scope:

General Description

Automatic open crossings locally monitored plus Barriers (AOCL + B) are AOCL crossings that have been cost effectively retrofitted with barriers to improve safety at that site. The AOCL + B is an interim crossing type only. When the underlying AOCL equipment becomes due for renewal, the crossing shall be either renewed as an ABCL or to a different type of crossing as determined by the normal renewal and assessment process.

AOCL + B crossings shall fulfil the requirements of the AOCL section except where modified by this section.

To a road user the crossing shall appear to be an ABCL crossing. But there are different failure modes due to the minimum of change to the AOCL circuitry.

Where the road is wide enough the barriers shall be standard half barriers.

Barriers are also intended to be fitted to narrower roads than previously. In this case the half barrier length shall be reduced to maintain an exit gap of 3m minimum measured to the kerb, or 3.2m to the edge of the road where no distinct kerb (or equivalent), is provided. Where even 3.2m cannot be obtained, the gap may be narrowed to a minimum of 1.5m with site specific agreement of the ORR.

Other than to meet the requirements of this section there is no requirement to bring the existing AOCL circuitry up to modern standards. There is no requirement to provide emergency plungers or similar equipment etc.