS supplies Solaris 6K LED lighting towers which replace the need for halogen or fluorescent sources and emit large expanses of white, shadow free light. They are capable of running for extended use times and provide great savings on CO2 emissions.

All of the intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provided by MVIS can fitted on a Solar 2012 Multi-Use Trailer Platform, which makes the products portable and available for use wherever they are required, at short notice.

To discuss intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions for event management purposes with MVIS, contact us on 01629 580 570.

Mobile VMS: An effective intelligent transport system (ITS) solution

Posted on 10th December 2013 at 4:31 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

We were delighted to see the coverage that Traffic Technology International (TTI) has given in their latest edition to MVIS‘ championing of mobile VMS as an effective temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solution.

In the article, which reports that there are now “battalions” of mobile VMS being used in the UK for a variety of applications, MVIS managing director Pat Musgrave discusses the benefits of mobile VMS. The units he tells TTI are, “ideal for use in short-term projects, especially those requiring fast installation (for instance due to highway accidents), and also those that require signs to be repositioned throughout their duration (such as evolving roadworks).”

MVIS provides the VMS-C, which is a mobile VMS unit that is versatile, easy to set up and suitable for use in all conditions. Our VMS-C features a five colour matrix which offers the user the chance to display information in red, green, blue and white as well as in the standard amber. Our VMS are all capable of displaying Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms, as well as text. This makes them an excellent temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solution as they facilitate a rapid response from all drivers – even foreign motorists who may not be able to understand text.

The TTI article also recounts the zero shunt rate recorded by A-One+ who used mobile VMS, from MVIS, whilst recently undertaking a refurbishment of the A1 western bypass between Newcastle and Gateshead. Ten VMS-C units were installed for the duration of the project and the display was remotely switched between speed roundels and three color pictograms in the event of standing traffic.

A-One+ attributes the recording of no standing traffic incidents directly to the mobile VMS provided by MVIS, with their manager of operations, Ian Lee telling TTI, “Not only did MVIS’ VMS facilitate a rapid message change in response to the quickly changing traffic situation, but the high visibility of the three colour pictograms engendered an instant motorist reaction, promoting the safety of road workers, police and motorists alike”.

As a leading provider of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS is always looking to bring new products to the market which can provide valuable assistance with traffic management. One such intelligent transport system (ITS) solution is the Portable Solar Powered Journey Time Solution (SPJTS) , which takes the Skyhawk Integrated ANPR camera, a VMS-A display and the Solar 2012 Multi Use Platform and combines them to make a highly impressive traffic management aid. Using its several features, highway managers are able to monitor traffic and then warn users of potentials delays or, if necessary, suggest an alternative route.

To discuss mobile VMS or any other products with intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provider MVIS, contact us on 01629 580 570.

VMS: intelligent transport system (ITS) solution for cycling crisis?

Posted on 29th November 2013 at 11:33 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

A proliferation of horrific media reports of cyclist deaths in UK cities is ensuring that the issue of cyclist safety is one of the highest profile issues currently facing the country’s transport bosses.

Keen to help highways managers promote the safety of cyclists and indeed all road users, intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provider Mobile Visual Information Systems (MVIS), is championing the potential of temporary variable message signs (VMS).

Temporary VMS can be rapidly deployed to highlight the location of accident hot-spots, warning cyclists and motorists of the need to navigate these areas with extra vigilance. Safety messages can be intermittently featured on temporary VMS, whatever their position and prime function, ensuring that road users everywhere are reminded to cycle and drive with caution. As the country’s network of cycling lanes expands, the temporary signs can also be used to help safely manage traffic around the subsequent roadworks.

MVIS believes that the VMS signs of greatest safety potential are five colour matrix signs, which feature red, green, blue and white in addition to standard amber, as the resulting displays are of particularly high impact and so facilitate rapid road user response.

The intelligent transport system (ITS) company is also an advocate of Chapter 8/MS4 style pictograms, as its experience suggests that conspicuous coloured images are interpreted with particular speed, including foreign road users who are not always able to understand text.

Said the operations director of MVIS, Steve Young, whose intelligent transport system (ITS) company rapidly deploys its five colour matrix signs via a nationwide network of 14 depots: “Cycling is an increasingly popular mode of transport so the issue of cyclist safety as well as that of motorists will not go away.

“As MPs and transport bosses across the country consider ways to fund and develop a safer road network, MVIS is promoting to the sector the immediate, flexible and cost-effective potential of the best temporary VMS.

“Not only can they be quickly deployed, but their high impact visuals are spotted by cyclists and motorists and responded to with speed.

“Yes it’s going to take a long time and a lot of money, not to mention a great deal of political will and high-level discussion, before the UK’s road network is as safe as those of some of its European counterparts, but temporary VMS can be used to great effect now to help improve safety in the short term.”

MVIS recently installed 10 VMS-Cs during A-One+’s northbound refurbishment of the A1 western bypass between Newcastle and Gateshead. Featuring a display that was remotely switched from speed roundels to three colour pictograms in the event of standing traffic, A-one+ credits the VMS with ensuring zero standing-traffic related incidents during their six week installation. When the company undertook an identical project on the southbound carriageway in 2009, using fixed frame signs, there were several such incidents.

MVIS’ product portfolio includes a wide range of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions in addition to VMS, including ANPR, CCTV and radar and clients include Transport for London, Balfour Beatty, the Metropolitan Police and numerous events organisations.