This paper presents a study on work zones and visual guidance for the driver in road work areas. An analysis of the existing delineation systems and arrangements used in work zones showed that beacons with red and white stripes are in common use. Their task is to reduce speed and to improve the attention of the driver and furthermore to lead the driver through the work zone. In combination these factors lead to a poor visual guidance. The primary aim of this investigation was to optimize visual guidance so that the driver knows at every time in the work zone how to conduct his vehicle. The way to realize this is the following: (1) marking the work zone as a unit; (2) marking the beginning and the end of a work zone; and (3) marking special areas with different shapes, heights, colors and arrangements. The work zone is to be divided into several areas (starting area, definition area, working area and end area). These different areas will be coded by different heights, colors and shapes of their traffic devices. (A)
Abstract