BS EN 12966:2014+A1:2018

What is BS EN 12966 - Variable message traffic signs about?  

BS EN 12966 discusses road vertical signs.  

BS EN 12966 provides specifications for two types of variable message signs (VMS); i.e., continuous, and discontinuous. 

BS EN 12966 specifies visual and physical characteristics of VMS as well as their durability aspects. It also provides relevant requirements and corresponding test methods, assessment, and verification of constancy of performance (AVCP) and marking. 

Note1: BS EN 12966 covers mobile, temporary, and permanently installed VMS used in circulation areas, on public and private land, including tunnels for the information, guidance, warning, and/or direction of traffic. Test modules are used to demonstrate compliance with the requirements. 

Note2: Provisions for the evaluation of conformity with regards to type testing are further specified in 6.2; provisions with regards to factory production control (FPC) are further specified in 6.3. 

Note3: BS EN 12966 does not cover: 

• Sign gantries, cantilevers, posts (supports) and foundations 
• Signal heads 
• Sizes and shapes of VMS messages 
• Control units and monitoring units unless inside the VMS 
• Control of sign luminance 

Who is BS EN 12966 - Variable message traffic signs for? 

BS EN 12966 on the variable message traffic signs is useful for: 

• Road safety authorities 
• Transportation department 
• Variable message traffic signs boards manufacturers 

Why should you use BS EN 12966 - Variable message traffic signs?  

Variable message traffic signs (VMS) board consists of LED traffic signal system using graphics in monochrome or colour to warn and guide the people while driving. 

BS EN 12966 is designed for use by manufacturers, who are placing their variable message traffic signs on the market, as well as by Road Authorities and private developers who wish to use variable message signs. It provides requirements for the performance of characteristics of these signs, test and assessment methods, and the means of assessment and verification of constancy of performance (AVCP). BS EN 12966 European Standard is a product standard covering the requirements for variable message traffic signs (VMS). BS EN 12966 contains several defined requirements on VMS, some of which must be demonstrated on the test module, others that are to be verified by the manufacturer. It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to ensure that the VMS is fully represented by the test module. 

BS EN 12966 provides useful guidance on the additional aspects relating to VMS for those setting up purchasing contracts for signs or signing systems that are used to post traveller information messages to inform drivers of incidents, travel times, detours, dedicated events, and other useful road conditions or travel information. 

What is changed since the last update?  

BS EN 12966:2014+A1:2018 supersedes BS EN 12966:2014, which is withdrawn. 

BS EN 12966:2014+A1:2018 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 12966:2014.  

These include: 

• The new structure of the standard has been adapted to the structure proposed by CEN BT for harmonized standards 
• Consequently, the contents of Clauses 4 to 8 of the previous edition have been moved to clause 4, Product characteristics, in 4.1 to 4.6 
• Contents of clause 9 of the previous edition have been moved to clause 5, Testing, assessment, and sampling methods 
• Contents of clause 11 of the previous edition have been moved to clause 8, marking, labelling, and packaging