Construction & Contractors Blog
An automated flagger is a useful piece of equipment to consider adding to your work zone. This device replaces the traditional method of having a person control the flow of traffic with a sign that reads "Stop" on one side and "Slow" on the other. This individual's job is dangerous, and when you replace them with a machine that provides commands to traffic, you'll be making an investment in the safety of your work zone. When you visit a company that rents all sorts of work zone equipment, you'll generally see a few different types of automated flaggers. Here are three variations to consider.
Trailer
An automated flagger that is mounted to a trailer body is arguably the most popular design that you'll come across. The size of the trailer can vary, but it's generally large enough to hold a barrier arm, a sign, and a few lights to ensure that the entire trailer is visible. There's a good chance that you have a truck working in your work zone, so it's easy to have the vehicle pull this trailer to where you want to set it up. You'll then unhook the trailer and leave it in place, while the truck will be free for other tasks throughout the day.
Hitch
Some automated flagger devices mount directly to the hitch of a truck. Unlike the trailer variation, they don't have wheels; they simply stick out from the hitch and feature the standard elements of the barrier arm, signage, and lights. The big advantage of this variation is that it's easy to move around. Once you have the device connected to the hitch of a truck, it will remain in place until you remove it. If you want the flagger in different locations around the work zone, all you have to do is hop in the truck to drive it where you want it.
Freestanding
There are also flagger devices that are freestanding. These devices are smaller and possible for a couple of people to lift together. You'll typically load this device into the bed of a truck and then have people unload it and set it up wherever you need it. Freestanding flagger devices often have a tripod-style design to allow you to set them up and take them down quickly. While they're smaller than trailer devices, their compact size can make them a good option in tight areas such as parking lots.
For more information on work zone equipment, contact a professional near you.
Share10 June 2022
