Listen to the PODCAST!How do you maintain the traffic signs in your community? Below is a simple self test. Choose the answer that reflects your standard practices:
- We replace traffic signs only if they have been knocked down or if a resident complains about how poor they look.
- On an irregular basis, during regular business hours, we sweep through parts of town and replace the traffic signs that seem the most faded or damaged.
- At least once a year, we perform nighttime inspections to discover which traffic signs are no longer visible.
- We track the age of traffic signs and replace all those that have reached a specific age.
- We have a fancy instrument that measures the traffic sign face for minimum performance. We also have a schedule to routinely measure signs and replace those that are substandard.
Retroreflectivity is the scientific term that describes the ability of a surface to return light back to its source. Retroreflective signs and pavement markings bounce light from vehicle headlights back toward the vehicle and the driver’s eyes, making signs and pavement markings visible to the driver.*
The key to compliance is to have a system in place. Essential elements of a compliant system include regularly inspecting signs and replacing those that no longer function adequately. If you checked answers 3, 4 or 5, in our self test, you have the makings of a management system. Your next step is to make sure that you know the new requirements, and then perform a quick review of your system to make sure that you are fully compliant. If you checked answer 1 or 2 in our self test, run (don’t walk) to your friendly engineering advisor and get help creating a system to manage this important asset. Deadlines for compliance will be here before you know it.
For help or advice interpreting the new requirements, or creating a plan to comply contact: Stephen Dearing, Manager of Traffic Engineering Services - 888.522.6711
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