Where to Use Traffic Cones

Traffic Cones along the side of the road or highway might seem random if you have ever seen them in the past. Perhaps you've even seen construction workers putting them in place. Nevertheless, the type of traffic cones and the size is important for various situations. It is always important to be visible. While you want the cones to be visible on highways and streets, you also want them to be visible in minor outdoor and indoor settings while not creating too much of an obstruction. As cones come in designated sizes and weights, having the appropriate ones for the setting is necessary.

The most common use for traffic cones is by a street or highway. These particular sizes are in the large to medium range. Cones that are 28 inches high and seven pounds are needed for street visibility. The next level up, highways, need cones that are either 28 or 36 inches tall and ten pounds. Alternatively, if only a lightweight cone is available, such as a seven-pound cone from local streets, this can be weighted with sandbags or a heavier stand and used instead. Anything else larger than 36 inches and 10 pounds, additionally, calls for a traffic barrel, which, too, is orange and with reflective strips.

It is not always necessary to place traffic cones on highways or streets. In many cases, they're used much like barriers indoors. Is there a path for pedestrians that needs to be indicated? Line smaller cones along the sidewalk or inside of a building. The cones needed in this case are 12 inches tall and weigh 1.5 pounds, as well as 18 inches tall and weigh 3 pounds. If you need something smaller, miniature cones, in sizes not regulated by the MUTCD, can be purchased for your needs.

The MUTCD, by the US Federal Highway Administration, lists all the regulations regarding Heavy Duty Road Cones. As well as the size, the cones must be in a visible color. Outdoors, for example, often means orange, while fluorescent green and blue are also appropriate for indoor use.