Countermeasures to Reduce Truck-Mounted Attenuator (TMA) Crashes: A State-of-the-Art Review

Abstract

To support worker and driver safety, this study conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify methods of enhancing TMA visibility, improving work zone configurations, and ensuring worker safety. To increase TMA recognition, this study observed that the use of a 6-to-8-inch wide yellow and black inverted ‘V’ pattern of retroreflective chevron markings, sloped at a 45-degree angle downward in both directions from the upper center of a rear panel is effective in alerting drivers to work zones. This study also recommends applying amber and white warning LEDs, which flash in an asynchronous pattern at a 1 Hz frequency and are mounted against a solid-colored background for a 360-degree view visible at least 1500 feet from the work zone. In addition, a work zone vehicle configuration consisting of a lead, buffer, and advance warning truck with a buffer space between 100 and 150 ft is suggested to reduce the risk of lateral intrusions and TMA roll-ahead. In parallel, workers should wear high-visibility vests noticeable at a minimum distance of 1000 feet and headwear with at least 10 square inches of retroreflective material. Some intelligent transport systems are also suggested to enhance TMA recognition and potentially minimize work zone fatalities. Application of the recommended guidelines will potentially improve current practices and significantly reduce the occurrence of TMA crashes in construction and maintenance work zones.

Toward AI-enabled augmented reality to enhance the safety of highway work zones: Feasibility, requirements, and challenges

“…However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all intrusions originate from the front of the work zone; scenarios involving sudden swerving or lateral intrusions offer even less reaction time. These types of intrusions are often among the most hazardous and can result in fatal incidents within work zones [86].…”

Nature of Occupational Incidents among Roofing Contractors: A Data Mining Approach

“…The dynamic nature and environmental exposure of operations make the construction industry one of the most dangerous industries [1][2][3]. Attributes ranging from the variable composition of work crews to unobserved safety regulations and the type of work performed all combine to make preventing occupational accidents in construction a real challenge [4].…”

A Simulation Study of Passing Drivers' Responses to the Automated Truck-Mounted Attenuator System in Road Maintenance

“…Compared to a stationary work zone, more factors would influence the safety of a moving work zone, such as the work zone moving speed, the position on the road, and the traffic condition [11]. Truck-Mounted Attenuator (TMA) has been adopted to enhance the visibility of work zones to passing vehicles, inform them to change to a work-free lane, and protect workers and equipment at the work zones from rear-end crashes [23]. TMAs have made positive contributions to safety enhancement, saving about $23,000 per crash [13].…”

“…TMAs have made positive contributions to safety enhancement, saving about $23,000 per crash [13]. 23 States that adopted TMAs believe that TMAs are very effective [36]. However, drivers of shadow vehicles are still likely to get hurt because they stress about being hit and are inevitably in danger of collisions.…”