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 XIII. TRANSPORTATION PRODUCTS
A. Temporary Traffic Control Devices
1. Background
EPA proposed designating two types of temporary traffic control devices in the CPG -
traffic cones and traffic barricades (see 59 FR 18874, April 20, 1994). Temporary traffic
control devices are used in a variety of situations where it is necessary to redirect, channel,
or restrict traffic in areas of highway construction or repairs. They may also be used to
mark a road hazard that may exist in the way of traffic. For purposes of controlling traffic,
such devices must be stable and clearly visible. Traffic cones must be able to withstand
impact without damage to themselves or to vehicles. In addition, temporary traffic control
devices must be manageable by work crews responsible for transporting, handling, and
storing them. Definitions, applications, and requirements for traffic control devices are
found in the "Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices" (MUTCD), which is published
by the Federal Highway Administration.
a. Traffic cones. Traffic cones are conical in shape with a broadened and weighted
base, making them able to withstand significant wind gusts without tipping or blowing away.
In order to be able to withstand an impact without damaging a vehicle, the upper component
of a traffic cone is typically made from LDPE or PVC plastic. The lower component of a
traffic cone is typically made from a rubber or plastic material capable of providing ballast
and friction with the surface of the roadway. Typical applications for traffic cones are
described in section 6C-4 of the MUTCD.
EPA identified several manufacturers and distributors of traffic cones containing
postconsumer LDPE and PVC materials, as well as crumb rubber from scrap tires. In
general, both recovered and postconsumer recovered plastics are used in the upper
component of the cones, and crumb rubber and/or plastics are used in the base.
b. Traffic barricades. There are three types of traffic barricades: Type I, Type II, or
Type III. Type I or Type II barricades are intended for use in situations where traffic is
maintained through an area being constructed and/or reconstructed. Type III barricades are
used when a road section is to be closed-off to traffic. Applications for traffic barriers are
described in section 6C-9 of the MUTCD.
Traffic barricades are typically made from wood, steel, plastic, or a combination of
these materials. The traditional design of the barricades typically involves the use of steel in
the supporting frame and wood in the cross rails. In past years, many manufacturers of
traffic barricades have shifted to the use of recovered materials in both the supporting frame
and rails of the barricades. Manufacturers are able use recovered materials to manufacture
the housing and lenses used in lighting devices affixed to the barricades as well.
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