Understanding PAS 2161:2024 - Road Condition Monitoring Data Specification
Yesterday the DfT published PAS 2161. PAS 2161:2024 represents a landmark introduction in the management and reporting of road conditions for councils in England. Drawn from the insights of the 2018 Local Roads Funding and Governance report by the Transport Select Committee, it aims to standardise road condition monitoring (RCM) data across the country.
Key Aims of PAS 2161:2024
The primary objectives of the PAS 2161:2024 are multifaceted, focusing on creating a unified and efficient approach towards road condition monitoring. These include:
- Establishing Condition Categories: By defining clear condition categories for road networks, the PAS aims to facilitate a consistent understanding and assessment of road health.
- Consistent Data Handling: It emphasises adopting a standardised methodology for the capture, processing, and reporting of RCM data, ensuring uniformity across different jurisdictions.
- Technology Classification: The specification outlines the different types of technology that can be utilised in RCM data collection.
- National Reporting Standardisation: It seeks to unify the format and structure of reporting condition categories to the Department for Transport, fostering national coherence.
- Deliverables Format: Standardising the deliverables for RCM data ensures that the information provided to stakeholders is consistent and easily interpretable.
- Technology Capability Demonstration: Lastly, it aims to validate the capabilities of RCM technologies in accurately reporting road condition categories, ensuring reliability and efficacy.
Impact on Councils and Broader Implications
The introduction of PAS 2161:2024 is set to revolutionise how English councils manage and report road conditions. Not only does it refine the process of national reporting, but it also offers guidance for local asset management, despite varying approaches by different authorities.
While the PAS does not enforce requirements for asset management purposes, it acknowledges the local variability in asset management practices among authorities and aims to provide a comprehensive guide to optimising the application of RCM data.
Route Reports RCM Innovation
The PAS 2161:2024 embodies a significant shift towards more systematic and standardised road condition monitoring and reporting.
The hopes are that its introduction will enhance the efficiency, reliability, and consistency of road asset management across England. Route Reports is already working with Councils to help implement the standard for their Road Condition Data. As councils adapt to this new framework, the long-term benefits expected are those of improved road conditions, better informed asset management decisions, and more effective use of resources.
This evolution in RCM data specification undoubtedly sets a new benchmark for quality and precision in road infrastructure management and at Route Reports, we're here, providing the tech to do just that.
We'll be discussing this issue in more detail at Strictly Highways and are looking forward to sharing more insights after the event. In the meantime, contact our team to find out more about RCM at Route Reports and how we're supporting authorities and contractors to make this important shift.
Further info:
- Read more from LCRIG here - LCRIG Update 26 September
- Download the PAS here: Road Condition Monitoring (data) specification
