Traffic control equipment has been going through changes in recent years, embracing innovations in technology for the safety of all road users. Artificial intelligence, Intelligent Transportation Systems and other emerging technologies are playing pivotal roles in delivering safer, more efficient traffic flow.
This is important for any business that carries out work on or near public roads, such as those in the construction, utility repair or event management industries. Embracing new technology for traffic control can raise safety standards, ensure legal compliance and enable faster completion of projects.
Traffic control equipment has long played a crucial role in road safety, with technologies like portable traffic lights, electronic traffic control signs, variable speed signs and IoT and smart sensors common sights on Australia’s roads. These technologies can monitor traffic flow, reducing speed or re-routing drivers when necessary to keep workers, motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and other members of the public safe.
Technology is creating more adaptable traffic control solutions that road users can adapt to more quickly in response to changing traffic conditions. As long-term traffic control professionals, SSTC are experts in road safety and can help you incorporate new traffic control technology into your business plan.
Staying on top of emerging trends is important for success in any industry. However, when these trends enhance the safety of your staff and the public, it becomes even more crucial, especially in high-risk industries like construction. Here are some of the recent developments in technology currently reshaping the traffic control industry:
Intelligent Transportation Systems collect data from a range of sources, such as GPS and traffic sensors, to provide a comprehensive overview of the entire transport network. This data is then transmitted to traffic management centres and sent to road users through numerous channels so they can make informed decisions based on the latest available information.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are allowing traffic control professionals to take a more proactive approach to road safety. These systems use various sources to analyse traffic data in real time, allowing drivers to take swift measures. AI can consolidate both historical and real-time data to analyse patterns, identify incidents and immediately send response personnel, and coordinate whole networks of traffic signals for consistency.
The ‘Internet of Things’ refers to the network of devices, appliances, vehicles and other equipment embedded with sensors and software to exchange data online. The IoT has left its mark on various industries, from home devices to wearable electronics, and it is also driving new technology for traffic control. IoT uses connections between different devices like GPS, sensors and cameras to adjust traffic signals, reduce congestion and even help prevent accidents from occurring. Real-time data is at the core of the strategy, which includes the use of devices like smart traffic lights and adaptive signalling.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) has always been necessary for workers on or near the roads. Wearable technology is equipping PPE like vests and helmets with safety devices such as GPS trackers, LED lights and fall detection sensors. This helps workers stay visible at night-time as well as facilitating faster response times in case of accidents.
Developments in road safety materials have made markings and road signs more visible at night and in other low-light conditions. These materials, such as full cube prismatic sheeting and wet retroflective pavement marking, increase the amount of light the headlights reflect in order to make these markings and signs stand out. Durable enough to withstand harsh environments and rough weather conditions, these materials are affordable, low-maintenance road safety tools.
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication allows the real-time exchange of data between vehicles and other vehicles, pedestrians, cloud networks and infrastructure like traffic lights. This technology allows drivers to receive real-time hazard alerts for traffic jams, road obstacles and accidents ahead. It provides ambulances and other emergency vehicles with the means to communicate with roadside units (RSUs) at intersections, enabling them to navigate a clearer path through traffic congestion.
Electronic traffic control signs have long been a common component in traffic control. Now these devices, which include dynamic message signs and full-colour LED displays, are also benefiting from the latest technological developments. By integrating with AI-powered monitoring and smart traffic management systems, electronic control signs can process data in real-time to provide instant alerts.
Employers have a legal obligation to make sure traffic is appropriately managed around their worksites. Implementing effective traffic control involves a combination of carefully considered planning, quality traffic control equipment and clear communication. The best strategies for improving traffic control around your worksite include:
A traffic management plan outlines the measures and procedures that you’ll put in place to manage traffic during your project. A mandatory document for any project affecting traffic flow on a public road, it typically includes traffic routing, detour plans and safety measures for all road users.
A traffic control plan is the blueprint for putting the TMP into practice. It involves the specific methods, procedures and diagrams necessary to manage traffic flow.
Electronic traffic control signs and other traffic control equipment are essential for enhancing visibility and improving safety on traffic control sites. By embracing innovations in AI and Intelligent Transport Systems, you can provide dynamic traffic control signs with up-to-the-moment information.
It’s important that your approach to the work remains as adaptable as the technology in your traffic control equipment. By making changes to the plan as new information arises and making sure all employees are aware of those changes, you and your team can stay on top of any challenges.
AI, ITS and VX2 all have a role to play in the future of road traffic control. Embracing them in your CTMP helps your business stay at the forefront of site safety.
SSTC covers all aspects of traffic management in Sydney from the beginning to the end of your project. A team with more than 50 years of combined experience, trusted by some of Australia’s largest construction companies, SSTC uses everything in our power, including the latest developments in technology, to ensure the highest level of safety possible.
Our traffic control services include comprehensive traffic management plans, traffic signage installation and maintenance, special event traffic control and emergency response services. Our traffic controllers utilise Utes fully equipped with the latest equipment. Our in-house planning division allows us to provide clients with CTMPs, TCPs, vehicle management plans, swept path diagrams and more. We also use our connections to take the stress out of obtaining permits from the council, police, RMS, STA and more.
Our traffic equipment includes roadwork signs, cones, bollards, concrete barriers and portable traffic signals such as two-way radios. We also have extensive experience installing and maintaining traffic signals, including LED signals, video detection systems and more. From emergency response to special event traffic control, we carry out every form of traffic control to the highest standards of safety. To find out more, contact the SSTC team for a free quote.