A.General.
1.Requirements Before Device Installation. Before beginning work, coordinate and hold a meeting with the Engineer to review the traffic control plans.
2.Placement. If the placement of work zone signs interferes with permanent signs or an obstruction makes the required location impractical, place the work zone signs at an approved location. Revise the sign messages if necessary. Place traffic control devi ces to meet the standards and requirements of the MUTCD and the Standard Highway Signs and Markings Book, published by the FHWA. Do not lean the sign face or sign supports on sign anchors. Install the sign supports and face or mark the anchors so that they are visible. Only place traffic control devices that are applicable to actual conditions of the project site. Remove devices once they are no longer necessary. Remove sign bases at the same time that sign faces are removed. Have all required devices available for installation when needed. Maintain, relocate, cover, or remove devices as necessary. Install and maintain devices so that they function in the manner that they were crash tested.
3.Traffic Control Maintenance and Revisions. When the Engineer notifies the Contractor, Traffic Control Supervisor, Watchperson, or Traffic Signal Maintenance Person of the need for traffic control to be furnished, installed, relocated, maintained, removed, or otherwise revised; the Contr actor, Traffic Control Supervisor, Watchperson, or Traffic Signal Maintenance Person must be on the project addressing the issue within one hour of the notification. If additional resources or time are needed, the Engineer and the traffic control personnel on site will agree on an action plan and a time for completion. If the the action plan is not executed or the the Contractor fails to meet the time for completion, the Engineer will take the action detailed in this section. If the Engineer issues notifi cation of the need for traffic control to be furnished, installed, relocated, maintained, removed, or otherwise revised and the Contractor, Traffic Control Supervisor, or Watchperson fail to comply, the Engineer will perform any combination of the following:
1.The Engineer will apply a contract price reduction of $1,000 if the Contractor, Traffic Control Supervisor, or Watchperson is not on the project addressing the issue within one hour. 313 2. The Engineer will apply a contract price reduction of $1,000 per day.
3.The Engineer will have the work completed by other means, without additional notification, and deduct the cost of the work from monies due or to become due the Contractor.
4.The Engineer will direct all other work to cease until the deficiencies have been corrected.
B.Traffic Control Device Condition Classifications. Classify traffic control devices according to ATSSA’s Quality Guidelines for Temporary Traffic Control Devices and Features , using the designations “acceptable”, “marginal”, and “unacceptable” .
1.Initial installation of Traffic Control Devices. If traffic control devices are to remain the property of the Contractor upon project completion, provide devices that are classified as “acceptable” at the time of installation. If traffic control devices are to remain the Department’s property upon project completion, the devices must be new at the time of installation and must be classified as “acceptable” when the Department takes pos session. If devices are not classified as “acceptable” when the Department takes possession, provide identical devices that meet the “acceptable” designation at no additional cost to the Department.
2.Replacement of Traffic Control Devices. For each type of device used, except warning lights, a maximum of 25 percent of the quantity may fall into the “marginal” classification during the course of the work. Replace devices as needed so that at least 75 percent of the devices remain classified as “acceptable”. Replace any devices that become classified as “unacceptable”. Install replacement devices that are classified as “acceptable” within 24 hours of discovering that the previously installed device falls below the specified classification limit. Replace devices not covered by ATSSA’s Quality Guidelines for Temporary Traffic Control Devices and Features when they are no longer in an operable condition. Clean traffic control devices as necessary to maintain the proper brightness of reflectorized material or warning lights.
C.Personnel. The traffic control supervisor and traffic signal maintenance person shall be able to access the project site within one hour of notification and be “on call” on a 24 hour basis.
1.Traffic Control Supervisor. If designated in the plans, provide a traffic control supervisor. If the designated traffic control supervisor becomes unavailable, designate a replacement supervisor.
a.Qualifications. Designate a traffic control supervisor that:
1.Has completed a traffic control course as outlined in Control Course” . 314 2. Is familiar with the requirements of the Department traffic control plans and specifications.
3.Has a total of at least 12 months experience with traffic control plans, layouts and maintenance.
4.Is competent to supervise personnel in traffic control operations.
b.Duties. The traffic control supervisor shall:
1.Provide traffic control as required
2.Perform and document a daily inspection of the installation, operation, maintenance, and removal of all traffic control devices. Submit copies of the daily inspection documents on a weekly basis.
3.Correct traffic control conditions that cause erratic vehicle movements, unexpected braking, etc.
4.Propose changes to improve traffic flow through the work zone.
c.Traffic Control Course. A 16 hour minimum traffic control course shall be one of the following: − ATSSA Traffic Control Supervisor Course; − AGC Traffic Control Supervisor Course; − NHI’s Design and Operation of Work Zone Traffic Control, course number 133112A ; or − Approved subject courses with a minimum of 3 hour per subject of the following(combined total must be at least 16 hours): • Manual and standard signs used in work areas; • Channelizing devices and temporary barriers, pavement markings, lighting devices, arrow displays and spec ial devices, and devices location and placement; • Layout for traffic control devices, motorist characteristics, and options and alternatives; • Installation and removal of the traffic control zone, and operation and maintenance of the traffic control zone; and • Flagging operations, legal liability and record keeping, and emergency situations. Each course or subject course shall include a workshop covering: − Designing traffic control; − Installation and removal; and − Operations and maintenance. Each workshop shal l also include a question and answer portion. A valid Minnesota Department of Transportation Traffic Control Supervisor Certification will be accepted in lieu of traffic control courses listed above.
2.Watchperson. Provide a watchperson that patrols the project to ensure that the traffic control devices are properly placed. If the plans specify a traffic control supervisor, the traffic control supervisor may be designated as the watchperson. 315 On days when work is in progress, the watchperson shall patrol the project at least three times per day, with a minimum of 6 hours between inspections. On days when no work is in progress the watchperson shall patrol the project twice per day, once each morning and once each evening before sunset. The watchperson shall perform at least one inspection per week after dark. If work is being performed 24 hours a day, the watchperson shall patrol the project every 8 hours. The watchperson shall perform and document a daily inspection of the work that they perform. Submit a copy of the daily inspection documentation and watchperson’s hours on a weekly basis. Immediately assist the watchperson to correct conditions that cause erratic traffic movement, unexpected braking, etc., and erect, repair, replace, or relocate the required traffic control devices. The Engineer may allow suspension of watchperson service during periods of authorized suspension of work or after substantial completion of the work.
3.Traffic Signal Maintenance Person. If permanent or temporary traffic signals are being installed, designate a traffic signal maintenance person. This person is in addition to the traffic control supervisor and the watchperson as specified in Sections 7 04.04 C.1, “Traffic Control Supervisor” and 704.04
C.2, “Watchperson” . The Engineer may allow the traffic control supervisor to perform the responsibilities of the traffic signal maintenance person provided that they hav e the appropriate training or experience. The traffic signal maintenance person shall be responsible for maintenance of interim and permanent traffic signals.
4.Emergency Contact Information. Provide written documentation to the Engineer, Highway Patrol , 911 Coordinator, and local law enforcement agencies of the name, address, and phone number of the: − Superintendent as outlined in Section 105.02, “Contractor Requirements” ; − Traffic Control Supervisor as outlined in Section 704.04 C.1, “Traffic Control Supervisor” ; − Watchperson as outlined in Section 704.04 C.2, “Watchperson” ; and − Traffic Signal Maintenance Person as outlined in Section 704.04 C.3, “Traffic Signal Maintenance Person” . If any of the listed personnel change, provide written notification containing the new name, address, and phone number to the Engineer , Highway Patrol, 911 Coordinator, and local law enforcement agencies, within 24 hours of the change. 316 5. Flaggers. Before individuals will be allowed to perform flagging, the Engineer must receive written verification that the flaggers provided for the pr oject have passed the written examination found at http://www.ndsc.org /. Furnish each flagger with the North Dakota Flagging Handbook. E nsure each flagger observes the rules and regulations contained in the North Dakota Flagging Handbook . If there are any differences between the requirements in the handbook and specifications, the specifications will govern over the handbook. The handbook is available for download at www.ndltap.org and at http://www.ndsc.org /. Do not assign flaggers other duties while working as authorized flaggers. If flagging is performed after sunset, provide each flagger with a flashlight topped with a transparent red glow cone and a reflectorized STOP/SLOW paddle. Illuminate the flagger’s location using floodlights as specified in Section 704.04 K.6, “Floodlights” . 6.Pilot Car. Use a pilot car to guide vehicles through or around the construction area when traffic is reduced to a single lane. At each end of the single lane section, coordinate the pilot car operation with flaggers.
D.Signing.
1.Project Terminal Signing. Before starting work, erect the required traffic control devices at each end of the project and at intersecting roadways shown on plans. Leave these devices in place and maintain them for the duration of their use.
2.Work Area Signing. Do not start construction work until the proper traffic control devices for the work area are in place. If no details are provided for the particular type of construction work involved, install traffic control devices according to the MUTCD or as directed by the Engineer. If additional signing is required due to Contractor operations: − Furnish flaggers at no additional cost to the Department until the additional signs are installed ; or − Cease construction operations in that area until the additional signs are installed. Relocate, remove, or change traffic control devices so that the devices match the actual conditions of the project site. When no work is in progress, completely cover or remove signs that are only necessary when work is being performed. Ensure all portable sign mounts that are in place longer than 24 hours or in place after sunset are perpendicular to the ground. If portable signs are trailer mounted, use trailers that meet the crash test requirements of NCHRP Report 350 or MASH. 317 Place portable signs on the shoulder or outside of the traveled lane without posing a hazard to traffic and in clear view of oncoming traffic without sight obstructions. When portable signs are not in use: − Move the signs a minimum of 60 feet from the edge of the traveled lane and place so that the message cannot be read by traffic; or − Lay the signs face down on the foreslope. Only lay signs on the foreslope if the laydown height is 6 inches or less.
3.Existing Signs. Reset existing traffic signs that are moved to accommodate construction activities.
4.Route Markers. The Department will furnish necessary route marker signs. Furnish all necessary hardware to install the Department furnished signs. Install the Department furnished route marker signs on Contractor furnished posts.
E.Barricade and Vertical Panel Application.
1.General. Barricade rails and vertical panels with stripes that begin in the upper right corner and slope down and to the left are “right” devices. Install “right” devices on the right side of a traffic lane. Barricade rails and panels with stripes that begin in the upper left corner and slope down and to the right are “left” devices. Install “left” devices only on the left side of a traffic lane.
2.Barricades. Use Type I or Type II barricades to mark a specific hazard or to channelize traffic. If using Type I or Type II barricades to channelize traffic, install barri cades so that they face the oncoming traffic. When closing a section of road, install Type III barricades at the points of closure. Extend the Type III barricades completely across the roadway including the shoulders or from curb to curb. If access for equipment and authorized vehicles is necessary, use Type III barricades with gates or movable sections that can be closed when work is not in progress, or with indirect openings that discourages public entry. If the road is closed, but access to local traffic must be furnished, arrange the Type III barricades to permit local traffic only. Do not use Type III barricades to channelize traffic. If the construction limits encroach onto pedestrian routes and the pedestrian traffic cannot be diverted to other existing pedestrian routes, install Type III barricades to define the temporary pedestrian access. 318 3. Vertical Panel – Back to Back. Use vertical panels that are faced on both sides as channelizing devices, warning devices, or windrow markers.
4.Stackable Vertical Panel. Use stackable vertical panel to channelize traffic.
H.Flexible Delineator Application. If using a two-sided delineator, keep the wide side of the delineator toward traffic. If the delineator is to be seen by side traffic, use an additional delineator with its wide side placed facing the side traffic. The Engineer will not measure the additional delineator for payment.
I.Delineator Application. Use delineators within project site for traffic guidance. Do not use delineators as warning devices. Mount delineators on supports so the reflector is 4 feet above the roadway edge. Use white reflectors for delineators installed along the right side of the road. Use yellow reflectors for delineators installed along the left edge of divided streets, divided highways, and one-way roads. Along roadway curves, space delineators as specified in the MUTCD.
J.Precast Concrete Median Barrier (State Furnished).
1.Pickup. At least two weeks before taking control of State furnished barriers; notify the Engineer of the date that control will be taken. Notify the Engineer 24 hours in advance to verify the time of pickup. Before taking control of the barriers, perform an inventor y of all barriers and associated materials to be received with the Engineer, and document the results. Both parties must sign and date the inventory. Each party must retain a signed copy of the inventory. Provide necessary equipment to load and secure the barriers.
2.Return. At least two weeks before transporting barriers to the designated storage location, notify the Engineer of the transportation date. Notify the Engineer 24 hours in advance to verify the time of return. When returning, stack barriers on 4 inch by 4 inch boards on the ground and in between stacked rows of barriers. 319 At the time of storage, place a connecting bolt assembly, including two washers and a nut, through the barrier loop on each barrier. Thread the nut onto to the bolt a suffi cient distance to secure the bolt assembly to the barrier during transport. After completing delivery, perform an inventory of the barriers and associated materials with the Engineer, and document the results. Replace any barriers or materials that have been damaged or lost at no additional cost to the Department. After any replacement items have been delivered, the Engineer and the Contractor will sign and date the inventory and both parties will retain a copy. Provide necessary equipment to unload the barriers.
3.Barrier Markers. Replace missing barrier markers on the State furnished barriers before allowing two way traffic and throughout the usage of the barriers.
K.Lighting Device Application.
1.Flashing Lights (Type A, Low -Intensity). Use Type A low -intensity flashers to warn drivers that they are approaching or traveling in a hazardous area.
2.Flashing Lights (Type B, High-Intensity). Use high-intensity flashers at extremely hazardous site conditions. Operate the high- intensity flashers 24 hours per day.
3.Steady-Burn Lights (Type C). Use steady -burn warning lights to delineate the edges of the traveled way on detour curves, on lane changes, and along tapers.
4.Mounting Height of Warning Lights. Mount warning lights on:
a.Barricade and portable barriers with a minimum height of 36 inches from the bottom of the lens to the roadway.
b.Signs with the bottom of the light housing between 2 and 12 inches above the top of the sign.
c.Vertical channelizing devices and independent supports between 4 and 5 feet above the pavement.
5.Sequencing Arrow Panels. During nighttime operations, use an automatic dimmer on the lamps to dim them to 50 percent of the output.
6.Floodlights. If construction activities are performed at night, provide floodlighting for the construction area, inspection area, and flagger stations. Adequately illuminate the area without creating glare in the eyes of drivers. 320 L. Attenuation Devices. In addition to the modules for layouts as required in the plans, provide additional replacement modules for each layout location, up to a maximum of 20 modules per contract. Place the replacement modules at a location acceptable to the Engineer. Maintain the modules in each layout. Replace any damaged modules. If the replacement modules are installed, have additional replacement modules available within 3 calendar days.
M.Protection Vehicle with Truck Mounted Attenuation Device (TMA). Provide a protection vehicle with a truck mounted attenuation device to protect personnel and equipment from damage during mobile operations. Use truck -mounted attenuation devices that meet the test requirements of NCHRP Report 350 or MASH test level TL-3 . Use a protection vehicle equipped with a TMA. Use a protection vehicle that is of a weight recommended by the manufacturer of the TMA. Equip the protection vehicle with an advance warning flashing or sequencing arrow panel conforming to Section 704.03 M, “Advance Warning Flasher or Sequencing Arrow Panel” and the MUTCD.
N.Obliteration of Pavement Marking.
1.Removal. Remove existing markings and place the new delineation before opening the affected lane or lanes to traffic. Do not permanently damage the surface or texture of the pavement when removing pavement markings. Where blast cleaning is used for removal of markings immediately remove the blast material from the pavement.
2.Masking. Masking of existing pavement markings will be allowed when indicated in the plans and will allow the option of masking or require the use of masking. When masking is used, overlap the masking over the existing marking by 1 inch on each side. Mask markings using paint or tape. Mix paint so as to closely approximate the color of the in-place pavement. Use removable, non-reflective, preformed tape that minimizes contrast with the pavement.
O.Traffic Control for Uneven Pavement.
1.General. If pavement in adjacent lanes or the shoulder adjacent to an open lane is uneven at the completion of a day’s work, install traffic control devices as specified in this section. Leave these devices in place until the pavement surface in the adjacent lanes or shoulder are even.
2.Two Lane Roadways. Install an “Uneven Lanes” sign (Sign W8-11-48) and a supplementary plaque identifying the length of the uneven pavement (Sign W20- 52-54). Place this assembly on the right shoulder, in both directions, in advance of the uneven pavement. Between the “Uneven Lanes” sign and the beginning of the uneven pavement, install a “Do Not Pass” sign (Sign R4-1 -48) on the right shoulder in both directions. Install “Uneven Lanes” signs and a supplementary plaque identifying the length of the uneven pavement at the following intersections: − County Major Collectors; − State Highways; − US Highways; and − Interstate Ramps. Install tubular markers spaced at 2 times the posted speed limit through the uneven pavement area.
3.Multilane Roadways.
a.Uneven Pavem ent 2 Inches or Less. Install an “Uneven Lanes” sign (Sign W8-11-48) and a supplementary plaque identifying the length of the uneven pavement (Sign W20-52-54). Place this assembly on the right shoulder, in advance of the uneven pavement. Install “Uneven Lanes” signs and a supplementary plaque identifying the length of the uneven pavement at the following intersections: − County Major Collectors; − State Highways; − US Highways; and − Interstate Ramps.
b.Uneven Pavement Greater Than 2 Inches. Install an “Uneven Lanes” sign (Sign W8-11-48) and a supplementary plaque identifying the length of the uneven pavement (Sign W20-52-54). Place this assembly on the right shoulder, in advance of the uneven pavement. Between the “Uneven Lanes” sign and the beginning of the uneven pavement, install a “Do Not Pass” sign (Sign R4-1 -48) on the right shoulder. Install “Uneven Lanes” signs and a supplementary plaque identifying the length of the uneven pavement at the following intersections: − County Major Collec tors; − State Highways; − US Highways; and − Interstate Ramps. Install tubular markers spaced at 2 times the posted speed limit through the uneven pavement area.
4.Uneven Shoulder and Adjacent Lane. If the shoulder and adjacent driving lane are not even at the end of the day, the following criteria will apply: Install “Shoulder Drop Off” signs (Sign W8-9a-48) at the following locations: − In advance of the drop off; − Spaced at each mile from the advance sign; and − At major intersections (CMC routes, state and U S highways, and Interstate ramps). If the difference in elevation between the shoulder and the driving lane is 2” or greater, construct a slough at the edge of the driving lane that is 4:1 or flatter. If the difference in elevation between the shoulder and the driving lane is less than 2”, no slough is required.