UK-based developer of portable variable message signs (VMS) and temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions MVIS (Mobile Visual Information Systems) and its sister company Bartco UK have launched two new work zone safety systems.
Since its launch in 2012, MVIS has worked in partnership with the UK’s major highway construction firms to help ensure that they operate safely. The company has just launched the world’s first temporary ITS solution to combine modular electronic perimeters and VMS to promote the safety of construction personnel and road users around the exit points of roadside work zones. The high impact Works Egress Safety Solution targets both highways and work zone traffic and as such, presents a superior alternative to the standard fixed-plate signs used to communicate with highways traffic only. The new product has been released in anticipation of the likely increase in the work zone speed limit, which has the potential to raise the risk of accidents as works vehicles approach and join the carriageway more quickly.
A pair of sensors are located at the beginning of the acceleration zone within the works area. They connect to one of the company’s HD Compact VMS deployed within the zone, and, when triggered by an approaching works vehicle, the VMS message changes from ‘wait here’ to ‘merge when safe’. The sensors also connect to a roadside, traffic-facing VMS-A trailer-mounted signage unit, and warn highways road users of the imminent arrival of a works vehicle joining the carriageway. In the event of an emergency, the VMS ‘works traffic merging’ message can be overridden with an alternative message. All messages can be tailored to the precise requirements of the site, and every message activation is recorded and may be reviewed for audit purposes. The product was developed and manufactured by MVIS sister company Bartco UK.
In response to customer demand, the two companies have also launched a brand new safety solution, which they believe to be the most reliable and easily installed on the market. The new Overhead Service Unit protects the safety of highways construction personnel by warning them of overhead structures, including those where work is underway, and is the first to feature in-built radar as opposed to separate sensors, which can accidently reposition after installation. The cost-effective solution created by Bartco UK, uses the in-built radar to activate an HD Compact VMS message when a vehicle is detected approaching the structure above a given speed, removing the risk of accidental repositioning while minimizing the amount of equipment required.
The Overhead Services Unit features a compact 27 x 31inches (68 x 78cm) sign case and 28×28 pixel red and white LEDs for text and pictogram messages. The HD Compact VMS frame features high-visibility chevrons to ensure that it is easily spotted by construction workers, and the unit can run for up to four weeks using just three 100AH batteries.
