Risk Control in TMPs: How to Apply the Hierarchy of Control Under AGTTM

Introduction

A TMP is a risk management document first, and a layout second.

The Austroads Guide to Temporary Traffic Management (AGTTM) requires every control in a TMP to be linked to a hazard, evaluated, and justified using the hierarchy of control.

Here’s how to apply that in a practical, auditable way.

What is the Hierarchy of Control?

A structured approach to hazard control:

1. Eliminate – Remove the hazard entirely

2. Substitute – Replace with something less hazardous

3. Engineer – Design out or physically separate the risk

4. Administrative – Procedures, planning, training

5. PPE – The last line of defence

Reference: AGTTM02-21, Section 3.3.4

Why It Matters in TMPs

Authorities, auditors, and contractors want to see:

• Why each device or measure was selected

• Whether higher-level controls were considered first

• That residual risk is addressed

The hierarchy makes your TMP defensible, repeatable, and adaptable.

Examples by Control Level

Control Level	Traffic Management Example
Eliminate	Close road instead of partial closure
Substitute	Use automated stop/slow vs. TC
Engineer	Safety barrier or pedestrian fencing
Admin	TGS sequence, traffic controller briefing
PPE	High-vis, helmets, gloves

Documentation Tips

Include this in your TMP risk register:

• Hazard description

• Level of control selected

• Why higher controls weren’t used

• Residual risk rating

This demonstrates deliberate decision-making, not generic planning.

Common Mistakes

• Jumping straight to PPE or admin controls

• Using a safety barrier without assessing deflection clearance

• Listing traffic controllers with no risk justification

• Using generic controls not suited to the hazard

Real-World Tip

Think of the hierarchy as a checklist before you draw your TGS:

What could we eliminate? If not, what can we substitute or engineer?

Only then should you design cones, signs, or controller placements.

What Auditors Look For

• Is the hierarchy clearly visible in the TMP?

• Are controls ranked and explained?

• Does the TGS reflect the documented risks?

If your TMP shows a TC on a 90 km/h road with no justification, expect red flags.

Final Word

AGTTM isn’t just about signs and cones. It’s about proving that risk was understood, managed, and controlled.

Apply the hierarchy. Document the logic. Build TMPs that stand up to scrutiny and protect people.