There are a number of different types of signs and markers on the roads, so it can be hard to keep up with what all of them mean. There may be signs that you see on a day-to-day basis, and you still aren’t exactly sure what they mean. Black and white roadway object markers are one of those common signs, but they really aren’t difficult to understand. Object markers are designated signs that are specifically used to mark certain obstructions in the roadway or near it, as well as to designate the end of a particular roadway. Each sign has its own place in traffic control, with black and white roadway object markers typically used to advise people of upcoming obstructions or changes in the traffic pattern.
Roadway object markers do exactly what their name implies. They point out important areas of the roadway or things that drivers need to be aware of while they are on the road. The diamond-shaped signs that are either yellow or red with reflective devices, for example, are typically the ones that designate that a roadway is ending. To learn more about exactly why black and white object markers are used and what they signify, keep reading.
What are the Black and White Roadway Object Markers?
Roadway object markers that are black and white in color are typically going to feature a diagonal stripe design that goes from right-to-left or left-to-right, depending on which side of the road the sign is being placed on. These object markers are also made with a chevron design as opposed to the diagonal line design, giving them a distinctive look to point out things straight ahead. There are requirements that the diagonal angle must be at 45 degrees exactly, as well as sizing requirements for the stripes and placement of reflective devices, if used, on these object markers. The best way to maintain compliance is to buy signs from reputable traffic control solutions providers.
Although these markers come in different sizes and styles, there are some standard regulations for traffic control devices, which need to be considered when buying and installing these roadway object markers. They must include a reflective surface and/or a fluorescent coating if they are going to be used in an area where nighttime visibility is a must, which is often why yellow and black object markers are used instead.
These object markers can be used for a variety of situations and are required in a number of them where an obstruction may be on or near the road that drivers need to be made aware of. Although there are some hard-and-fast rules about how these regulatory signs should be used, there are also going to be situations where the need for an object marker will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Ultimately, if the traffic control is going to be improved by an object marker, it’s worth putting in, whether it is required or not.
What are These Markers Used For?
Black and white object markers, specifically, are used to point out potential obstructions or hazards in the road ahead, such as when a highway splits and a lane ends or turns into a barricade. These signs are identified by having no border and only the striped or chevron design to designate the direction of the obstruction in relation to the roadway.
For example, if the obstruction is to the left of the roadway, the diagonal stripes will run from top to bottom, left to right, so that the lines are pointed upward toward the left side of the roadway. The opposite layout will be used for objects or obstructions adjacent to the right side of the road. The chevron is used to designate obstructions that are in the roadway or straight ahead, such as an upcoming low bridge or when a highway divides and cars need to be aware of an upcoming median that is no longer a traffic lane.
These object markers can point out any number of obstructions that may not be actually in the roadway, but close enough that they could be dangerous to traffic. Such is the case with things like underpass bridges, abutments, barricades, handrails, and even utility poles. Culvert headwalls, piers, and even the end of a traffic barrier will also benefit from the placement of these object markers.
In some cases, there may be a need for a warning of conditions where it would be more unsafe than normal for the driver to leave the roadway, even if there isn’t a physical object like a pole or an underpass in the way. For example, if there are narrow shoulders, one-way bridges, gores, or other abrupt changes in the alignment of the roadway, object markers will be required to provide guidance and warning for drivers so that accidents are minimized and people can navigate safely.
Providing Advance Warning
Having the right warning and guidance signs for the roadway can make all the difference in the safe use of the roads by drivers. Even something as simple as a black and white roadway object marker can be a big help on the roads. You do, however, have to ensure that you get the right regulatory signs for all of your projects so that the signs meet compliance standards. There are a variety of conditions and situations that call for object markers, so they may not be as straightforward as other highway signs and traffic control devices. However, they are critical to the safety of the roadway and you need to know how and when to use them for the best outcome.
For all of your warning and guidance sign needs, our traffic control signs can provide exactly what you need. At Worksafe, a leading traffic safety supply company, we have a full inventory of roadway object markers and other traffic control signs and supplies for all of your needs. Our products meet all regulatory guidelines and ensure that you have the safe, reliable traffic control signage that you need. Contact us today or visit our website to learn more.