CRASH TESTS OF WORK ZONE TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES

Full-scale vehicle crash tests were used to evaluate performance of typical work zone traffic control devices. Modified test procedures and evaluation criteria from National Cooperative Highway Research Program Report 230 were used in 108 tests, providing significant insight into impact performance. Plastic drums used as channelizing devices, cones, tubes, and vertical panels performed well in most tests, presenting no hazards in terms of passenger compartment intrusion, interference with vehicle control, or threat to workers and other traffic from impact debris. Various nonstandard forms of ballast placed on top of or inside channelizing devices detracted from performance, and sometimes posed a severe threat to test vehicle occupants, workers, and other traffic. Similarly, impact debris formed in several tests on Type I and III barricades and portable signs and supports posed a threat, and was often thrown long distances through work zones. Warning lights attached to traffic control devices were also thrown free in a number of tests, and appeared to threaten workers and other traffic.