Blog Article

The 7 Core Principles of Temporary Traffic Management (TTM) in Qatar

Published: December 03, 2025

Temporary Traffic Management (TTM) plays a critical role in ensuring safety and efficiency during road works across Qatar. Whether the project is small maintenance work or a major highway diversion, every contractor must follow the standards defined in the Work Zone Traffic Management Guide (WZTMG) issued by Ashghal and the Ministry of Interior (MoI).

In this article, we explain the seven core principles of TTM that every contractor, consultant, and Site Traffic Management Supervisor (STMS) must follow in 2025.

The 7 Core Principles of TTM

1. Responsibility to All Road Users

Every work zone must be designed to protect all categories of road users, including:

Drivers
Pedestrians
Cyclists
Public transport users

Contractors must ensure safe passage through or around the work zone without confusion or sudden changes.

2. Elimination of Conflicts

Work zones should remove or reduce conflict points between live traffic, workers, heavy machinery, and pedestrians. Physical separation using cones, barriers, screens and channeling devices is mandatory to avoid risk.

3. Appropriate Speed Limits

Speed limits inside work zones must reflect the road classification, traffic volume, type and duration of work, and worker proximity to live traffic. Clear signs must be installed well in advance to ensure safe deceleration before the work area.

4. Protection of the Workforce

Worker safety is a top priority. Measures include:

Safety buffers
Temporary safety barriers
High-visibility clothing
Truck/Trailer Mounted Attenuators (TMAs)
Restricted access into unsafe areas

Workers must not stand or walk inside live traffic lanes under any circumstance.

5. Early Warning of Hazards

Road users must receive clear, early and continuous warning using:

Advance warning signs
Electronic Arrow Boards (EABs)
Variable Message Signs (VMS)
Highly reflective equipment

This ensures drivers understand what to expect and how to react safely.

6. Clear Direction to All Road Users

Work zones must provide unambiguous guidance using proper signage positioning, consistent sign sizes, correct taper lengths, direction arrows, and lane narrowing indications. Consistency helps drivers predict and respond confidently.

7. Proper Deployment of Traffic Control Devices (TCDs)

All signs, barriers, cones, and devices must:

Follow Qatar Traffic Control Manual (QTCM)
Be installed as shown in approved Traffic Management Drawings (TMDs)
Remain visible day and night
Be regularly inspected and maintained

Incorrect or poorly installed TCDs are among the most common causes of non-compliance notices.

Why These Principles Matter

Following these seven principles ensures: Maximum safety for workers, minimised disruption to road users, smooth and professional project execution, and full compliance with Ashghal and MoI standards. In Qatar’s fast-growing road infrastructure environment, strong TTM practices are essential for every contractor aiming to deliver safe, high-quality projects.

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