Evaluation of Technology-Enhanced Flagger Devices: Focus Group and Survey Studies in Kansas

Flagger-controlled work zones are often in place for only a short duration, so adding protection beyond the minimum guidance is rarely done. Several vendors have begun marketing devices equipped with various technologies. While a wide variety of studies have been undertaken to evaluate the technology-enhanced flagger devices, there has been little effort to examine these devices on the basis of perceived usefulness to field personnel and understanding by motorists. This paper was aimed at obtaining responses from field personnel regarding the perceived usefulness of these devices, while synthesizing the effects of these devices based on flagger focus groups and driver survey responses. The focus groups results revealed that weight of devices, conspicuity of flaggers, and awareness of drivers were among the influential criteria for field personnel to opt for a flashing STOP/SLOW paddle. Additionally, 72% of participants agreed that 4 in. red/amber light appeared to have best potential for visibility gains and versatility of applications. From the surveys, only 28% of drivers indicated that they saw the STOP sign or flagger in work zones. When asked about the displayed STOP sign, 74% of in favor drivers stated that it commanded their attention or fulfilled a need, whereas 86% of those not in favor indicated that they either did not see it or thought it was hard to see. More than half of the surveyed drivers did not think that the flashing paddles indicated a more important situation. Only 26% of drivers stated that they drove differently because of the flashing paddles.