Temporary Workplace Traffic Control Manual

The Temporary Workplace Traffic Control Manual (PDF) (Manual) is the method the Minister of Public Works uses to 'publish' the minimum standards for traffic control at temporary workplaces on or near the roads for which he / she has legal authority.

The Manual is revised periodically. When changes occur, the Minister updates the Web copy noted below. As soon as 'published' on the Web, the newer edition becomes the current legal edition. It becomes effective on the (Web) publication date, and supersedes all previously published editions, whether published in hard copy or electronically.

The Department of Public Works (Department) may not reach every Manual user while broadcasting notifications of changes. It is therefore the sole responsibility of Manual users to check periodically to make sure they have the latest and legal edition.

Current Edition of the Manual and Manual Distribution

Current legal edition of the Manual: novascotia.ca/tran/tcm/traffic-control-manual.pdf

The Department does not distribute printed copies of the Manual.

Changes Since the Last Published Edition of the Manual

The Foreword, starting just inside the front cover of the Manual, has a summary of the differences between the 2018 edition of the Manual and the 2023 edition.  Manual users are encouraged to make themselves familiar with changes before doing any work that might be impacted by the changes.

Manual Copyright

The Manual is copyrighted, therefore may not be altered, except as authorized by the Department.  It may not be copied, or distributed, in whole or in part for profit or gain, without express written permission from the Department.

Individuals may copy this document for their own use without additional permission.  Agencies and companies may copy and distribute the document within their agency or company for training, and to support compliance with standards in the Manual.

Questions arising from the publication of this Manual may be directed to the Department’s Traffic Engineering and Road Safety office via: tcm@novascotia.ca .

Old Editions of the Manual

Archived editions of the Manual may be accessed by submitting a request to the Department’s Traffic Engineering and Road Safety office via tcm@novascotia.ca.

Additional Information

The following links provide commonly requested information:

  • A List of Approved Trainers (PDF)
    These are trainers who deliver temporary workplace safety programs for the Department; they deliver the Traffic Control Person and Temporary Workplace Signer programs.

  • Temporary Workplace FAQ’s (PDF)
    This answers some common questions about Temporary Workplaces and is written to help Temporary Workplace Signers comply with standards and requirements of the Manual.

  • Temporary Workplace Planning and Preparation Checklist (PDF)
    This is a checklist as would be used by a Temporary Workplace Signer planning a temporary workplace solution. As required by the Manual, it is used to create a record of roadway conditions, and temporary workplace solutions.

  • Mobile Delineator Application Form and Safe Work Practice Template (PDF)
    This is an application form for those planning to lay out or pick up delineators from a moving vehicle. As per Manual entry, section 13.3, rule 3.7, approval of equipment and procedures are required from the Department before this work type is permitted.

  • Traffic Authority Approval Letter for AFADs (PDF)
    This letter of approval applies only to provincially owned roads. Where an AFAD is to be used on a municipally owned road, the Temporary Workplace Signer must ensure that the municipal traffic authority responsible for the road has authorized the AFAD to be used.

  • Understanding Automated Flagger Devices (PDF)
    Government of Nova Scotia approved the use of Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFADs) for use on Nova Scotia roads. You will start to see AFADs in use at many temporary workplaces and constructions zones. This document provides information on understanding and navigating an AFAD.

Contact

Traffic Control Manual enquiries
tcm@novascotia.ca

TCP/TWS certificates (lost, damaged, general enquiries)
Phone: 902-424-2533
trafficpermits@novascotia.ca