colorado ltapltap.colorado.edu/newsletter/newsletter_spring08.pdf · 2a.08, and 2a.22. these...

pproximately half of the fatalcrashes on the nation's highways

occur at night, despite the fact that travelat night is significantly less than duringthe daytime. The Federal HighwayAdministration (FHWA) is interested infinding ways to remedy the nighttimesafety problem. Their Road DepartureProgram’s first objective is keepingvehicles on the road. This requireseffective delineation of the roadway inboth day and night conditions.

Nighttime visibility ofsigns and pavement markingsis essential for roadway safety.Night visibility can beprovided in many ways, butprimarily through headlightillumination of traffic controldevices (TCD), illumination ofthe TCD or the legend itself, or byoverhead fixed lighting. The objective isto provide adequate levels of luminance toassure that traffic control devices arenoticeable and legible to drivers.

When a driver sees a traffic sign atnight, he is viewing the sign’s luminance,or brightness. The effectiveness ofheadlight illumination is measured interms of retroreflectivity. The driver doesnot “see” retroreflectivity.

Retroreflectivity is a scientific term forthe ability of a material to reflect lightdirectly back towards its source. Allsurfaces reflect light, but in most casesthe light is scattered in all directions.Mirrors for example provide a surface thatreflects light in a specular fashion, or atan equal and opposite angle from the lightsource. Retroreflectivity is achieved byincluding micro-sized glass beads(enclosed or encapsulated) or by usingmicro-prisms (cube corner reflectors) into

the sign sheeting material. Asign can reflect only the lightthat reaches it. Variations insign sheeting technologyresult in differing levels ofretroreflectivity. The higherthe retroreflectivity measurethe greater amount of the

light can be returned toward the source.This property in traffic sign materials isimportant for providing increasednighttime visibility.

Sign sheeting with highretroreflectivity values may be desirabledue to wearing and aging of materials,changing conditions of headlights,ambient atmospheric conditions, and otherphysical factors that influence nightvisibility.

March 2008 Serving local transportation agencies throughout Colorado Spring Issue

Colorado LTAP

COVER STORYRetroreflectivityRequirements

WZ Safety & MobilityRule 3

Retro ComplianceDates 4

Retro MUTCD Table 8

What’s New in theLibrary 9

Rule ImplementationGuides 11

Traffic Control DevicesRule 12

Worker Visibilty Rule13

MUTCD Out for Review14

Retroreflectometer LoanProgram 14

Upcoming Events 15

Roads Scholar &Supervisory SkillsGraduates 15

FREE MATERIALS 16

In This Issue

...continued on page 4

LOOKLOOKINSIDEINSIDE

WZ & WorkerVisibility Rules

A

Sign Retroreflectivity RequirementsSign Retroreflectivity RequirementsAdded to the MUTCD

Maintaining Traffic Sign Retroreflectivty

Colorado LTAP/ Spring 2008Colorado LTAP/ Spring 2008

Director’s CornerDirector’s Corner

STAFFSTAFF

Yunping XiYunping XiUniversityAdministrator

Renée KollerRenée KollerDirector

Lindsay NathanielLindsay NathanielTraining Coordinator

Nattapong, Haideh &Nattapong, Haideh &Marty ButcherMarty Butcher

Library-Office Assistants

Jeremy GoldsmithJeremy GoldsmithWebmaster

The Colorado LocalTechnical AssistanceProgram is sponsored bythe Federal HighwayAdministration, theColorado Department ofTransportation, and theUniversity of Coloradoat Boulder.

The Colorado LTAPNewsletter is publishedquarterly. Articles,pictures and commentsare welcome.

For more information,contact:

Colorado LTAPUniversity of Coloradoat Boulder3100 Marine St., A-213UCB 561Boulder, CO 80309-0561

Office: (303) 735-3530Toll Free: (888) 848-LTAP

Fax: (303) 735-2968

Email:[email protected]

Website:http://ltap.colorado.edu

Colorado LTAP

In preparation for FLOOD season...

“There is a tide in the affairs of men, which, taken at the flood,leads on to fortune. We must take the current when it serves,or lose our ventures.”

- William Shakespeare

“We must build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear.”- Martin Luther King, Jr.

“No loss by flood and lightening, no destruction of cities andtemples by the hostile forces of nature, has deprived man of somany noble lives and impulses as those which his intolerancehas destroyed”

- Helen Keller

“No individual raindrop ever considers itself responsible for theflood.” - Unknown

“Nobody's strong enough to stand up under a flood of weakmaterial.” - Alan Ladd

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2008 wi l l be Great !2008 wi l l be Great !That’s my motto for the coming year. We had quite a few bumps in the road to

climb over in 2007 both personal andprofessional - but it has only made us stronger.We are excited for what we have in store foryou in 2008 - including hosting the NationalLTAP Conference in Breckenridge in July!

We have just completed our 10th year ofColorado LTAP’s association between theUniversity of Colorado at Boulder and CDOT.The University of Colorado has also beenawarded the next five-year contract. ColoradoLTAP staff will continue to improve theavailable resources for local agencies - and wealways welcome suggestions!

In 2007, we provided 78 training courses to1,964 participants, resulting in over 13,460training hours. There were 6900 recipients ofour quarterly Newsletter. All of our focusareas of Safety, Workforce Development,Infrastructure Management, and ValueDelivery were covered through training andarticles. We successfully completed two heavyequipment training programs thanks topartnerships with Arapahoe County and LaPlata County. There were 53 Roads Scholar

participants and 3 Supervisory Skillsparticipants who completed the trainingprogram requirements and received theirplaques in 2007. We partnered with theColorado Contractor’s Association to certify35 participants in the Traffic ControlSupervisory Certification course; and wecertified 95 participants in our 5 free FlaggerCertification workshops. There were 279library materials checked out and 3,337 freematerials distributed throughout 2007. Therewere 77 new publications, 12 bulk materials,28 new CDs, 6 new DVDs, 6 new videos, and32 different types of bulk free materials addedto our library loan program. There were 8agencies that requested traffic count services;and 6 agencies that loaned ourretroreflectometer. Colorado LTAP had abooth at 5 trade shows and conferences; held 4Advisory Committee meetings withrepresentatives from local agencies across thestate; and hosted the LTAP Region 8 meetingin 2007.

We are looking forward to working with allof our local partners and agencies for anothersuccessful year in 2008!

Colorado LTAP/ Spring 2008Colorado LTAP/ Spring 2008 Page 3

Colorado LTAPColorado LTAPAdvisory CommitteeAdvisory Committee

MembersMembers

Marlene CrosbyMarlene CrosbyGunnison County

John BakerJohn BakerTown of Snowmass

Adam LancasterAdam LancasterCity of Cañon City

Richard McKeeRichard McKeeCity of Longmont

Tammie CrawfordTammie CrawfordRoutt County

Doyle VillersDoyle VillersLaPlata County

Kevin ScottKevin ScottPhillips County

Beth MooreBeth MooreCDOT

Craig LarsonCraig LarsonFHWA

Yunping XiYunping XiUniversity of Colorado

at Boulder

Renée KollerRenée KollerColorado LTAP

The Rule on Work Zone Safety andMobility was published in the FederalRegister (69 FR 54562) on September 9,2004. All state and local governments thatreceive Federal-aid funding were requiredto comply with the provisions of the ruleby October 12, 2007. The rule updatesand broadens the former regulation"Traffic Safety in Highway and StreetWork Zones" in 23 CFR 630 Subpart J toaddress more of the current issuesaffecting work zone safety and mobility.

While the original rule addressedprocedures and plans to provide for roaduser and highway worker safety, it did notaddress the broader impacts of workzones. Current issues and trends such as -increasing traffic volumes and congestion;highways approaching middle agerequiring more construction and repair;pressure on contractors to compressschedules, finish projects early, andperform work at night; travelers frustratedwith the delays, unexpected roadconditions, and work zone inconsistencies;all made a strong case for updating therule to address these issues and betterprovide for work zone safety and mobility.Changes to the regulation encouragebroader consideration across projectdevelopment, and the implementation ofstrategies that help manage the impacts ofwork zones during project delivery.

Rule OverviewWithin the Work Zone Safety and

Mobility Rule are three primarycomponents: 1) Implementation of anoverall, state-level work zone safety andmobility policy; 2) Development andimplementation of standard processes andprocedures to support policy

implementation, including procedures forwork zone impacts assessment, analyzingwork zone data, training, and processreviews; and 3) Development andimplementation of procedures to assessand manage work zone impacts onindividual projects. This includesrequirements for identifying significantprojects and developing and implementingtransportation management plans(TMPs). A significant project is defined inthe rule as one that, alone or incombination with other concurrent projectsnearby, is anticipated to cause sustainedwork zone impacts that are greater thanwhat is considered tolerable.

The updated Rule expands the conceptof "work zone traffic control" to "workzone transportation management.” Theupdated Rule provides for the systematicconsideration of work zone impacts ofroad projects, and the development ofappropriate TMPs that help manage thoseimpacts during implementation. Theformer Rule focused on the developmentof Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) for roadprojects and providing for the safety ofmotorists and workers. The updated Ruleemphasizes the importance of safety butalso adds a focus on providing formobility. The updated Rule requiresTMPs to be developed and implementedfor all projects. TMP strategies for a workzone include temporary traffic controlmeasures and devices, public informationand outreach, and operational strategies(e.g., travel demand management, signalretiming, traffic incident management,etc.). The strategies included in a TMPwill vary based upon the expected workzone impacts of the road project.

Rules, Rules and More Rules Rules, Rules and More Rules How to keep them all straight?

By Renée Koller and Lindsay Nathaniel


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Work Zone Safety and Mobility RuleWork Zone Safety and Mobility Rule

Colorado LTAP/ Spring 2008 Colorado LTAP/ Spring 2008

MUTCDMUTCDRETRO-RETRO-

REFLECTIVITYREFLECTIVITYREVISIONREVISION

Revision 2 of the 2003MUTCD was publishedin the Federal Registeron December 21, 2007,making the signretroreflectivityrequirements a federalregulation effective onJanuary 22, 2008.

The second revision ofthe 2003 MUTCDintroduces newlanguage establishingminimum retroreflectivitylevels that must bemaintained for trafficsigns.

Agencies have untilJanuary 2012January 2012 toestablish andimplement a signassessment ormanagement methodto maintainminimum levels ofsign retroreflectivity.

The compliance date forregulatory, warning, andground-mounted guidesigns is January 2015.

The compliance date foroverhead guidesigns and street namesigns is January 2018.

The new MUTCDlanguage is shown onpage 7 and 8 of thisdocument.

Sign Retroreflectivity RequirementsSign Retroreflectivity RequirementsAdded to the MUTCD

For headlamps, the old sealed beamheadlamp provides a brighter sign.However, modern cutoff headlamps directless light toward the sign and the signlooks dimmer if all other factors are equal.The larger the vehicle size, the less brighta sign appears. This is because of thelarger observation angle to the sign causedby the greater distance between the drivereyes and the headlamps. There isadditional need for use of higherretroreflective materials to meet the needsof older drivers. Research has shown that a59-year old driver needs 8 times morelight than a 20-year old to see the sameobject while driving!

Traffic signs provide importantinformation to drivers at all times, bothday and night. To be effective, theirvisibility must be maintained. Since thefirst edition of the Manual on UniformTraffic Control Devices (MUTCD) in 1935the manual has required signs to be visibleat night by using reflectiveelements in the sign face. In1993, Congress directed the USDOT to “revise the MUTCD toinclude a standard for aminimum level of retro-reflectivity that must bemaintained for pavementmarkings and signs, which shallapply to all roads open topublic travel.“ Initial minimumretroreflectivity levels weredeveloped in 1993 anddocumented in “MinimumRetroreflectivity Requirementsfor Traffic Signs”, TechnicalReport, FHWA-RD-93-077. Since the1993 directive, FHWA has workeddiligently to develop a rational set ofminimum requirements for signretroreflectivity, assessment andmanagement methods, and technologiesfor the evaluation of traffic signs. Theproposed minimum retroreflectivity levelswere updated to account for changes invehicle headlight attributes (i.e. brighter,but with a different illumination pattern),the vehicle fleet mix (i.e. the large numberof SUVs has increased the averageheadlight and driver eye heights), an

increasingly older driver population, thechanges to sign legibility requirements inthe 2000 MUTCD, the need for overheadguide and street name signs, and theemergence of new sign materials since the1993 research. These research effortswere completed in 2003, and have becomethe basis for the minimum maintainedtraffic sign retroreflectivity rulemaking.The 2003 MUTCD addresses signvisibility in several places, includingSections 1A.03, 1A.04, 1A.05, 2A.06,2A.08, and 2A.22. These sections addressfactors such as uniformity, design,placement, operation, and maintenance.Previously, the MUTCD did not specifyminimum retroreflectivity levels.

Announcement of Final RuleRevision 2 of the 2003MUTCD was published in theFederal Register on December21, 2007, making the signretroreflectivity requirements afederal regulation effective onJanuary 22, 2008. The finalrule provides additionalrequirements, guidance,clarification, and flexibility inmaintaining traffic signretroreflectivity that is alreadyrequired by the MUTCD. Theminimum retroreflectivitylevels and maintenancemethods consider changes in

the composition of the vehicle population,vehicle headlamp design, and thedemographics of drivers. The FHWAexpects that the minimum maintainedretroreflectivity levels and maintenancemethods will help to promote safety andmobility on the nation’s streets andhighways.

The new standard in Section 2A.09Maintaining Minimum Retroreflectivityrequires that agencies maintain trafficsigns to a minimum level ofretroreflectivity outlined in Table 2A-3 ofthe MUTCD (included on page 8). The

continued from page 1...

Revision 2 of the2003 MUTCD waspublished in theFederal Register onDecember 21, 2007,making the signretroreflectivityrequirements afederal regulationeffective on

January 22, 2008.


FHWA believes that this proposed changewill promote safety while providingsufficient flexibility for agencies to choosea maintenance method that best matchestheir specific conditions.

Including Table 2A-3 in the MUTCDdoes not imply that an agency mustmeasure the retroreflectivity of every sign.Rather, the new MUTCD languagedescribes five methods that agencies canuse to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivityat or above the minimum levels.

Agencies can choose from thesemethods or combine them. Agencies areallowed to develop other appropriatemethods based on engineering studies.However, agencies should adopt aconsistent method that produces resultsthat correspond to the values in Table 2A-3.

The new MUTCD language recognizesthat there may be some individual signsthat do not meet the minimumretroreflectivity levels at a particular pointin time. As long as the agency withjurisdiction is maintaining signsin accordance with Section2A.09 of the MUTCD, theagency will be considered to bein compliance. This documentdescribes methods that can beused to maintain signretroreflectivity at or above theMUTCD's minimummaintained retroreflectivitylevels.

RetroreflectivityMaintenance

The MUTCD describes twobasic types of methods thatagencies can use to maintainsign retroreflectivity at or abovethe MUTCD minimummaintained retroreflectivity levels —assessment methods and managementmethods. The FHWA has identified andlisted assessment and managementmethods for maintaining sign retro-reflectivity in accordance with Section2A.09. These methods are described here;a full report on these methods can befound at www.fhwa.dot.gov/retro.

ASSESSMENT METHODSASSESSMENT METHODSAssessment methods require evaluation

of individual signs within an agency'sjurisdiction. There are two basic

assessment methods — visual assessmentand measured sign retroreflectivity.

1. Visual Assessment

Nighttime InspectionIn the visual nighttime inspection

method, on-the-fly assessments ofretroreflectivity are made by an inspectorduring nighttime conditions. The followingrecommendations provide generalguidance for the inspections:

◙ Develop guidelines and procedures forinspectors to use in conducting thenighttime inspections and train inspectorsin the use of these procedures.

◙ Conduct inspections at normal speedfrom the travel lane(s).

◙ Conduct inspections using low-beamheadlights while minimizing interiorvehicle lighting.

◙ Evaluate signs at typical viewingdistances so that adequate time is availablefor an appropriate driving response.

One or more of the followingprocedures should be used tosupport visual inspections.

Calibration Signs ProcedureIn this procedure, an

inspector views a "calibrationsign" prior to conducting thenighttime inspection describedabove.

Calibration signs haveknown retroreflectivity levelsat or above minimum levels.These signs are set up wherethe inspector can view thecalibration signs in a mannersimilar to nighttime fieldinspections. The inspector usesthe visual appearance of the

calibration sign to establish the evaluationthreshold for that night's inspectionactivities. The following factors provideadditional information on the use of thisprocedure:

◙ Calibration signs are needed for eachcolor of sign in Table 2A-3.

◙ Calibration signs are viewed at typicalviewing distances using the inspectionvehicle.

◙ Calibration signs need to be properlystored between inspections so that theirretroreflectivity does not deteriorate overtime.

Table 2A-3 in theMUTCD does notimply that anagency mustmeasure the

retroreflectivity ofevery sign. As longas the agency is

maintaining signs inaccordance withSection 2A.09, theagency will be

considered to be incompliance.

* For the last 25 years,50% or more of the fatalcrashes have occurredat night despite thelower volumes of trafficat night.

* Overall annualfatalities on UShighways have declinedfrom about 50,331 in1978 to 42,643 in 2003.

* Crashes during dawnand dusk are relatively asmall portion of the fatalcrashes.

* Despite a long-termdownward trend, thenight crash rate is stillabout three times higherthan that during the day!

DidDidYouYou

Know?Know?

LTAP RETRO-LTAP RETRO-REFLECTIVITYREFLECTIVITY

TRAININGTRAINING

FHWA will be teachingLTAPs a train-the trainercourse in July.Colorado LTAP will beoffering several full-dayretroreflectivity classesthis Fall. The course willcover new rules andregulations, how itaffects local agencies,what agencies can do,assessment methods,and managementmethods. The coursewill also provide a toolkitfor locals on step-by-step what they need todo, and sample lettersto use when asking forfunding.


◙ Calibration sign retroreflectivityshould be verified periodically.

Comparison Panels ProcedureComparison panels are used to assess

signs that have marginal retroreflectivity.The comparison panels are fabricated atretroreflectivity levels at or above theminimum levels. When the visualinspection identifies the retroreflectivity ofa sign as marginal, a comparison panel isattached to the sign and the sign/panelcombination is viewed and compared bythe inspector.

Consistent ParametersProcedure

Nighttime inspections areconducted under similar factorsthat were used in the researchto develop the minimumretroreflectivity levels. Thesefactors include:

◙ Using a sport utilityvehicle or pick-up truck toconduct the inspection.

◙ Using a model year 2000or newer vehicle for theinspection.

◙ Using an inspector who isat least 60 years old.

2. Measured Sign Retroreflectivity

In this method the retroreflectivity of asign is measured and directly compared tothe minimum level appropriate for thatsign. ASTM E1709, Standard Test Methodfor Measurement of Retroreflective SignsUsing a Portable Retroreflectometer,provides a standard method for measuringsign retroreflectivity.

MANAGEMENT METHODSMANAGEMENT METHODSManagement methods provide an

agency with the ability to maintain signretroreflectivity without having to assessindividual signs. There are three basicmanagement methods—sign replacementbased on expected sign life, blanketreplacement of large numbers of signs atappropriate intervals, and use of controlsigns.

1. Expected Sign Life

In this method, individual signs arereplaced before they reach the end of their

expected service life, which is the timeanticipated for the retroreflective materialto degrade to the appropriate minimumlevel. Expected service life can be basedon sign sheeting warranties, weatheringdeck results, measurements of field signs,or other criteria.

This method requires a system fortracking sign age. A common approach foridentifying the age of individual signs usesa label on the sign to mark the year offabrication or installation. Signmanagement systems can also be used totrack the age of individual signs.

2. Blanket Replacement

With this method, anagency replaces all signs in anarea, or of a given type, atspecified time intervals basedon the relevant expected signlife. This method typicallyrequires that all of thedesignated signs within areplacement area, or of theparticular sign type, bereplaced even if a sign wasrecently installed.

3. Control Signs

In this method, a control sample ofsigns is used to represent all of an agency'ssigns. The retroreflectivity of the controlsigns is monitored and sign replacement isbased on the performance of the controlsigns.

◙ Agencies should develop a samplingplan to determine the appropriate numberand type of control signs needed torepresent the agency's signs.

◙ Control signs may be actual signs inthe field or signs in a maintenance yard(for convenience).

◙ The retroreflectivity of the controlsigns should be monitored using anassessment method.

A complete list of “what has changed”in Revision 2 of the MUTCD in regards toretroreflectivity is accessible at:http://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/roadway_dept/retro/index.htm.

Sources:FHWA-SA-07-020 and http://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/roadway_dept/retro

An agency canchoose to use eitheran assessmentmethod or a

management method,or a combination of the two.Agencies maydevelop other

methods as long asthey are documentedin an engineering

study andcorrespond to thevalues in Table 2A-3.

FREQUENTLYFREQUENTLYASKED QUESTIONSASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use any type of signsheeting as long as itsretroreflectivity meets theminimum specified levels?

The new Table 2A-3 indicatesthat any type of sheetingincluding the Type I (EngineeringGrade), Type II (SuperEngineering Grade), or Type IIIbeaded (High Intensity Beaded)sheeting and the Type III, IV, VI,VII, VIII, IX, or X prismaticsheeting may be used on anysign with the followingexceptions: Types I, II, and IIIbeaded sheeting cannot be usedfor the white legends onoverhead guide signs; Type Ibeaded sheeting cannot be usedfor the white legends on ground-mounted guide signs; and Type Ibeaded sheeting cannot be usedfor the yellow or orangebackgrounds on warning andtemporary traffic control signs.

Can I still use Type IEngineering Grade (EG)sign sheeting?

Type I Engineering Grade signsheeting may still be used forwhite, green, and redbackgrounds. Type I EG signsheeting also may still be usedfor the white legend on a signwith a red background. Thus,STOP signs and black-on-whiteregulatory signs may still bemade from Type I EG signsheeting. However, whenagencies review their signingpractices and their choice of signmaterials, the annualized costs ofthe signs using factors such asexpected sign life should beconsidered. Even though aparticular type of sheeting mightinitially meet the minimum retro-reflectivity levels when it is new,it might quickly degrade to belowthe minimum retroreflectivitylevels, thus losing itseffectiveness at night andrequiring replacement the nexttime its retroreflectivity isassessed. The use of higherperformance sheeting, eventhough it has a higher initial cost,might provide a better life-cyclecost for the agency.


New MUTCD Section 2A.09 New MUTCD Section 2A.09 Maintaining Minimum Retroreflectivity

Support:Retroreflectivity is one of several factorsassociated with maintaining nighttime signvisibility (see Section 2A.22).

Standard:Standard:Public agencies or officials havingjurisdiction shall use an assessment ormanagement method that is designedto maintain sign retroreflectivity at orabove the minimum levels in Table 2A-3.

Support:Compliance with the above Standard isachieved by having a method in place andusing the method to maintain theminimum levels established in Table 2A-3.Provided that an assessment or manage-ment method is being used, an agency orofficial having jurisdiction would be incompliance with the above Standard evenif there are some individual signs that donot meet the minimum retroreflectivitylevels at a particular point in time.

Guidance:Except for those signs specificallyidentified in the Option portion of thisSection, one or more of the followingassessment or management methodsshould be used to maintain signretroreflectivity:

1. Visual Nighttime Inspection – Theretroreflectivity of an existing sign isassessed by a trained sign inspectorconducting a visual inspection from amoving vehicle during nighttimeconditions. Signs that are visuallyidentified by the inspector to haveretroreflectivity below the minimum levelsshould be replaced.

2. Measured Sign Retroreflectivity –Retroreflectivity is measured using aretroreflectometer. Signs withretroreflectivity below the minimum levelsshould be replaced.

3. Expected Sign Life – When signs areinstalled, the installation date is labeled orrecorded so that the age of a sign isknown. The age of the sign is comparedto the expected sign life. The expected

sign life is based on the experience ofsign retroreflectivity degradation in ageographic area compared to theminimum levels. Signs older than theexpected life should be replaced.

4. Blanket Replacement – All signs in anarea/corridor, or of a given type, should bereplaced at specified intervals. Thiseliminates the need to assessretroreflectivity or track the life ofindividual signs. The replacement intervalis based on the expected sign life,compared to the minimum levels, for theshortest-life material used on the affectedsigns.

5. Control Signs – Replacement of signsin the field is based on the performance ofa sample of control signs. The controlsigns might be a small sample located ina maintenance yard or a sample of signsin the field. The control signs aremonitored to determine the end ofretroreflective life for the associated signs.All field signs represented by the controlsample should be replaced before theretroreflectivity levels of the controlsample reach the minimum levels.

6. Other Methods – Other methodsdeveloped based on engineering studiescan be used.

Support:Additional information about thesemethods is contained in the 2007 Editionof FHWA's "Maintaining Traffic SignRetroreflectivity" (see Section 1A.11).

Option:Highway agencies may exclude thefollowing signs from the retroreflectivitymaintenance guidelines described in thisSection:1. Parking, Standing, and Stopping signs (R7 and R8 series)

2. Walking/Hitchhiking/Crossing signs (R9 series, R10-1 through R10-4b)

3. Adopt-A-Highway signs4. All signs with blue or brown backgrounds

5. Bikeway signs that are intended forexclusive use by bicyclists or pedestrians.

FREQUENTLYFREQUENTLYASKED QUESTIONSASKED QUESTIONS

Can fluorescent colors be used?Fluorescent versions of signcolors may be used provided thatthey meet the minimum retro-reflectivity levels specified for thebasic color. Fluorescent yellowand fluorescent yellow-greensigns would need to meet theminimum retroreflectivity levelsfor yellow signs, and fluorescentorange signs would need to meetthe minimum retroreflectivitylevels for orange signs.

Why are signs with blue orbrown backgrounds excludedfrom these retro requirements?At the time that the changesassociated with Revision 2 werebeing developed, the researchfor signs with blue or brownbackgrounds had not yet beencompleted. However, a researchreport (FHWA-HRT-08-029) thatprovides minimum recommendedretroreflectivity levels for brownand blue signs was completed in2007 and will be available soon.

Won’t these efforts be costly tohighway agencies?Because of the 7- to 10-yearcompliance period that has beenadopted for replacing signs thathave insufficient retroreflectivity,highway departments will be ableto implement improved signinspection and managementprocedures and subsequentlyreplace the signs in a time framethat is consistent with the typicalsign replacement cycle. As aresult, the cost impacts might belittle more than the additionalcost of using higher performancesign materials. Cost increasesfrom upgrading materials and/orprocesses might be offset by thelong-term savings that result fromthe longer life of the higherperformance sheeting products.

A 1998 FHWA report estimatedthat agencies would be facedwith the need to replace 5- 8% oftheir signs to meet the minimumrequirements (FHWA-RD-97-053).The costs for any particularagency would vary by existingcondition of their signs andnature of their current signmanagement practices. An April2007 update (FHWA-HRT-07-042)of this 1998 report is available at:http://www.tfhrc.gov/safety/pubs/07042/07042.pdf


New MUTCD Minimum Retroreflectivity New MUTCD Minimum Retroreflectivity COMPLIANCE PERIODS

* 4-years for implementation and continued use of an assessment or management method that isdesigned to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivity at or above the established minimum levels;

* 7-years for replacement of regulatory, warning, and ground-mounted guide (except street name) signsthat are identified using the assessment or management methods as failing to meet the establishedminimum levels; and

* 10-years for replacement of street name signs and overhead guide signs that are identified using theassessment or management method as failing to meet the established minimum levels.

New MUTCD TABLE 2A-3. New MUTCD TABLE 2A-3. Minimum Maintained Retroreflectivity Levels1


All videos, publications and CDs in the LTAP lending library are available for checkout for a two-week period, free of charge. To check out

materials or request a library catalogue, contact the Colorado LTAP office at 1-888-848-5827.Below is a list of most recent materials added to the library. Our library materials can also be ordered online at:h t t p : / / l t a p . c o l o r a d o . e d uh t t p : / / l t a p . c o l o r a d o . e d u

New CDs & DVDsNew CDs & DVDsLocation Title

DVD 9THSWT 9 Traits of Highly Successful Work TeamsUnless you've acquired solid team-leadership skills, odds are high you'll be underemployed (perhaps even out of work) by the endof the decade. In this program you'll learn the skills you need to create teams that are efficient and effective. Here are practicaltools to help you and your teammates work together in better harmony, enjoy your jobs more and make greater contributions toyour organization. Learn together as renowned team authority Loren Ankario walks you through nine critical traits of highlysuccesful teams- essential traits a team must have to function at its peak. Program Highlights: Why "purpose" is the backbone ofany true team; How to craft a team mission statement that's more than a motto; The #1 reason why teams succeed - or fail; 3proven strategies for galvanizing diverse individuals into a unified team; The 5 styles of conflict resolutions - when, why, and howto use each; Recognizing the 4 most dangerous symptoms of team fragmentation and how to correct them; and Simple techniquesto keep teams fresh and more immune to burnout.

DVD HDWDP How To Deal With Difficult PeopleThis program takes a long, hard and lighthearted look at what you can do to deal with the peoplewho seem to delight in making your life miserable. Learn to co-exist with all kinds of difficult people - from know-it-talls tobullies, backstabbers and more — and free yourself from their grip. Learn how to handle difficult people once and for all. ProgramHighlights: The best comeback to a biting or sarcastic remark; What to do when someone starts yelling or threatens you; The onemistake people make that's guaranteed to escalate conflict; What to do when your "difficult person" is your boss; When to call in athird party to resolve a stalemate; and How to know when YOU are the difficult one.

CD ADAA ADA & Accessibility Let's Get PracticalThis CD version of APWA’s definitive book on requirements for meeting requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act isbest read using the latest version of Adobe Reader software. Free software for PC can be downloaded at . Mac users can downloadfrom the Adobe web site at: . For optimum functionality and display, use the “bookmark” function to move through the documentwith the Page Display option under VIEW set for “Two-Up.” If you have Internet access while using this CD, websites within thetext are functional. Move your cursor over the link to jump to the appropriate website. The contents of this CD are exclusivelycopyrighted by the American Public Works Association; making copies is strictly prohibited.

CD GSWBBT Guidelines for the Selection of W-Beam Barrier Terminals This CD provides information for designers and construction/maintenance personnel responsible for selecting and properlyinstalling the most appropriate terminal design at any site. Shows the actual crash performance of each terminal type, and providesguidance on proper site grading and presents real-world examples of both appropriate and inappropriate installations.

CD PPT2 Pavement Preservation Toolbox, 2nd Edition, 2007Techniques and strategies in pavement preventative maintenance.

What’sWhat’s NewNewi n t h ei n t h e

LIBRARYLIBRARY??


What’s NewWhat’s Newi n t h ei n t h e

LIBRARY?LIBRARY?

APWA’s “Quick Course to Construction Inspection” Five-Part Series

CD CIPAP Quick Course To Construction Inspection "Paperwork and Processes"From APWA’s new “Quick Course to Construction Inspection”, this five-part series is led by top experts in the constructioninspection field and is intended as an overview for those preferring distance learning. Part ONE of this five-part series covers thefollowing topics: Paperwork and Processes. New construction in developing areas requires public works construction projects.Public works projects also involve maintenance and repair to existing structures. Public works construction must have quality andsafety controls.

CD QCCIITT Quick Course To Construction Inspection "In The Trenches" From APWA’s new “Quick Course to Construction Inspection”, this five-part series is led by top experts in the constructioninspection field and is intended as an overview for those preferring distance learning. Part TWO of this five-part series covers thefollowing topics: Excavation and Confined Space Safety & Underground Pipeline Construction Inspection. As a public worksconstruction inspector, it is important to understand the potential dangers inherent with entering excavations, trenches, and confinedspaces. Learn what steps the public works construction inspector can take to minimize the dangers - such as cave-ins - that areassociated with underground utility construction. Improperly installed underground pipelines pose potential threats to thecommunity’s health and safety and serious consequences to the public agency. Learn the appropriate testing methods for differentmaterials, accept/reject criteria, and key evaluation points that a public works construction inspector needs to look for on the job.

CD QCCILTG Quick Course To Construction Inspection "Laying The Groundwork"From APWA’s new “Quick Course to Construction Inspection”, this five-part series is led by top experts in the constructioninspection field and is intended as an overview for those preferring distance learning. Part THREE of this five-part series covers thefollowing topics:Earthwork Construction Inspection & Street and Surface Improvements. A public works construction project isonly as good as the foundation it was built on! Learn about the general characteristics of soil, how to recognize different soil types,what soil makes the best foundation for a particular project, and when to report soil conditions that are incompatible with designcriteria. Hot mix asphalt concrete (HMAC) paving projects represent a major investment in resources. The public worksconstruction inspector needs to understand the basics of the HMAC paving process. Learn about support conditions, ambientconditions, thickness, reinforcement and load transfer devices and other critical components of a successful project.

CD QCCIFAF Quick Course To Construction Inspection "Framework and Foundation" From APWA’s new “Quick Course to Construction Inspection”, this five-part series is led by top experts in the constructioninspection field and is intended as an overview for those preferring distance learning. Part FOUR of this five-part series covers thefollowing topics: General Concrete Construction Inspection & General Structural Steel Inspection. Concrete construction involvesmany different phases of work from formwork to placement and curing—but most importantly, proper design of the concrete mix.Learn about the standards and inspection points for a concrete construction project, such as concrete ingredients, mixturerequirements, testing procedures, and accept/reject criteria. In Structural Steel Inspection all structural steel materials must be theright type and undergo the correct installation operations according to the plans and specifications. This module will provide a briefoverview of fabrication and erection procedures and the inspector’s general duties.

CD QCCISSFS Quick Course To Construction Inspection "Signals, Scenery, & Final Steps" From APWA’s new “Quick Course to Construction Inspection”, this five-part series is led by top experts in the constructioninspection field and is intended as an overview for those preferring distance learning. Part FIVE of this five-part series covers thefollowing topics: Street Lighting and Traffic Signal Inspection, Landscape and Irrigation Construction Inspection, and ProjectClose-out Procedures. • Street Lighting and Traffic Signal Inspection - Traffic signals and signage, street lights, and pavementmarking may be installed as part of new roadway construction or to improve existing streets or highways. Gain a basic workingknowledge of how these individual systems are designed, constructed, and operated in order to ensure that they are installed asspecified. • Landscape and Irrigation Construction Inspection - Regardless of the climate, no landscaped area will thrive andsurvive without proper irrigation, so it is essential that the installation does not deviate from the project specifications. Learn thebasic construction, installation, and inspection techniques for a public works landscape and irrigation installation. • Project Close-out Procedures - The final inspection and close-out of a public works construction project is necessary to ensure that the end resultis a safe, well-constructed, quality product. Learn about the final inspection process, how to develop a punch list, and whatdocumentation the public works construction inspector will be required to submit.


NationalNationalWork Work ZZoneone

Awareness WeekAwareness Week

April 7 - 11, 2008April 7 - 11, 2008Scheduled in April eachyear, National Work ZoneAwareness Week is anational campaign thathelps increase publicawareness of work zonesafety. Local communityactivities help educate thenation on work-zonerelated injuries andfatalities and the hazardsand dangers that can beencountered and avoidedwhen driving through aroad construction zone.The theme for this year'sNWZAW is

“We Remember”“We Remember”Slow for the Cone Zonehttp://www.atssa.com/cs/root/news_pr/nwzaw_2008

NationalNationalPublic Public WWorks orks

WeekWeekMay 18 - 24, 2008May 18 - 24, 2008NPWW is a celebration ofmen and women in NorthAmerica who provide andmaintain the infrastructureand services collectivelyknown as public works.Instituted as a publiceducation campaign bythe APWA in 1960, NPWWcalls attention to theimportance of publicworks.The week has beencelebrated in manydifferent ways fromparades to open houses tomedia events. To learnmore about activities topromote this event, tolearn how other agenciesare celebrating, or todownload an How ToGuide visit online."The Future Is Now""The Future Is Now"http://www.apwa.net/About/npww/

Work Zone Safety & MobilityImplementation Guidance Tools

While local public agencies that receiveFederal-aid highway funding need toimplement the policies and proceduresrequired by the Rule, it does not prescribeany specific approach. If a local agencyuses its own policies and procedures, it isrecommended that the State and localagency work together to ensure they donot conflict. To assist agencies withdeveloping their own procedures, FHWAhas developed a number of implementationguidance tools to help agencies implementthe provisions of this Rule – 1)Implementing the Rule on Work ZoneSafety and Mobility is a document thatprovides a general overview of the Rule,as well as guidance, examples, bestpractices, tools, and resources to helpimplement the Rule's provisions - manytypes of funding are available forimplementing elements of the Rule, and alist of funding sources can be found inSection 7.5.2 of this document; 2) WorkZone Impacts Assessment: An Approach toAssess and Manage Work Zone Safety andMobility Impacts of Road Projects is adocument that provides guidance ondeveloping procedures to assess andmanage work zone impacts of roadprojects, as well as examples and practicesof how agencies are currently assessingand managing work zone impacts; 3)Developing and ImplementingTransportation Management Plans forWork Zones is a document that providesinformation about developing andimplementing Transportation ManagementPlans (TMP), including information onhow and where a TMP fits into project-level processes and procedures, a list ofcomponents that can be considered forinclusion in a TMP, descriptions of workzone management strategies, and examplesand practices of how agencies arecurrently using TMPs; and 4) Work ZonePublic Information and OutreachStrategies is a document that provides tips,examples, and practices on designing apublic information and outreach campaignfor work zones and offers a variety ofstrategies that can be used in a campaign.

There is also a CD available, WorkZone Safety and Mobility RuleImplementation Guides and OtherResources (Publication Number: FHWA-HOP-07-116) that contains all four ofthese Rule implementation guides; otherRule-related resources such as checklists,templates, a set of frequently askedquestions; information on the Work ZonePeer-to-Peer Program and other resources.The resources on the CD are intended toaid agencies as they fully implement theRule in the coming years. The CD isavailable at no cost. To request copies ofthis CD, please send an email with thename of the publication you are requesting(CD on Work Zone Safety and MobilityRule Implementation Guides and OtherResources, Publication Number: FHWA-HOP-07-116), the number of copiesneeded, and shipping information [email protected]. Theseguidance tools and other informationalmaterials pertaining to the rule are postedat: http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/resources/final_rule.htm.

The provisions of the Rule apply to allhighway construction projects financed inwhole or in part with Federal-aid highwayfunds. While the Rule uses the term“State”, the Rule applies to all agencies,whether State or local, that receiveFederal-aid highway funds. In thedevelopment of the implementationguidance materials, FHWA uses the term“agency” throughout, and in each of theimplementation guides it is clearly statedthat “agency” refers to State Departmentsof Transportation and local transportation(or public) agencies. All agencies areencouraged to apply the good practicesthat the Rule promotes to all their roadprojects.

The full text of this Rule can be foundat: http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/docs/wz_final_rule.pdf.

Rules, Rules and More RulesRules, Rules and More RulesHow to keep them all straight?

continued from page 3...



The Final Rule on Temporary Traffic Control Devices waspublished in the Federal Register (72 FR 68480) onDecember 5, 2007 with an effective date of December 4,2008. This rule supplements existing regulations thatgovern work zone safety and mobility in highway andstreet work zones to include conditions for the appropriateuse of, and expenditure of funds for, uniformed lawenforcement officers, positive protective measures betweenworkers and motorized traffic, and installation andmaintenance of temporary traffic control devices duringconstruction, utility, and maintenance operations. Thisrulemaking is in response to section 1110 of SAFETEA-LU.

The Temporary Traffic Control Devices Rule is anentirely new regulation in 23 CFR 630 Subpart K thatapplies to all State and local agencies that receive Federal-aid highway funding. Specifically, the provisions of theRule apply to all Federal-aid highway projects, includinghighway construction, maintenance, and utility projectsthat are funded in whole or in part with Federal-aid funds.This Rule supplements the Work Zone Safety & MobilityRule by establishing minimum requirements and providingguidance for specific components of work zone safety.These added considerations are intended to be integratedinto the agency processes, procedures, and/or guidance forthe systematic consideration and management of workzone impacts that have been established in accordance withthe Work Zone Safety & Mobility Rule (section 630.1006).This action has no impact on the deadline to comply withthe Work Zone Safety & Mobility Rule (10/12/07). Thecompliance date established for the Temporary TrafficControl Devices Rule (12/04/08) is only for incorporatingthe new considerations introduced by this Rule.

Key components of the new Temporary Traffic ControlDevices Rule include the following: Policy – Policy andrelated processes, procedures, and guidance establishedunder the WZ Safety & Mobility Rule shall includeconsideration and management of road user and workersafety by addressing: 1) Use of positive protection devicesto prevent intrusions; 2) Exposure control measures toavoid or minimize exposure; 3) Other traffic controlmeasures to minimize crashes; and 4) Safe entry/exit ofwork vehicles onto/from the travel lanes.Positive Protection Devices – use shall be based on an

engineering study. An engineering study may be used todevelop positive protection guidelines for the agency, or todetermine the measures to be applied on an individualproject. Use of positive protection shall be considered inwork zone situations that place workers at increased riskfrom motorized traffic and where positive protectiondevices offer the highest potential for increased safety forworkers and road users. Items 1-5 of Section 630.1108(a)were designed to be examples of conditions that maywarrant the use of positive protection and thus triggerapplication of the agency’s polices related to the use ofpositive protection. The Rule does not specifically address

the use of positive protection devices for separatingopposing traffic. Its focus is primarily on the use ofpositive protection devices between the work space andmotorized traffic, as directed by Section 1110 ofSAFETEA-LU. Such considerations should be included aspart of the engineering study to determine the need forlongitudinal traffic barrier.Exposure Control Measures – should be considered

to avoid or minimize exposure for workers and road users.Other Traffic Control Measures – should be

considered to reduce work zone crashes, and risks andconsequences of intrusions into the work space.Uniformed Law Enforcement – shall develop a

policy addressing the use of uniformed law enforcement onFederal-aid highway projects. If your agency does notcurrently use law enforcement officers on projects, thisrule does not require the use of law enforcement officerson projects. It does require the agency to develop a policyaddressing the use of uniformed law enforcement onFederal-aid highway projects. In developing this policy,the agency should consider situations where the use ofuniformed law enforcement officers could improve thesafety of the road user and workers. Several examples ofconditions are provided in Section 630.1108(d). Lawenforcement officers must be properly trained before theycan be used on projects. Work Vehicles and Equipment – Safe means for work

vehicles and equipment to enter and exit traffic lanes andfor delivery of construction materials to the work spaceshould be addressed at the project level.Payment for Traffic Control Features and

Operations – Appropriate pay item provisions for workzone traffic control features are necessary to address thesafety impacts of a project. Some agencies, however,provide little or no specific payment for work zone safetyfeatures, and in extreme cases, provide only minimalinformation as to what features are required. Payment fortraffic control features and operations shall not beincidental to the contract, or included in payment for otheritems of work not related to traffic control and safety.Separate pay items shall be provided for major categoriesof traffic control devices, safety features, and work zonesafety activities.Quality Guidelines – shall be implemented to help

maintain the quality and adequacy of the temporary trafficcontrol devices for the duration of the project.

The full text of this Rule can be found at:http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/resources/policy.htm.Additional guidance is being developed under the umbrellaof the Work Zone Safety Grants. Refer back to thatregulation and policy website for future updates.

Temporary Traffic Control Devices RuleTemporary Traffic Control Devices Rule


The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) hasupdated the rule pertaining to the use of high visibilitypersonal protective equipment for workers who areworking within the rights-of-way of Federal-aid roadways.This new rule will go into effect on November 24, 2008.This new rule applies to all State and local agencies thatreceive Federal-aid highway funding. Is your agencyready?

The new rule states “All workers within the right-of-way of a Federal-aid highway who are exposed either totraffic (vehicles using the highway for purposes of travel)or to construction equipment within the work area shallwear high-visibility safety apparel”. What does that mean,though? Most workers currently wear safety vests - so theyare following the rule?

"Workers" is defined as people on foot whose dutiesplace them within the right-of-way of a Federal-aidhighway, such as: road construction, maintenance crews,survey crews, utility crews, responders, and lawenforcement personnel when directing traffic, investigatingcrashes, and handling lane closures, obstructed roadways,and disasters in the right-of-way.

The rule goes beyond just requiring that workers wearhigh-visibility apparel. Workers must be wearing the rightclass of clothing. There are three levels of conspicuity.These are Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. These levels startat the minimum level of visibility and move to the highestneed for visibility at Class 3. The Manual on UniformTraffic Control Devices (MUTCD) Section 6E.02 High-Visibility Safety Apparel states that workers shall wear aminimum of a Class 2 apparel that meets the AmericanNational Standard Institute 107-1999 during work. Thissection recommends that workers wear Class 3 at night.The MUTCD states that the outer or background color ofthe material “shall be either fluorescent orange-red orfluorescent yellow-green as defined in the standard. Theretroreflective material shall be either orange, yellow,white, silver, yellow-green, or a fluorescent version ofthese colors, and shall be visible at a minimum distance of300 m (1,000 ft).” The person must be able to be easilyidentified as a person.

Class 1 apparel is suited for workers who are exposedto slow moving vehicles traveling at speeds of less than 25miles per hour. People who should wear these vests canpay full attention to the traffic around them; they are notdistracted by the job they are performing. Workers whowould qualify for Class 1 apparel are people directing

traffic in parking lots at events, supermarket workersgathering shopping carts, and people working in awarehouse who encounter equipment traffic there.

The next level of conspicuity is Class 2. This is theminimum standard for roadway workers according to theMUTCD. These workers need a higher level of visibilitybecause their attention is partially divided from the traffic,there are poor weather conditions, or the amount ofequipment in the background makes it hard for motorists tospot them as workers. Workers who are encounteringtraffic over 25 miles per hour should wear Class II apparel.Some types of jobs that would qualify for this level ofapparel are airport runway personnel, accidentinvestigators, and utility workers.

Class 3 is the highest level of visibility. Workersencountering traffic exceeding 50 miles per hour shouldwear this class. Other qualifications are the need to havethe worker visible throughout all motions, all attentionpaid to job at hand and not to traffic, and the worker mustlook like a person and not an inanimate object. Roadcrews, emergency responders, and police officers areexamples of workers who would qualify for this type ofapparel.

Wherever you purchase your personal protectiveequipment, it is important to ensure that the materialsreally are the class that the company says they are. Thereare third party tests that companies can have done to provethat their materials are up to par. Companies should havethese records on file and can provide them upon request.Be wary of companies that offer products way below thecost of all other companies. These companies may not beproviding clothing at the class level they are stating.

The full text of this Rule can be found athttp://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/resources/policy.htm.

Sources:The Rule on Work Zone Safety and Mobility Website,p://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/docs/wz_final_rule.pdf.Federal Register, Vol. 71, No. 226, November 24, 2006,http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/res-notices.htm MUTCD, http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.Safety and Supply Co., www.safetyandsupply.com

Special thanks to Jason Leniski, Managing Partner of Vinatronics HighVisibility Apparel for his "Vinatronics Technical Briefs" on the highvisibility requirements and apparel photos.

Final Rule on Worker VisibilityFinal Rule on Worker Visibility

CLASS ICLASS I CLASS IICLASS II CLASS IIICLASS III


COLORADO LTAPCOLORADO LTAPRETRO-RETRO-

REFLECTOMETERREFLECTOMETERLOAN PROGRAMLOAN PROGRAM

FHWA has releasedregulations regardingminimum levels of signretroreflectivity.Agencies will now beresponsible formaintaining their signsto a minimum level ofservice. A retro-reflectometer can play akey role to ensurequality and accuracywhen implementing aneffective signmanagement program.To help local agencieswho are unable to affordor don’t warrant enoughneed to purchase theirown meter, ColoradoLTAP has purchased aretroreflectometer andimplemented a loanprogram.

Colorado LTAP haspurchased a signsheeting DELTARetroSign® GR3Retroreflectometer withGPS capability. The 9-foot extension pole kit isalso included.

For more information orto sign up, please callColorado LTAP at 303-735-3530.

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control DevicesManual on Uniform Traffic Control DevicesOut for Review

n January 2, 2008 the FederalHighway Administration has

published in the Federal Register a noticeof proposed amendments to the Manual onUniform Traffic Control Devices. This isthe next version after the 2003 MUTCD.The Federal Highway Administration willreceive written comments on the proposednew MUTCD until July 31, 2008.

You can see the proposed revisedMUTCD by going to FHWA’s MUTCDwebsite and download an electronicversion to review. It is accessible athttp://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.

In the box labeled “What’sNew” the proposedamendments are available byclicking on the “ProposedMUTCD text, figures, andtables” link. You can view aclear text set of just the newversion, and a text changed setthat shows the deletions in redwith a strike thru, and green text that is thenew wording. The changed set is themost useful to see what the changes are tothe current 2003 version of the MUTCD.The proposed MUTCD text, figures, andtables are separate and also available forpublic review and comment. A link toslide presentations illustrating theproposed amendments are available foreasier understanding.

The National Committee on UniformTraffic Control Devices and its TechnicalCommittees are currently doing a reviewof the entire proposed new MUTCD.Several of the proposed changes havebeen recommended by the NationalCommittee over the last eight years, someof their recom-mendations have not been

included in theproposedMUTCD, andsome changesare totally new.All users ofthe MUTCDneed to review theproposed changes.

One of the major changes in theproposed MUTCD increases the area overwhich the MUTCD is to be enforced.That one change will require the MUTCD

to be used on public streetsand highways as well asrequire compliance by allprivate property that is open tothe public, such as apartmentcomplexes, shopping malls,store parking lots, and anyother facilities open to thepublic. It would not beenforced on gated areas -

apartments, companies, and other areasnot open to the public without restrictions.

The National Committee on UniformTraffic Control Devices is soliciting anyand all comments the public would like toprovide. You may submit commentsonline through the Federal eRulemakingportal at: www.regulations.gov. Allcomments should include the FHWADocket No. FHWA–2007–28977. Or mail to:

Hari KallaMUTCD Team Leader

Office of Transportation OperationsFederal Highway Administration

Mail Stop: E84-4021200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.

Washington, DC 20590

OBy Gene Putman, P.E., P.T.O.E, City of ThorntonMember National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

Visit Colorado LTAP online todayfor online training, class registration,

free lending library, and more.

http: / / l tap.colorado.edu

FHWA will receive writtencomments on the

proposedamendments to theMUTCD until July 31, 2008.


RECENT COLORADORECENT COLORADOROADS SCHOLARROADS SCHOLARGRADUATESGRADUATES

Bob Sickler - City ofThornton

Harold Stromberger - Cityof Windsor

Bob Reeder - MontroseCounty

Art Romero - ArapahoeCounty

Jeff McWilliams -Arapahoe County

David Rightsell - ArapahoeCounty

Joe Montoya - OteroCounty

RECENT COLORADORECENT COLORADOSUPERVISORYSUPERVISORY

SKILLS GRADUATESSKILLS GRADUATES

Steve Podoll - City ofColorado Springs

Carl Shilling - El PasoCounty

Greg Chavez - City ofCommerce City

Mark DeMaio - ArapahoeCounty

Chad Mills -City of Golden

Scott Ota -City of Golden

Upcoming EventsUpcoming Events

NOTE: Please contact the ColoradoLTAP office for an updated schedule, orcheck online at http://ltap.colorado.edu.

Road Scholar Core ClassesRoad Scholar Core Classes

Safety on the JobOctober 2008

DrainageNovember 2008

Road Scholar ElectivesRoad Scholar Electives

Chip Seal ApplicationsMarch 31, 2008 - GoldenApril 1, 2008 - PuebloApril 3, 2008 - Grand Junction

Erosion Control SupervisorCertificationApril 3, 2008 - PuebloApril 7, 2008 - Fort Collins

Basics of a Good Gravel RoadApril 21, 2008 - DurangoApril 24, 2008 - Glenwood SpringsApril 29, 2008 - Fort MorganMay 1, 2008 - Pueblo

Motor Grader Training, HaydenApril 28, 2008 - ClassroomApril 29-30, 2008 - 1st In-fieldMay 1-2, 2008 - 2nd In-field

Chainsaw Safety ApplicationsJuly 17, 2008 - Frisco

Supervisory Skills ClassesSupervisory Skills Classes

ETHICS for New SupervisorsApril 28, 2008 - Grand Junction

Written CommunicationsApril 29, 2008 - Grand Junction

WorkshopsWorkshops

Flagger CertificationApril 7, 2008 - LamarApril 8, 2008 - TrinidadApril 9, 2008 - DurangoApril 10, 2008 - Montrose

APWA/CARMA Street ConferenceApril 16-18, 2008Doubletree Hotel, Grand JunctionFor registration and information, visithttp://ltap.colorado.edu/

APWA Management ConferenceMay 1-2, 2008Belmar Conference Center, LakewoodFor information visit: http://colorado.apwa.net/events.asp?mode=detail&ID=4253

2008 National LTAP ConferenceJuly 14-17, 2008Beaver Run Resort, BreckenridgeFor registration and information, visithttp://ltap.colorado.edu/

Conferences

Upcoming TrainingRemember!Remember!

You can register onlineonline at:

http://ltap.colorado.edu

Web Based TrainingWeb Based Training Opportunit iesOpportunit ies

April 3 Work Zones – Safety FirstApril 17 Innovative FundingMay 15 Developing Tomorrow’s PW LeadersMay 29 Green Buildings – LEED the WayJune 12 Developing a Successful Fleet

Replacement ProgramJune 26 Municipal Stormwater Self-Audit

For more information visit: http://apwa.net/Events/

Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDBoulder, COPermit No. 257

Colorado LTAP

University of Colorado at Boulder3100 Marine St, A-213UCB 561Boulder, CO 80309-0561

FF RR EE EE MM AA TT EE RR II AA LL SSFF RR EE EE MM AA TT EE RR II AA LL SSF5 CI Cave In! Trenching & Shoring SafetyWorking in trenches can be dangerous! When excavation sites are unsafe, workers risk injury ordeath. Protect yourself with this handbook by learning more about trench soil, trench protectivesystems, atmospheric hazards and safety practices for excavation work.

F5 LFL Lockout For Life!You probably know a lot about lockout and tagout of energy sources. But do you know the wholestory? This handbook goes beyond teaching you how to put a personal lock on an energy sourceor valve handle. You'll be taken beyond warning tags. In fact, you'll learn some things you mightfind disturbing. This handbook recounts a series of true stories- each a close call or a loss of life.Read them carefully to learn how these accidents could be avoided.

F5 LT Lockout Tagout: An Open and Shut CaseWhen it comes to your safety, lockout/tagout is no big mystery. This handbook includes nine basicsteps that keep you safe in your work. In fact, it's so simple, it's an open and shut case. OSHAcreated the lockout/tagout standard to protect you from the unexpected start-up of machines orrelease of stored energy during service or maintenance. To protect yourself from injury, you needto know: What lockout/tagout is; When to perform lockout/tagout; OSHA's six steps for controllingsources of hazardous energy; and OSHA's three steps for safely restoring energy once your workis done. It also explains the specific steps you must follow.

F50 DDACC Defensive Driving: A Crash CourseEach year, thousands of people are injured or die in job-related motor vehicle accidents. In fact,motor vehicle accidents are the number-one cause of employee injuries and deaths. Most of theseaccidents could have been avoided simply by driving defensively. This handbook will take you on acrash course in defensive driving by explaining how to apply these techniques whenever you'rebehind the wheel-even when you are not on the job.

F50 SWD Safe Winter DrivingYou take a risk every time you get behind the wheel. When you drive in the winter, your risk is tentimes greater. So what can you do when your livelihood depends on driving on the road in thewinter? What you can do is remember one final fact: You can minimize your risk by recognizingwinter hazards and knowing how to prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter. This handbookprovides a review of safe winter driving techniques that could save your life.

The following is a list ofFREE materials

available to Colorado localgovernment agencies in the

transportation field.Quantities are limited andavailable on a first-come,

first-serve basis.

Contact the Colorado LTAPoffice to put in a request for

these free publications.

**Check out our website for additional free materials

not listed here.

http://ltap.colorado.edu

colorado ltapltap.colorado.edu/newsletter/newsletter_spring08.pdf · 2a.08, and 2a.22. these...

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