Tools of the Trade: Technology Brings Lighting Back to Work Zones

摘要

Paradigms are changing in relation to work-zone lighting. Since the 1990s, most states have stopped using lights on construction drums, cones and channelizers. Lights were perceived as projectiles, able to fly off and cause damage when struck by a vehicle. The lights were also a maintenance problem, requiring costly monitoring and inspection to assure all lights were properly burning. In addition, lights were considered unreliable because, if moved by workers, vibration or bumps from vehicles, the standard 7-in. lens could be improperly tilted or miss-pointed, taking away any value as a visual resource to inform motorists of roadway tapers and lane closings.