What must be considered when placing temporary traffic control devices?

When placing temporary traffic control devices, visibility and accessibility are critical factors to ensure the safety of both drivers and workers. Ensuring that these devices are highly visible helps to alert drivers to changes in traffic patterns or to the presence of roadwork, thus reducing the likelihood of accidents. This includes using appropriate colors, sizes, and reflective materials that can be seen in various weather and lighting conditions.

Accessibility is equally important as it ensures that all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, can navigate safely through or around the work zone. Temporary devices should be placed in a way that does not obstruct the flow of traffic or impede access for those requiring special accommodations.

While other factors such as cost, material type, and the specific location of workers may be relevant in the overall planning of a traffic control strategy, they do not take precedence over the need for visibility and accessibility. Without these elements, even the best-designed temporary traffic control devices can fail to maintain safety and efficiency in traffic management.