California traffic signs aren’t just for designating speed limits or telling drivers they need to stop at intersections. There are also a variety of temporary signs with even more specialized uses. This article will focus specifically on traffic signs and control systems for construction zones.
Traditional Signs
The most popular types of traditional traffic signs for construction zones are poly boards and roll-up signs. Poly board signs feature orange or white backgrounds with silver reflective lettering. They’re usually used to alert drivers to upcoming work zones, detours, lane closures, and potential dangers and are designed for semi-permanent installation, meaning they can be left up for the duration of the project.
Roll-up signs are more temporary. At first glance, they look a lot like poly board signs, but they are made of vinyl rather than solid poly board and must be secured to a heavy-duty cross brace. Roll-up signs come in both reflective and non-reflective options since their much more temporary nature means the signs are often used for only a few hours at a time either during the day or at night.
Hand-Held Signs
In construction zones that require closing lanes, stop/slow paddles may be required to direct traffic. Hand-held signs are only used when the construction zone is temporary, typically lasting only a few hours and rarely more than a day. The proper use of these hand-held signs is to have two workers assigned to the task of directing traffic, one on each side of the construction zone.
The workers stand on the side of the road before it turns into one lane and communicate with each other using walkie-talkies and/or visual signals depending on the length of the construction zone. When the traffic from one side is finished passing through the construction zone, the worker on the other side flips the sign from stop to slow and reverses the flow of traffic. Careful communication is essential when using this traffic control strategy, especially on busy roads and/or long stretches of temporary construction.
Electronic Signs
Electronic signs are becoming more common all the time. The most recognizable of them are arrow boards and portable changeable message boards, both of which are often used to control traffic in construction zones. Other electronic equipment that can be rented or purchased to control traffic in work zones include truck-mounted arrow and message boards, trailer-mounted traffic signals, speed trailers, and automated flagger assistance devices.
Traffic Control Devices
Although electronic traffic control devices are almost always the best option for major construction projects or any work zone on a major highway, there are still some circumstances where simpler traffic control devices will suffice. Even when electronic signs are in use, channelizers, delineators, and traffic cones can all have a role to play, as well.
Most traffic control devices are designed to help drivers figure out where and when to pass through construction zones. However, some equipment can also offer physical protection to the construction workers on site. Water walls and energy dissipaters are good examples. Rumble strips can also be placed to encourage drivers to follow work zone speed limits and remind them to slow down.
The Importance of Compliant Signs
California requires signs and traffic control equipment to conform to state standards. Construction managers need to work with sign and equipment suppliers familiar with those standards.
