Guidelines for Work Zone Intrusion Countermeasures

Table of Contents

  1. RUMBLE STRIPS
  2. CHANNELIZING DEVICE SPACING REDUCTION
  3. FLAGGER STATION ENHANCED SETUPS
  4. WORK ZONE SPEED LIMIT REDUCTIONS
  5. POLICE ENFORCEMENT
  6. VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS
  7. DRONE RADAR
2. CHANNELIZING DEVICE SPACING REDUCTION

Channelizing devices are used to provide a physical separation between the travel space and the work space and buffer spaces. While channelizing devices cannot physically prevent an intrusion, longitudinal devices are highly effective in providing positive guidance, and in discouraging intentional intrusion, while transverse devices provide redundant warning to drivers who have already entered a closed area. Recommended practices for channelizing devices are provided in the MUTCD, but little specific information is available on effects of device size and spacing. Based on favorable experience at night work zones, and on urban projects in several Regions, it appears that use of close device spacing combined with use of larger devices reduces deliberate intrusions and may reduce inadvertent intrusions as well.

Use Guidelines

The following practices are to be implemented on DOT projects and work sites:

  • A maximum channelizing device spacing of 12 m (40 ft.) is to be provided at stationary work sites where workers are exposed to traffic.
  • This spacing should be maintained a reasonable distance upstream of workers, and may be used throughout the work zone.
  • Where tapers are located less than 150 m (500 ft.) from the work site [300 m (1000 ft.) for high speeds] the 12 m (40 ft.) spacing should be used in the taper as well.
  • Drums or vertical panels are preferred for long-duration work zones, and at any locations where the risk of intrusion is high. Traffic cones are normally adequate for work zones set up and removed on a daily basis.
  • For contracts let before July 22, 1999, orders-on-contract will be used to provide the reduced spacing if not already required in the contract.
  • Notes requiring the reduced spacing will be added to the PS&E for upcoming contracts.
  • Transportation Maintenance Division will purchase additional devices as needed to meet these requirements for TMD work.
  • In long lane or shoulder closures, at least two channelizing devices should be placed transversely at maximum 225 m (750 ft.) intervals to discourage traffic from driving through the closed lane.
  • Frequent checks should be made to reset channelizing devices dislodged by traffic.
  • For paving operations on 2-lane, 2-way roadways, longer device spacings may be used where a pilot vehicle is used, or where setting and retrieving the additional devices does not provide any significant safety improvement.
Completion Date
  • The reduced device spacing should be implemented on all active work by June 15, to the extent devices are available.
  • Notes requiring the reduced spacing will be added to upcoming projects beginning in August, using amendments if necessary.
  • TMD will purchase additional devices, if needed, as soon as FY 99funds are available.
Reporting Requirements

By July 1, each Region will provide a brief summary describing the status of this countermeasure. While a detailed project-by-project summary is not required, it will describe channelizing device usage for contract and maintenance work sites, and describe progress toward meeting the stated guidelines.

This document was contributed by the New York State Department of Transportation. If you have any questions, please contact Charles Riedel.

Last verified: 7/28/1999