Traffic Control for Work Zones

In Traffic Control for Work Zones, you'll learn ...

• Fundamental principles of temporary traffic control
• Typical temporary traffic control zone components
• Various types of signs (regulatory, warning, etc.) and their applications
• Location and placement considerations for signs

Overview

Credit: 3 PDH

Length: 53 pages

In this course, you’ll learn how to effectively plan and design temporary traffic controls for work zone locations.

Traffic signs and pavement markings are the primary communication devices used for informing drivers of regulations, roadway conditions, etc. within work zones. Providing motorists with relevant information when they need it can make roads safer and more efficient while reducing risks. However, poor management and maintenance can greatly reduce traffic safety, contribute to roadway incidents, and increase liability exposure.

The objective of this course is to give engineers and designers an in-depth look at the principles to be considered when selecting and designing temporary traffic control for work zones. Upon course completion, you should be familiar with the general design guidelines for work zone traffic control.

The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD) 2009 Edition will serve as a course reference for fundamental temporary traffic control design principles. The MUTCD is recognized as the national standard for all traffic control devices installed on any street, highway, bikeway, or private road open to public travel. Nationwide consistency is the goal of the MUTCD by requiring uniform, understandable, and effective devices.

The course is not a replacement for the MUTCD Part 6 – Temporary Traffic Control, but rather it is intended to help you use the MUTCD more effectively. To that end, the course is intended to serve as guidance and not as an absolute standard or rule. Should there be any discrepancies between the contents of this course and the MUTCD - always follow the MUTCD.