Drivers could face more delays on the Queensferry Crossing due to the threat of falling ice.
Specialist monitoring equipment will be installed so a warning can be issued when ice is likely to build up on the Forth bridge’s cables.
If there is a danger of it falling, lanes could be closed to protect motorists.
It comes after the windscreens of three cars were smashed by ice last winter, prompting an investigation.
The wet, windy and freezing conditions which caused the ice to form on the bridge on March 16 were said to be very rare.
The Forth Road Bridge was only closed once due to ice in 54 years.
Transport Scotland said the monitoring devices would allow it to step in if it was clear ice was becoming a hazard.
A spokesman said: “Since the incident earlier this year Transport Scotland has been working closely with our contractor and operating company to investigate conditions that led to ice formation on the Queensferry Crossing.
“It is our understanding that a unique set of combined weather conditions, including wind, temperature and moisture caused the build-up of ice and subsequent thawing.
“Understanding the exact conditions allows us to put processes into place to plan ahead and anticipate when this might happen in future.
“We are also installing additional monitoring equipment, to ensure we can provide early warnings to road users should it be required.”
Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife Murdo Fraser said he was alarmed to hear of the problem.
He said: “Not only is this a risk to driver safety, but the disruption it could cause for commuters and businesses is significant.”
Mr Fraser requested an update in the Scottish Parliament of snagging works on the crossing, after getting stuck in a tailback himself.
Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport infrastructure and connectivity, said “good progress” was being made and the contractor had advised the programme would be completed by the end of the year, weather permitting.
He said: “Traffic management will continue to be required at times to enable safe access by operatives when they are undertaking those works.
“All works that require traffic management are undertaken overnight to minimise disruption to road users.”
