Does my project need a traffic signal or AFAD?
Comparative document
TRAFFIC SIGNAL OR AFAD? Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) and Traffic Signals both manage traffic. Which option is the right fit for your project? Use the following guide to determine the correct choice.
AFAD Typical Usage ✓ Mobile* ✓ Short duration ✓ Short-term stationary Intermediate-term stationary Long-term stationary * AFAD Lite
TRAFFIC SIGNALS Typical Usage Mobile* Short duration Short-term stationary ✓ Intermediate-term stationary ✓ Long-term stationary
Use an AFAD when: • Operations are short or medium-term in duration, mobile, or require human judgment. • Worker presence is a priority and full automation is not practical due to work zone duration. • Work zone footprint can allow a single flagger to operate both AFADs with clear views in both directions. • Used in work zones, bridge maintainance and repairs, utility work, road maintenance, and anywhere there is a need for single lane closures.
Use a Traffic Signal when: • The work zone or need to control traffic spans over multiple weeks or involves high-volume traffic. • Both directions of traffic need autonomous direction. • Traffic detection or scheduled timing plans are needed. • Operators do not need to be present on site while in use. • Used for road construction, emergency situations, special events, or any circumstances where traffic needs to be managed.
Decision Grid: AFAD vs. Traffic Signals
Category
Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs)
Temporary Traffic Signals
Deployment Duration
Short to intermediate (1 shift to ~3 days)
Trailer-mounted: intermediate, long-term Trolley (pedestal)-mounted: short term (often under 72 hrs) Automatically operated with pre-timed plans or sensor- actuated timing. Trailer-mounted: large. Requires trailer positioning. Trolley (pedestal)-mounted: Compact. Fits on narrow shoulders or bridges. Trailer-mounted: lane closures, intersections, haul roads, knock-downs.
Control Type
Manual control by trained flagger with clear line of sight, per MUTCD.
Footprint
Moderate: best for open shoulder or temporary roadside. Requires safe positioning area.
Primary Applications
Daily flagging, pilot car operations.
Trolley (pedestal)-mounted: Maintenance, bridge work, urban flagging.
Traffic Detection and Monitoring
Optional camera and incident video and storage.
Certain models offer optional camera, remote video monitoring, sensors, and Driveway Assistance Device (DAD) integration. Autonomous with solar panels & rechargeable battery. Trailer-mounted: Requires trailer transport. Trolley (pedestal)-mounted: Highly portable. Can be moved manually. Trailer-mounted: High visibility, long-term use. Provides full inter- section control. Trolley (pedestal)- mounted: Flexible and compact. Quick setup. Useful where flagger escape routes are unavailable. Longer setup time: may require plan approval or temporary markings.
Power
Autonomous with solar panels & rechargeable battery. Quick deployment. Trailer or hitch- mounted.
Mobility
Advantages
Increased flagger safety & motorist compliance. Good for short-term work. Integrates with pilot car operations.
Limitations
Requires flagger. Not ideal for high- volume or long-term work.
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