What Is a Traffic Control Device?

Traffic control devices are essential in guiding drivers, managing the flow of traffic, and keeping people safe while on the road. Understanding what traffic control devices are, where they can be beneficial, and which control devices to choose for different scenarios can help business owners, event organizers, and other people create safer communities. 

What Is a Traffic Control Device?

A traffic control device can refer to any sign, signal, marking, or other equipment placed on or near a road to inform drivers and pedestrians of what lies ahead. Traffic control devices can be temporary, such as road maintenance or construction signs, or permanent, like traffic signals or stop signs. Temporary traffic control devices can be used while construction is occurring or an event is happening to redirect drivers, whereas permanent devices help keep traffic flowing safely and predictably at all times.

According to the most recent edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), certain road features that can slow down drivers or restrict their driving path, such as curbs or speed bumps, are not considered to be traffic control devices. Rumble strips, fences, and parking barriers are also not considered traffic control devices.

What Is a Traffic Control Device? | Delta Scientific

When Are Traffic Control Devices Necessary?

Businesses, communities, event organizers, and other groups may require traffic control devices to accommodate all kinds of unique situations. For instance, you might notice traffic control devices during major public events, construction projects, or outside high-security facilities.

During Construction Projects

To protect construction workers and guide drivers away from potentially risky areas, traffic control devices are used to direct the flow of traffic and reduce drivers’ speed.

During Public Events

Concerts, festivals, major sports games, and other large public events often require traffic control measures to safely manage the increased number of drivers and pedestrians in the area.

In Parking Lots

Business owners that have large parking areas might want to utilize certain traffic control devices to direct vehicle traffic and maintain safe driving speeds throughout the lot.

High-Security Facilities

High-security facilities, such as government buildings, military bases, or corporate headquarters, often rely on traffic control devices to prevent unauthorized people from entering the property.

During Emergencies

Natural disasters, car accidents, and other emergencies can require emergency personnel to use temporary traffic control devices to guide the public away from dangerous areas, protect the scene, and properly treat injured individuals.

Key Traffic Control Solutions from Delta Scientific

Here at Delta Scientific, we offer more than fifty different types of barriers and traffic control devices to meet the modern needs of business owners, event planners, and other community-oriented people who want to enhance public safety. Here are just a few popular traffic control options currently available:

  • Portable bollards
  • Wedge barricades
  • Sliding gates
  • Parking control beams
  • Swinging gates
  • Guard booths

Discover More from Delta Scientific

Our team at Delta Scientific offers all kinds of innovative traffic control solutions that are suitable for a wide variety of needs. Whether you need temporary devices for an event or permanent installations for a high-security facility, we’re confident that we can help you discover the optimal solution for your requirements.

Explore our full range of traffic control devices or reach out to our team to find the ideal solution for you today.

Sources:

https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/kno_11th_Edition.htm