Road Traffic Control & Construction Safety Blog
Are you interested in learning more about traffic control, road construction safety, automated flagging devices and more? Our blog covers a wide variety of topics ranging from the various kinds of safety hazards flaggers face to the different kinds of traffic control devices that are available for use. As a manufacturer of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFAD) we consider ourselves a reliable source of information in these areas when you need it. That being said, check out our collection of articles below.
Working On Rural Roads
Automated flagger assistance devices (AFADS) can only be used in short term temporary traffic control zones and on two-lane roads. So, you will often find them being used on rural roads. Even without road work going on, rural roads themselves can present dangers. From low visibility and sharp turns to less intense regulation, it’s essential you are aware of the potential hazards of working on rural roads. Continue reading
Three Questions To Ask Before Buying An AFAD
If you’re in the road work construction business, you are all too familiar with the hazards that present themselves daily in your work zone. From weather–related dangers to distracted drivers, the risks are numerous. Implementing an Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD) in your short-term work zone can relieve some of the stresses of working on the road, minimize dangers faced by flaggers and other workers in the work zone, and help traffic flow smoothly. There are several AFAD models on the market, including stop/slow AFADs, red/green AFADs, and other traffic control devices intended for long-term work zones but which type…
Work Zone Safety: Sun Exposure & Heat Exhaustion
Who doesn’t love a warm sunny day? Working outside under blue skies and feeling the sun on your shoulders can be invigorating and is also a big reason why many enjoy working in road construction. However, as temperatures rise, and the sun comes out to stay, you need to focus on protecting your body from harmful UV rays, heat exhaustion, and being aware of other potential dangers that bright sun and hot conditions can bring. Continue reading
Do You Need an AFAD in Your Temporary Work Zone?
We’d like to think that this question could be answered with a simple “yes!” But, if you’re thinking about using an automated flagger assistance device in your work zone, you’ve probably got a few more questions like, are AFADs actually effective? Do they perform better than traditional human flaggers? Are AFADS proven to be safer than other flagging methods? Purchasing an AFAD for your work zone is a big decision. Keep reading to learn more about why you need an AFAD in your work zone. Are AFADs actually effective? Yes. Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) are proven to be an…
Practicing Work Zone Safety in Rainy Conditions
We’ve all heard the old saying “April showers bring May flowers”, a well-intentioned phrase meant to bring an optimistic perspective to the dreary weather that April can commonly bring. However, in the world of work zones, April showers often bring accidents and dangerous conditions. As work zones and temporary traffic control (TTC) zones pop up across the country now that it’s spring, are you prepared for the potential dangers that the sporadic weather can bring?Continue reading
Work Zone Safety: For Drivers
Every year in April, road workers across the country honor National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW). This year NWZAW falls on April 8-12, and the theme is “Drive Like You Work Here.” Federal, state, and independent agencies will be hosting events and promoting awareness of all week long, but you can honor National Work Zone Awareness week all year long by being a safe and responsible driver. In recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, we’ve rounded up four safety tips for driving in work zones and being aware of what’s going on around you. After all, the safety of…
How Do I Become a Certified Flagger?
In work zones, flaggers are some of the most important people on site. Flaggers can have a rewarding career, but traffic control can at times be a very stressful job. It’s become a myth across the industry that flaggers have a job anyone could do. This couldn’t be farther from the truth, as flaggers are at the front lines of protecting workers from work zone hazards, and ensuring that motorists can pass through a work zone safely. Flaggers need to be aware of their surroundings at all times, be able to multitask and be one step ahead, and understand proper…
Work Zone Safety Tips (For Workers)
Earlier this month, we had the opportunity to attend the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) Annual Convention and Traffic Expo. One of the most impactful experiences we had while attending, was viewing the National Work Zone Memorial. Continue reading
Temporary Traffic Control Devices
In work zones across the country, people are using traffic control devices like Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) or Portable Traffic Light Systems (PTLs) to direct traffic flow, increase safety in the work zone, and keep everything running smoothly.
Flagger Safety Hazards
Flaggers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Even if a Flagger has the best training and is paying attention to what is going on around them at all times, they still put their lives in danger every day to direct traffic in work zones and make conditions safer for workers and drivers. Here are three of the most common risks to Flaggers on the job.