MOT Traffic Control Devices & Placement Standards 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a termination area (END ROAD WORK) in a temporary traffic control zone?
- To increase vehicle speeds back to normal
- To inform road users that they are leaving the work zone and normal conditions are returning (Correct answer)
- To allow construction vehicles to re-enter the roadway
- To mark the beginning of the buffer space
Correct answer: To inform road users that they are leaving the work zone and normal conditions are returning
The termination area informs road users that they are exiting the temporary traffic control zone and normal roadway conditions resume.
Question 2: Portable changeable message signs (PCMS) in work zones should be placed at a minimum of how far in advance of the activity area on a 65 mph road?
- 500 feet
- 1,000 feet
- 1,500 feet (Correct answer)
- 2,640 feet
Correct answer: 1,500 feet
On roads with 65 mph speeds, PCMS units should be placed at least 1,500 feet in advance of the activity area to give drivers adequate response time.
Question 3: Which of the following correctly describes the function of a buffer space in a TTC zone?
- An area for construction equipment storage
- A distance that separates traffic from the work space and provides recovery room (Correct answer)
- The transition area where lanes merge
- The zone where flaggers are stationed
Correct answer: A distance that separates traffic from the work space and provides recovery room
The buffer space is a longitudinal and lateral safety zone between traffic and the work space, providing protection for workers and errant vehicles.
Question 4: What minimum height must the bottom of a sign panel be placed above the nearest road surface when mounted on a temporary post in a work zone?
- 3 feet
- 5 feet (Correct answer)
- 7 feet
- 9 feet
Correct answer: 5 feet
Temporary work zone signs on posts must have their bottom edge at least 5 feet above the road surface per MUTCD mounting requirements.
Question 5: When two flaggers are used to control traffic through a single-lane, two-way section, they must:
- Work independently using only stop/slow paddles
- Be able to communicate with each other, directly or by radio (Correct answer)
- Stand at least 500 feet apart at all times
- Alternate shifts every 30 minutes without overlap
Correct answer: Be able to communicate with each other, directly or by radio
Two flaggers controlling opposing traffic must be able to communicate directly or by radio to safely coordinate the release of traffic.
Question 6: Which device is used to physically close a lane to vehicular traffic and is NOT typically used as an advance warning device?
- Channelizing cone
- Drum (barrel)
- Vertical panel
- Glare screen (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Glare screen
Glare screens are used to shield drivers from oncoming headlights and are not channelizing or advance warning devices.
Question 7: A road user cost analysis in a work zone Traffic Management Plan (TMP) is primarily concerned with:
- Reducing contractor profit margins
- Minimizing delay and economic impact on motorists and freight (Correct answer)
- Scheduling worker breaks during peak hours
- Choosing the cheapest sign materials
Correct answer: Minimizing delay and economic impact on motorists and freight
Road user cost analysis evaluates delays, fuel consumption, and economic impact to motorists and freight carriers caused by work zone activities.
MOT Traffic Control Devices & Placement Standards 3
What is the primary purpose of a termination area (END ROAD WORK) in a temporary traffic control zone?