At a glance
- Short name
- RSA 21
- Edition
- 2021
- Replaces
- RSA 95
- Core
- Standard layouts
The name
RSA stands for the German “Richtlinien für die verkehrsrechtliche Sicherung von Arbeitsstellen an Straßen”, the guidelines for securing work zones on roads. 21 refers to the 2021 edition, introduced step by step across the federal states.
What do they cover?
They describe how work zones are marked and secured:
- Traffic signs
- Barriers
- Guidance devices
- Lighting
At their core are the standard layouts (Regelpläne): model solutions for typical situations, by road type.
Work zones on roads in towns and cities.
Work zones outside built-up areas.
Work zones on motorways and similar roads.
Who needs to know them?
Everyone who plans, sets up, inspects or is responsible for work zones on public roads:
- Construction firms
- Utility contractors
- Traffic management firms
- Municipal depots
- Site managers
Traffic order before work starts
Before any work that affects road traffic begins, the responsible road traffic authority must issue a traffic order (§ 45 (6) StVO).
- ApplyTo the responsible road traffic authority.
- Receive the orderIt defines how to secure the zone, usually by a standard layout.
- Set up and inspectInstall the measures and check them while work is ongoing.
What changed from RSA 95?
The RSA 21 are restructured and updated to current signs and technology.
Anyone trained under RSA 95 should refresh their knowledge, as layouts and requirements have changed.
Not legal advice. The official versions of the regulations and the traffic order in each case apply.
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