Pete Coughlan, P.E. Pete Coughlan, P.E. For New England OSHA Training Institute Education Center at For New England OSHA Training Institute Education Center at Keene State College, March 2006.Keene State College, March 2006.

Work Zone Traffic Control

What is aWhat is a “Temporary Traffic “Temporary Traffic

Control Zone”Control Zone”“…an area of a highway where road user

conditions are changed because of a work zone or incident by the use of temporary traffic control devices, flaggers, uniformed law enforcement

officers, or other authorized personnel.” Examples: construction, maintenance, or utility Examples: construction, maintenance, or utility

work activities, vehicle crash, emergency work activities, vehicle crash, emergency response, etcresponse, etc

Why are work Why are work zones such a zones such a

“big deal”“big deal”

Part of FHWA Strategic PlanPart of FHWA Strategic Plan

One of FHWA’s “vital few” goalsOne of FHWA’s “vital few” goals

National Work Zone Safety Clearinghouse

Fatalities & crashes

increasing

Constructio

n spending is increasingOSHA regs

Liability & lawsuits

WZ stats

National StatisticsNational StatisticsNational Work Zone Crash Fatalities

1,068

1,181

1,028989

1,026

872

772

600700800900

1,0001,1001,2001,300

1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Year

Nu

mb

er o

f F

atal

itie

s

Source: National Work Zone Clearinghouse: http://wzsafety.tamu.edu

NH StatisticsNH StatisticsWork Zone CrashesYear # Crashes # Injuries # Fatalities

1998

1999

2000

2001

2

0

1

0

2002

2003 1

2004 3

Traffic Control is Traffic Control is important important because:because:

people diepeople die people are injuredpeople are injured Money is lostMoney is lost You and your company can be You and your company can be

suedsued

Why Why crashes??????crashes??????

Worksites create potential hazards Worksites create potential hazards because they:because they: Confront motorists with unknown Confront motorists with unknown

conditionsconditions Create hazardsCreate hazards Divert attention from drivingDivert attention from driving Expose workersExpose workers

GoalsGoalsSome information on:Some information on: your liabilityyour liabilitywhat is the MUTCDwhat is the MUTCD proper devicesproper devices““parts” of a work zoneparts” of a work zoneflagger do’s & don’tsflagger do’s & don’ts

Class ExampleClass ExampleTwo lane road – 20 ft pavementTwo lane road – 20 ft pavement

Little to no usable shoulderLittle to no usable shoulder

35 mph35 mph

Several cars/minute each Several cars/minute each directiondirection

Great sight distance each wayGreat sight distance each way

Work area active for 4 hrsWork area active for 4 hrs

Why is worker Why is worker training so training so

critical?critical?What’s wrong with

this picture?

Work Zone Work Zone Traffic ControlTraffic Control

Tort LiabilityTort Liability

Tort LiabilityTort LiabilityYour legal exposure to Your legal exposure to being sued and being being sued and being brought into court to brought into court to

recover recover MONEY MONEY for acts of for acts of negligence negligence by by

individuals, gov’t individuals, gov’t agencies, corporations, agencies, corporations,

etc.etc.

““Have Have YOU YOU been injured been injured

in an in an accident accident

lately……?”lately……?”

Sound Sound familiarfamiliar

??

Recent cases haveRecent cases haveinvolved:involved:*too hot coffee*too hot coffee*slippery broccoli*slippery broccoli*outhouse tipping*outhouse tipping*lightning on golf course*lightning on golf course*people suing God*people suing God*people suing themselves*people suing themselves*“loss” of companionship, sex *“loss” of companionship, sex *traffic accidents*traffic accidents*lots of work zones*lots of work zones*whatever !!*whatever !!

JOINT JOINT NEGLIGENCENEGLIGENCE usually found usually found

between all parties between all parties

(contractor, highway (contractor, highway department, utility, etc)department, utility, etc)

It means thatIt means that

your insurance companyyour insurance company handles handles MANYMANY claims and claims and

relies relies HEAVILY HEAVILY on field on field personnel for detailspersonnel for details………many weeks or ………many weeks or

months after the incidentmonths after the incident

Tips to fight claimsTips to fight claimstake (good) photos ASAP of entire WZ

make detailed diary notes

get names of ALL flaggers, drivers, witnesses, plate #’s…..

get statements

Smallest detail could save BIG $$$Smallest detail could save BIG $$$$$$$

Heavy reliance Heavy reliance on the concept of on the concept of

“positive “positive guidance”guidance”

was traffic control installed was traffic control installed to provide clear direction to provide clear direction

to ALL drivers? to ALL drivers?

M.U.T.C.D.M.U.T.C.D.Manual on Uniform Manual on Uniform

Traffic Control DevicesTraffic Control Devices

THE standardTHE standard

first edition in 1927first edition in 1927

Millenium Edition published in late 2000Millenium Edition published in late 2000

2003 Edition published Nov. 20032003 Edition published Nov. 2003

MUTCDMUTCDMillenium EditionMillenium EditionDecember, 2000December, 2000

(replaces the 1993 Edition w/ (replaces the 1993 Edition w/ revisions)revisions)

Standards = Standards = “shall”“shall”

Guidance = Guidance = “should”“should”

Options = “may”Options = “may”

M.U.T.C.D.M.U.T.C.D.2003 Edition provides much more 2003 Edition provides much more

detail on:detail on:““accessibility” (ADA) in all work accessibility” (ADA) in all work zoneszones

crashworthiness of all devicescrashworthiness of all devices

new safety apparel standardsnew safety apparel standards

control of traffic through “incident” control of traffic through “incident” areasareas (i.e. police, fire, spills, disasters, etc)(i.e. police, fire, spills, disasters, etc)

MUTCDMUTCD“2003 Edition”“2003 Edition”

December, 2003December, 2003(replaces the Millenium Edition of (replaces the Millenium Edition of

2000)2000)

Many changes & new Many changes & new additionsadditions

MUTCDMUTCD“2003 Edition”“2003 Edition”

Available at: Available at: http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/

Hard copies are available at: American Traffic Safety Services Association American Traffic Safety Services Association

(ATSSA)(ATSSA)www.atssa.com 800-272-8772

Worker Worker ConsiderationsConsiderations

** key elements **** key elements **TrainingTraining – all workers should be trained – all workers should be trainedWorker ClothingWorker Clothing – all workers should – all workers should wear hi-vis. safety apparel meeting ANSI wear hi-vis. safety apparel meeting ANSI 107-1999 107-1999 Temp. traffic barriersTemp. traffic barriers – depends on type – depends on type and length of work, traffic volume & speed, and length of work, traffic volume & speed, time of day, type of road……time of day, type of road……Speed reductionSpeed reduction – flaggers, lane – flaggers, lane restrictions, police, etc. should be restrictions, police, etc. should be consideredconsidered

M.U.T.C.D.M.U.T.C.D.Section 1A.02Section 1A.02

““This Manual …is for all streets and This Manual …is for all streets and highways open to public travel highways open to public travel

regardless of type or classregardless of type or class or the or the public agency having jurisdiction.”public agency having jurisdiction.”

MUTCDMUTCDpg 1A.07pg 1A.07

Federal law states that Federal law states that “traffic control devices on all “traffic control devices on all streets and highways open to streets and highways open to

public travel shall be in public travel shall be in substantial conformance with substantial conformance with standards issued or endorsed standards issued or endorsed

by FHWA.”by FHWA.”

M.U.T.C.D.M.U.T.C.D.Section 1A.08Section 1A.08

““when the public agency…having when the public agency…having jurisdiction over a street has granted jurisdiction over a street has granted

proper authority, others such as proper authority, others such as contractors and public utilitiescontractors and public utilities shall shall

be permitted to install temporary be permitted to install temporary traffic control devices in temporary traffic control devices in temporary

traffic control zones…and those traffic control zones…and those devices shall conform with…this devices shall conform with…this

ManualManual

Sign ColorsSign ColorsYellow - General WarningYellow - General Warning

Red - Prohibition (regulatory)Red - Prohibition (regulatory)

Blue - Motorist Services GuidanceBlue - Motorist Services Guidance

Green - DirectionGreen - Direction

Brown - Recreational/Cultural InterestBrown - Recreational/Cultural Interest

Orange - Construction/MaintenanceOrange - Construction/Maintenance

White - RegulatoryWhite - Regulatory

FYG – Pedestrian/bike/school WarningFYG – Pedestrian/bike/school Warning

Fundamentals of Fundamentals of Traffic ControlTraffic Control

The ABCs:The ABCs: Provide advance warningProvide advance warning Be visible and alertBe visible and alert Be in controlBe in control

Apply them before work Apply them before work begins!!begins!!

AAdvance Warningdvance Warningis the Key!is the Key!

To let motorists and To let motorists and pedestrians know pedestrians know you are working near you are working near the roadwaythe roadway

To let them know To let them know that something that something unusual is going onunusual is going on

Communication!Communication!

BBe Visible and e Visible and AlertAlert

Wear bright garmentsWear bright garments Expect the unexpectedExpect the unexpected

CControl ontrol Procedures are Procedures are

Critical!Critical! Choose the proper traffic control Choose the proper traffic control techniquestechniques

Use standard traffic control Use standard traffic control proceduresprocedures• Standard devicesStandard devices• Standard set-upsStandard set-ups

Adjust for field conditionsAdjust for field conditions

Why areWhy areStandards Standards Important?Important?

Uniformity Through Uniformity Through Standardization Standardization

Promotes:Promotes: Recognition and Recognition and

understandingunderstanding Consistent interpretationConsistent interpretation More rapid driver More rapid driver

responseresponse Motorists' respectMotorists' respect

How do work zones and How do work zones and OSHA relate??OSHA relate??

In NH, OSHA regs are enforced In NH, OSHA regs are enforced by Federal OSHA – by Federal OSHA – their jurisdiction is their jurisdiction is private private agencies (contractors, agencies (contractors, private utilities, etc.)private utilities, etc.)

Federal OSHAFederal OSHA cites violations cites violations depending on seriousness:depending on seriousness:

penalty ranges= $1,500 to penalty ranges= $1,500 to $70,000 $70,000 (with some possible reductions due (with some possible reductions due to size of company, good faith efforts, and past to size of company, good faith efforts, and past history)history)

SeriousSerious violation = $1,500 to violation = $1,500 to $5,000$5,000WillfulWillful violation = up to $70,000 violation = up to $70,000

Federal OSHA Federal OSHA RecommendationsRecommendations

1) 1) Become aware of the rules and Become aware of the rules and thethe MUTCD work zone standards,MUTCD work zone standards,2)2) “I didn’t know about them”“I didn’t know about them” is is NOTNOT an excuse anymore! an excuse anymore!3)3) We are very serious about work We are very serious about work

zones now and will enforce zones now and will enforce thethe rulesrules

OSHA Subpart OSHA Subpart GG

Fed’l Register– 9/12/02Fed’l Register– 9/12/02As of 12/11/2002, this reg. adopts the As of 12/11/2002, this reg. adopts the Millenium edition of the MUTCDMillenium edition of the MUTCDMany updates related to:Many updates related to:

Signaling by flaggers, and the use of Signaling by flaggers, and the use of flaggers,flaggers, including warning garments,including warning garments,All traffic signs or devicesAll traffic signs or devicesBarricadesBarricadesCrashworthinessCrashworthiness

1926.21(b)(2) Safety 1926.21(b)(2) Safety TrainingTraining

““The employer shall instruct The employer shall instruct each employee in the each employee in the recognition and avoidance of recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his regulations applicable to his work environment to control or work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury.”exposure to illness or injury.”MUTCD MUTCD Millen.ReferenceMillen.ReferenceSection 6D.02 Worker ConsiderationsSection 6D.02 Worker Considerations

Section 6E.01 Qualifications for Flaggers. Section 6E.01 Qualifications for Flaggers.

1926.28(a) Personal 1926.28(a) Personal Protective EquipmentProtective Equipment

The employer is responsible for requiring The employer is responsible for requiring the wearing of appropriate personal the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment in all operations protective equipment in all operations where there is an exposure to hazardous where there is an exposure to hazardous conditions or where this part indicates conditions or where this part indicates the need for using such equipment to the need for using such equipment to reduce the hazards to the employees.reduce the hazards to the employees.

MUTCD Millen.ReferenceMUTCD Millen.ReferenceSection 6D.02 Worker ConsiderationsSection 6D.02 Worker ConsiderationsSection 6E.02 High-Visibility ClothingSection 6E.02 High-Visibility Clothing

1926.200(a) 1926.200(a) Accident prevention Accident prevention

signssigns General. Signs and symbols…. shall be General. Signs and symbols…. shall be

visible at all times when work is visible at all times when work is being performed, and shall be being performed, and shall be removed or removed or covered promptlycovered promptly when the hazards no longer exist.when the hazards no longer exist.MUTCD Millen. MUTCD Millen.

Reference Reference Section 1A.04 Placement and Operation of Section 1A.04 Placement and Operation of Traffic Control Devices.Traffic Control Devices.

Section 1A.08 Authority for Placement of Traffic Section 1A.08 Authority for Placement of Traffic Control Devices Control Devices

Section 6F.29 Flagger Sign (W20-7, W20-7a) Section 6F.29 Flagger Sign (W20-7, W20-7a)

1926.200(g)(1) Traffic 1926.200(g)(1) Traffic SignsSigns

Construction areas shall be posted with Construction areas shall be posted with legiblelegible traffic signs at points of hazard. traffic signs at points of hazard.

MUTCD Millen. MUTCD Millen. ReferenceReference

Section 1A.04 Placement and Operation of Section 1A.04 Placement and Operation of Traffic Control DevicesTraffic Control Devices

Section 1A.08 Authority for Placement of Section 1A.08 Authority for Placement of Traffic Control Devices Traffic Control Devices

Section 6F.04 Sign Maintenance Section 6F.04 Sign Maintenance

1926.200(g)(2)Traffic 1926.200(g)(2)Traffic SignsSigns

AlAll traffic control signs or devices used l traffic control signs or devices used for protection of construction workers for protection of construction workers shall conform to Part VI of the Manual shall conform to Part VI of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Millennium Edition, December 2000, Millennium Edition, December 2000, FHWA……. FHWA…….

MUTCD Millen. MUTCD Millen. ReferenceReference

MUTCD Millen. ReferenceMUTCD Millen. Reference Section 1A.03 Design of Traffic Control Section 1A.03 Design of Traffic Control

DevicesDevices Section 1A.07 Responsibility for Traffic Section 1A.07 Responsibility for Traffic

Control Devices Control Devices Section 1A.08 Authority for Placement of Section 1A.08 Authority for Placement of

Traffic Control Devices Traffic Control Devices Section 1A.10 Interpretations, Section 1A.10 Interpretations,

Experimentations, and Changes. Experimentations, and Changes. Section 1A.12 Color Code Section 1A.12 Color Code Section 6F.01 Types of Devices Section 6F.01 Types of Devices Section 6F.03 Sign Placement Section 6F.03 Sign Placement

1926.201(a) Flaggers1926.201(a) FlaggersSignaling by flaggers and the use of flaggers, Signaling by flaggers and the use of flaggers,

including warning garments worn by flaggers including warning garments worn by flaggers shall conform to Part VI of the Manual on shall conform to Part VI of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Millennium Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Millennium Edition, December 2000, FHWA………...Edition, December 2000, FHWA………...

MUTCD 2000 MUTCD 2000 Reference Reference

Section 6E.01 Qualifications for FlaggersSection 6E.01 Qualifications for Flaggers

Section 6E.02 High-Visibility Clothing Section 6E.02 High-Visibility Clothing

Section 6E.03 Hand-Signaling Devices Section 6E.03 Hand-Signaling Devices

Section 6E.04 Flagger Procedures Section 6E.04 Flagger Procedures

Section 6E.05 Flagger Stations.. Section 6E.05 Flagger Stations..

Traffic Control Traffic Control DevicesDevices

SignsSignsChannelization DevicesChannelization DevicesLighting DevicesLighting DevicesPavement MarkingsPavement Markings

Traffic Control Traffic Control DevicesDevices

Should meet 5 basic Should meet 5 basic requirements:requirements:1)Fulfill a need

2)Command attention

3)Convey a clear, simple meaning

4)Command respect from road users, and

5)Give adequate time for response

•Section 6F.01Section 6F.01The needs and control of all road The needs and control of all road users (motorists, bicyclists, and users (motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians,pedestrians,……including persons with disabilities) including persons with disabilities) through a work zone shall be an through a work zone shall be an essential part of highway, essential part of highway, construction, utility work, construction, utility work, maintenance operations, and the maintenance operations, and the management of traffic incidents”management of traffic incidents”

Traffic Control Traffic Control DevicesDevices

Warning SignsWarning Signs

•Road Work AheadRoad Work Ahead•Flagger SymbolFlagger Symbol•Be Prepared to Be Prepared to StopStop•One Lane Road One Lane Road AheadAhead•Advisory Speed Advisory Speed plateplate

Warning SignsWarning Signs•Typically diamond shapedTypically diamond shaped•Typically black lettering on Typically black lettering on orangeorange

(for “incidents”, fluor. pink is OK)(for “incidents”, fluor. pink is OK)•Should be placed in advance of hazardShould be placed in advance of hazard•May be rigid or flexible materialMay be rigid or flexible material•Size – minimumsSize – minimums

Generally Generally 36” by 36”36” by 36”

Low speed Low speed 30” by 30”30” by 30” (rural, <400ADT & (rural, <400ADT &

35mph)35mph)

High speed shall be 48” by 48”High speed shall be 48” by 48”(minimum 5” letters)(minimum 5” letters)

Warning SignsWarning SignsSection 6F.03Section 6F.03Signs mounted on barricades or Signs mounted on barricades or barricade/sign combinations shall be barricade/sign combinations shall be crashworthycrashworthy

Sign supports shall be crashworthySign supports shall be crashworthy

Sign MountingSign Mounting(temporary)(temporary)

•Sign supports must be crashworthy

•Bottom of sign at least 1 foot off the ground

•Orange flags or flashing lights shall not block the sign face

•Must be retroreflective if used at night

•Should be located on the right side

Sign MountingSign Mounting(post mounted)(post mounted)

•Sign supports must be crashworthy

•Bottom of sign at least 5 feet off the ground in rural areas, and 7 feet in

urban or residential areas

•Orange flags or flashing lights shall not block the sign face

•Must be retroreflective if used at night

•Should be located on the right side

Reflective Retroreflective

RetroreflectivityRetroreflectivity Retro = “return”Retro = “return” Light reflects back to the sourceLight reflects back to the source

Principle ofPrinciple of Retroreflection Retroreflection

Light beam from headlamp

Retroreflected light to driver

Retroreflectivesheeting

What is What is “crashworthy”?“crashworthy”?

in simple terms……..in simple terms……..

they are not wicked heavy or sharp they are not wicked heavy or sharp things which can do some serious things which can do some serious damage to persons or cars when hit…. damage to persons or cars when hit….

In other words, they are not potentially In other words, they are not potentially dangerous obstacles which could pose dangerous obstacles which could pose great danger as flying projectiles. great danger as flying projectiles.

What is What is “crashworthy”?“crashworthy”?Section 1A.13– definitionsSection 1A.13– definitions

““a characteristic of a roadside a characteristic of a roadside appurtenance that has been successfully appurtenance that has been successfully crash tested in accordance with a national crash tested in accordance with a national standard such as the NCHRP Report 350,standard such as the NCHRP Report 350,…” …” http://safety.fhwa.dot/programs/roadside_hardware.htmhttp://safety.fhwa.dot/programs/roadside_hardware.htm

This site identifies all such hardware and This site identifies all such hardware and includes copies of FHWA acceptance includes copies of FHWA acceptance letters for each of themletters for each of them

Suggested Advance Suggested Advance Warning Sign Warning Sign

SpacingSpacingAdvanced Warning – Sign Spacing

Distance between signsA B C

100 100100

350 350 350

500 500 500

1,000 1,500 2,640

Urban (high speed)

Urban (low speed)

Rural

Expressway/freeway

Road Type

Traffic Control Traffic Control DevicesDevices

SignsSignsChannelization DevicesChannelization DevicesLighting DevicesLighting DevicesPavement MarkingsPavement Markings

Channelization Channelization DevicesDevices•Warn and alert road users of work Warn and alert road users of work

conditions in conditions in oror near the roadway near the roadway•““Protect”Protect” workers in the work workers in the work zonezone•Guide drivers and pedestrians Guide drivers and pedestrians safelysafely•Should provide a Should provide a smooth, smooth, gradual,andgradual,and obvious transition obvious transition•Should yield or break awayShould yield or break away•Any weight must be at Any weight must be at BASEBASE of of devicedevice

Channelization Channelization DevicesDevices

•Traffic ConesTraffic Cones•Tubular Tubular markersmarkers•Vertical PanelsVertical Panels•DrumsDrums•BarricadesBarricades•BarriersBarriers

Traffic ConesTraffic ConesMinimum heights:Minimum heights:•18”18” – daytime and low speed roads – daytime and low speed roads•28”28” – high speed roads, all freeways, – high speed roads, all freeways, andand all nighttime uses all nighttime uses

Nighttime:Nighttime:

28” plus 2 retroreflectorized 28” plus 2 retroreflectorized whitewhite bands bands

One One 6”6” band about 2” above one band about 2” above one 4”4” bandband

DrumsDrums•Give the appearance of being Give the appearance of being formidableformidable objects/ command objects/ command respect of driversrespect of drivers•Must be lightweight, deformableMust be lightweight, deformable•Minimum Minimum 36” high36” high and 18” wide and 18” wide•Metal drums shall not be usedMetal drums shall not be used•Shall have closed topsShall have closed tops•Orange & white retroreflectorized Orange & white retroreflectorized horizontal stripes horizontal stripes 4” to 6” wide4” to 6” wide•Minimum of 2 stripes with top being Minimum of 2 stripes with top being orangeorange•Weighting – not hazardous, at bottomWeighting – not hazardous, at bottom

BarricadesBarricades3 types3 types

Type IType I

Type IIType II

Type IIIType III

Type is determined by number of Type is determined by number of railsrails

BarricadesBarricades•Should be used for traffic separation Should be used for traffic separation oror shoulder dropoff shoulder dropoff•Minimum 24” wideMinimum 24” wide Be Be crashworthycrashworthy•Each rail must be 8” to 12” wideEach rail must be 8” to 12” wide•Orange & white retroreflectorized, Orange & white retroreflectorized, diagonaldiagonal stripes stripes•Stripes MUST slope Stripes MUST slope downward at 45° downward at 45° in in direction traffic is to passdirection traffic is to pass•Weight shall not be placed on top of Weight shall not be placed on top of anyany striped rail – also no striped rail – also no rocks,concrete...rocks,concrete...

Barricade – Type IBarricade – Type I•Channelization or marking of hazards Channelization or marking of hazards wherewhere traffic movement is traffic movement is maintainedmaintained•One railOne rail•Usually 6 to 8’ in length (2’ minimum)Usually 6 to 8’ in length (2’ minimum)•Can be used singly or in seriesCan be used singly or in series•Conventional roads, urban streets, Conventional roads, urban streets, andand arterials arterials

Barricade – Type IIBarricade – Type II•Channelization or marking of hazards Channelization or marking of hazards •Two railsTwo rails•Uses similar to Type IUses similar to Type I•Have more reflective area than Type IHave more reflective area than Type I•Typically for higher speed roadsTypically for higher speed roads

Traffic Control Traffic Control DevicesDevices

The name and telephone number of The name and telephone number of the agency, contractor, or supplier the agency, contractor, or supplier may be shown on the may be shown on the nonreflective nonreflective surfacesurface of all types of channelizing of all types of channelizing

devices. devices. The letter and numbers shall be The letter and numbers shall be

nonreflective and nonreflective and not over 2 inches not over 2 inches highhigh

Traffic Control Traffic Control DevicesDevices

SignsSignsChannelization DevicesChannelization DevicesLighting DevicesLighting DevicesPavement MarkingsPavement Markings

Lighting DevicesLighting Devices

Warning lightsWarning lightsFlashing warning beacons Flashing warning beacons FloodlightsFloodlightsVehicle “emergencies”Vehicle “emergencies”Changeable message signsChangeable message signs

Vehicle Vehicle “emergencies”“emergencies”““emergencies” shall NOT be usedemergencies” shall NOT be used

instead of rotating or strobe instead of rotating or strobe lightslights

rather…… they need to rather…… they need to supplement supplement rotating or strobe lightsrotating or strobe lights

Should be used by Should be used by ALLALL work vehicles work vehicles in in oror near the work zone near the work zone

Arrow PanelsArrow PanelsShall be finished in non-reflective Shall be finished in non-reflective blackblackShall be mounted on a vehicle, trailer,or Shall be mounted on a vehicle, trailer,or otherother suitable support suitable supportType A, B, and C’s shall have solid Type A, B, and C’s shall have solid rectangular rectangular appearanceappearancePanel Type Min. Size Min. # of elements

A 48 x 24 12

B 60 x 30 13

C 96 x 48 15

None Arrow length = 48”, head width= 24” 12

Arrow PanelsArrow PanelsArrows shall Arrows shall notnot be used on a be used on a two-two-lane, lane, two-way roadtwo-way roadAn arrow shall An arrow shall ONLYONLY be used on be used on

multi-lane roadsmulti-lane roadsUse only in the Use only in the caution modecaution mode for for shoulder work, or roadside work near shoulder work, or roadside work near the shoulder, or for temporarily closing the shoulder, or for temporarily closing one lane on a two-lane, two way roadone lane on a two-lane, two way roadShall Shall notnot be used to be used to shift all lanesshift all lanes on a on a

multilane road multilane road

Work Zone Work Zone Traffic ControlTraffic Control

Traffic Control Traffic Control ZonesZones

ADVANCE WARNING AREA – tells traffic what to expect ahead (signs, flaggers, etc.)

TRANSITION AREA – moves traffic out of its normal path

BUFFER SPACE – provides protection for traffic & workers

WORK AREA – set aside for workers, equipment and materials

TERMINATION AREA – allows traffic to resume normal driving

Lateral Buffer Space

Activity Area

A

C

B

Suggested Advance Suggested Advance Warning Sign Warning Sign

SpacingSpacingAdvanced Warning – Sign Spacing

Distance between signsA B C

100 100100

350 350 350

500 500 500

1,000 1,500 2,640

Urban (high speed)

Urban (low speed)

Rural

Expressway/freeway

Road Type

Transition AreaTransition AreaMoves road users out of normal pathMoves road users out of normal path

using channelizing devices using channelizing devicesNeeds to be obvious to road usersNeeds to be obvious to road usersSuggested Suggested minimum of 5 minimum of 5 channelizingchannelizing

devices in any taper devices in any taperMost important part of work zoneMost important part of work zone

Transition AreaTransition Areawithin transition area, there are within transition area, there are

4 possible types of tapers4 possible types of tapers

Two way traffic taperTwo way traffic taperMerging taperMerging taperLane shift taperLane shift taperShoulder taperShoulder taper

____________________________________________Downstream taper (at end)Downstream taper (at end)

Merging TaperMerging Taper(longest type- “L”)(longest type- “L”)

When 2 or more lanes in When 2 or more lanes in the the SAME SAME direction must direction must mergemerge

Length depends on Length depends on speed speed and widthand width of of lane closure lane closure

Multi-lane roads onlyMulti-lane roads only

(ex. I-95, 4 lane arterials)(ex. I-95, 4 lane arterials)

L

Taper Length FormulasTaper Length FormulasDetermining Value of “L”Determining Value of “L”

Speed LimitSpeed Limit FormulaFormula

40 MPH or less40 MPH or less LL = = W x SW x S22

6060

45 MPH or greater45 MPH or greater LL = W x = W x SSL = taper length in feetL = taper length in feet

W = width of lane in feetW = width of lane in feet

S = speed limit S = speed limit

Example:Example: Merging Merging TaperTaper

Given:Given:

Merging taper Merging taper

45 MPH speed limit45 MPH speed limit

10 ft lane closed10 ft lane closed

Solution:Solution:

L = W x SL = W x S

L = 10 x 45L = 10 x 45

L = 450 ftL = 450 ft

Example:Example: Merging Merging TaperTaper

Given:Given:

Merging taper Merging taper

30 MPH speed limit30 MPH speed limit

10 ft lane closed10 ft lane closed Solution:Solution:

L = L = W x SW x S22 = = 10 x 3010 x 3022

6060 60 60

L =L = 10 x 90010 x 900 = = 90009000

6060 6060

L = 150 ftL = 150 ft

Example:Example: Given:Given:

One lane shut downOne lane shut down

Two lane road Two lane road

45 MPH speed limit45 MPH speed limit

12 ft lane closed for 6 hours12 ft lane closed for 6 hours

Solution:Solution:

L = 100 ft maximumL = 100 ft maximum

Shifting TaperShifting TaperMoves traffic laterally into aMoves traffic laterally into a

different path when different path when a merge a merge is notis not required requiredNumber of lanes remains theNumber of lanes remains the samesame½ length½ length of a merging taper of a merging taperEx: 2 lane lateral shift, I-95crossoverEx: 2 lane lateral shift, I-95crossover

Shoulder TaperShoulder TaperNormally used when improvedNormally used when improved

shoulders might be mistaken as a shoulders might be mistaken as a driving lanedriving lane

1/3 length1/3 length of a merging taper of a merging taperEx: culvert cleaning, sidewalk repair,Ex: culvert cleaning, sidewalk repair,

parking lanes, sign parking lanes, sign installationinstallation

Two-way TaperTwo-way Taper(one lane, 2 way taper)(one lane, 2 way taper)

Portion of road is usedPortion of road is used alternately by road alternately by road

usersusers in each direction in each directionALLALL two-lane roads two-lane roadsTypically requires flaggersTypically requires flaggers100 ft maximum100 ft maximum

(rule of thumb is 50’ – 100’)(rule of thumb is 50’ – 100’)

Ex: culvert installation, Ex: culvert installation, utility workutility work

Buffer SpaceBuffer Space

Provides safety for workers and roadProvides safety for workers and road users users

Open and unoccupied spaceOpen and unoccupied space before before thethe work area work areaFree of equipment, workers, Free of equipment, workers, materials,materials, and workers’ vehiclesand workers’ vehiclesProvides additional stopping areaProvides additional stopping area

MPH vs. Feet/secondMPH vs. Feet/second MPHMPH FT/SECFT/SEC

35

51

45

55

65

66

81

95

Stopping Sight Distance (wet pavement)From AASHTO – A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets 1984

2525

3535

4545

5555

2.5

2.5

2.5

2.5

90

130

165

200

55

120

215

335

145145

250250

380380

535535

Design speed (mph)

Brake Reaction

Time(sec.)

Distance(feet)

Braking Distance on level

(feet)

Stopping Sight

Distance(feet)

Work AreaWork AreaPortion of roadway closed to trafficPortion of roadway closed to traffic

and set aside for workers, and set aside for workers, equipment, material, and any equipment, material, and any “shadow vehicle”.“shadow vehicle”.May be fixed or may move as workMay be fixed or may move as work

progresses progressesYou need to consider full extent ofYou need to consider full extent of

work zone & equipment when work zone & equipment when setting up devicessetting up devices

Downstream TaperDownstream Taper

Guides road users back into theGuides road users back into the original lane original lane

Placed in termination areaPlaced in termination area100 ft minimum100 ft minimum per lane per laneNot always necessaryNot always necessary

Device SpacingDevice SpacingBuffer and Work AreaBuffer and Work Area(parallel to travelway)(parallel to travelway)

Maximum spacing=Maximum spacing= 2 x speed limit 2 x speed limit (in (in feet)feet)

Transition AreaTransition Area

(across travelway)(across travelway)

Maximum spacing=Maximum spacing= speed limit speed limit (in (in feet)feet)

SLSL2 x SL2 x SL

AcrossAcross

ParallelParallel

Work DurationWork Duration(how long you gonna be there?)(how long you gonna be there?)

Since 1994, this has been a Since 1994, this has been a major factor in determining the major factor in determining the number and types of devices to number and types of devices to

be usedbe used

5 categories have been 5 categories have been developed based on developed based on TIMETIME

5 Categories5 Categories1)1) MobileMobile– – work that moves intermittently or work that moves intermittently or

continuouslycontinuously

2)2) Short durationShort duration – – work that occupies a location work that occupies a location up to 1 hourup to 1 hour

3)3) Short-term stationaryShort-term stationary – – daytime work thatdaytime work that occupies a location for occupies a location for more more

thanthan 1 hour 1 hour within one daylight within one daylight periodperiod

4)4) Intermediate-term stationaryIntermediate-term stationary -- -- work work thatthat occupies a location occupies a location more than 1 more than 1 daylight daylight period up to 3 days, or period up to 3 days, or nighttime work nighttime work lasting more than 1 lasting more than 1 hour.hour.

5)5) Long-term stationaryLong-term stationary – – work that occupies work that occupies a a location more than 3 days location more than 3 days

5 Categories5 Categories*For mobile & short duration:*For mobile & short duration:Safety should not be compromised with fewer Safety should not be compromised with fewer

devices; devices; keep it simple by using keep it simple by using larger/more dominantlarger/more dominant and more mobile devices and more mobile devices (brighter vests, better sign (brighter vests, better sign

sheeting, high intensity strobes/lights, signs on vehicles, flags)sheeting, high intensity strobes/lights, signs on vehicles, flags);; ** flaggers should be used when traffic ** flaggers should be used when traffic

conditions warrant their useconditions warrant their use

*Short-term stationary*Short-term stationary*Intermediate-term stationary*Intermediate-term stationary*Long-term stationary*Long-term stationaryAll devices shall be retroreflective; may be All devices shall be retroreflective; may be

necessary to remove inappropriate markings necessary to remove inappropriate markings with temporary ones. with temporary ones.

Flagging Flagging “rules”“rules”

State lawState lawOSHAOSHAMUTCD MUTCD DOT Spec DOT Spec

State LawState LawTITLE XXI -- MOTOR VEHICLESTITLE XXI -- MOTOR VEHICLES

CHAPTER 265 ---RULES OF THE ROADCHAPTER 265 ---RULES OF THE ROAD265:3-b Obedience to Flagpersons. –265:3-b Obedience to Flagpersons. – I. The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of I. The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any flagperson in the act of directing, controlling, or any flagperson in the act of directing, controlling, or regulating traffic within any construction, maintenance, or regulating traffic within any construction, maintenance, or utility work area indicated by official traffic control utility work area indicated by official traffic control devices. If the flagperson is displaying a signal to stop, devices. If the flagperson is displaying a signal to stop, the driver of a vehicle upon a way shall stop the vehicle at the driver of a vehicle upon a way shall stop the vehicle at least 25 feet before reaching such flagperson. The driver least 25 feet before reaching such flagperson. The driver shall not proceed until the flagperson indicates that traffic shall not proceed until the flagperson indicates that traffic may proceed and until the driver may do so safely. may proceed and until the driver may do so safely.

II. Any person who violates the provisions of this section II. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined not more shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined not more than $100 for the first offense and not more than $250 for than $100 for the first offense and not more than $250 for any subsequent offense committed during any calendar any subsequent offense committed during any calendar year. year.

OSHAOSHA1926.201(a) Flaggers1926.201(a) Flaggers

Flaggers. Signaling by flaggers and the Flaggers. Signaling by flaggers and the use of flaggers, including warning use of flaggers, including warning garments worn by flaggers shall conform garments worn by flaggers shall conform to Part VI of the Manual on Uniform to Part VI of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Millennium Traffic Control Devices, Millennium Edition, December 2000, FHWAEdition, December 2000, FHWA

MUTCD(2003)MUTCD(2003)Part 6Part 6

Flaggers shall wear ANSI Class 2 apparel that Flaggers shall wear ANSI Class 2 apparel that has a has a backgroundbackground color of either fluorescent color of either fluorescent orange/red OR yellow/green orange/red OR yellow/green AND AND have have retroreflective material retroreflective material that is orange, yellow, that is orange, yellow, white, silver, yellow-green (or fluorescent white, silver, yellow-green (or fluorescent versions), versions), ANDAND be visible for at least 1,000 ft., be visible for at least 1,000 ft., ANDAND identify the wearer as a person. identify the wearer as a person. For nighttime work, ANSI Class 3 apparel For nighttime work, ANSI Class 3 apparel should be considered for flaggers. should be considered for flaggers. ST/SL paddle should be primary device ST/SL paddle should be primary device Flags should be limited to emergency situationsFlags should be limited to emergency situations

Tools of the Tools of the trade…..trade…..

S/S PaddleS/S PaddleMust be 8 sided (not round)Must be 8 sided (not round)Minimum 18 inches on a rigid handleMinimum 18 inches on a rigid handleSTOPSTOP= 6 in. white letters & border on red= 6 in. white letters & border on redSLOWSLOW=6 in. black letters & border on =6 in. black letters & border on orangeorangeMust be retroreflectorized for nightMust be retroreflectorized for nightEither face MAY have flashing Either face MAY have flashing lights lights

meeting certain criteriameeting certain criteria

FlagsFlags(emergency use only)(emergency use only)

Minimum 24 inch squareMinimum 24 inch squareRed materialRed materialFastened to 36 inch staffFastened to 36 inch staffFree edge should be weightedFree edge should be weightedRetroreflectorized red for nightRetroreflectorized red for night

Safety VestsSafety VestsClass 1,2, and 3Class 1,2, and 3

As of June 1999, it is the first As of June 1999, it is the first VOLUNTARY consensus standard setVOLUNTARY consensus standard set

by ANSIby ANSIIt is a guide to help the It is a guide to help the manufacturer, manufacturer, consumer, and general consumer, and general publicpublicClass 1Class 1 – offers least visibility and best for off-– offers least visibility and best for off- road road workworkClass 2Class 2 – good for highway workers and offers good – good for highway workers and offers good

visibility visibilityClass 3Class 3 – most conspicuous and best in high hazard – most conspicuous and best in high hazard areasareas

Flaggers shall Flaggers shall wear:wear:ANSI Class 2 apparel that has a ANSI Class 2 apparel that has a backgroundbackground color of either fluorescent color of either fluorescent orange/red OR yellow/green orange/red OR yellow/green ANDANDhave have retroreflective material retroreflective material that is that is orange, yellow, white, silver, yellow-green orange, yellow, white, silver, yellow-green (or fluorescent versions), (or fluorescent versions), ANDAND be visible for at least 1,000 ft., be visible for at least 1,000 ft., ANDANDidentify the wearer as a person. identify the wearer as a person. For nighttime work, ANSI Class 3 apparel For nighttime work, ANSI Class 3 apparel

should be considered for flaggers.should be considered for flaggers.

Flaggers should…Flaggers should… Stay alert at all timesStay alert at all times Face oncoming trafficFace oncoming traffic Be highly visibleBe highly visible

Stand aloneStand alone Stay on the shoulderStay on the shoulder

Out of the path of vehiclesOut of the path of vehicles

PreferredPreferredFlagger LocationFlagger Location

NEVER in the NEVER in the path of moving path of moving vehiclesvehicles

On the shoulderOn the shoulder At the beginning At the beginning

of the taper (on of the taper (on lane closures)lane closures)

Flagger positionsFlagger positions*drivers must have sufficient distance to stop

*flaggers should stand on the shoulder until the oncoming traffic has stopped

*must have an escape route

*must be clearly visible to first and all road users

*should stand alone

ADVANCE ADVANCE WARNING AREAWARNING AREA

TAPERTAPER

Flagger Flagger positionspositions

Single Flagger Single Flagger OperationsOperations

Several conditions have to be met for single flagger operations:

Low volumeGood visibility

No curves or hillsShort work spaceShort durationLow speeds

ADVANCE ADVANCE WARNING AREAWARNING AREA

TAPERTAPER

Flagger positionFlagger position if conditions warrant oneif conditions warrant one

Stopping Sight Distance by Speedcan be used to determine the location of a flagger station before the “Work Area” Speed (mph)Speed (mph) Distance (ft)Distance (ft)

2020 115115

2525 155155

3030 200200

3535 250250

4040 305305

4545 360360

5050 425425

5555 495495

should be increased with downgrades or wet should be increased with downgrades or wet conditionsconditions

That one That one moment of moment of

complacencycomplacency….….

Take down or Take down or cover the cover the

“Flagger” sign“Flagger” signwhen you are when you are

gonegone

SummarySummaryWe need to make work zones We need to make work zones

safer because:safer because:

There is more construction spendingThere is more construction spendingGrowing traffic volumesGrowing traffic volumesMore work is done under traffic flowMore work is done under traffic flowIncreasing congestionIncreasing congestionIncreasing crashesIncreasing crashesPublic dissatisfaction and frustration with wz’sPublic dissatisfaction and frustration with wz’s

Where to get the Where to get the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and HighwaysDevices for Streets and Highways

(Parts 1, 5, & 6)(Parts 1, 5, & 6) http://http://

mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/kno-2003r1.htmmutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/kno-2003r1.htm