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What are Channelizers

Channelizers are traffic safety products used to alert and direct traffic through roadwork or away from hazardous areas. They are often the orange plastic molded products that you see lined with reflective sheeting. Plastic channelizers are weighed down by a rubber base, varying in shape, size and function. Different channelizers are often used state to state, based on specific regulations. Additionally, all channelizing products are required to meet the guidelines of the Federal Highway Administration.

Types of Channelizers:

Traffic Drums

Channelizer Drums

In the event of roadwork being done in a high-speed area, you will usually see channelizer drums between the worksite and motorist activity. The size of these drums allows for the largest amount of reflective sheeting, making them easily visible to drivers maneuvering through the area. The flexibility of the drums allows them to easily snap back into shape when they take on any damage.

Vertical Panels

Vertical Panels

Vertical panels are used in a similar manner as barrels, but are seen more often when traffic is divided, when there is limited room, or when state guidelines specifically call for them.  They have become increasingly popular as an alternative to the larger channelizing drums since they are cheaper and easier to transport and store.

DelineatorsDelineators

Delineators are another type of channelizer used to guide vehicles through roadwork or hazardous areas. The tall slim design of delineators allows them to be effectively used between lanes of guided traffic, and easily stored.

  Channelizer Cones

Cones are more often used to channelize traffic in slower moving areas, or alongside smaller roadside projects. Generally cones come available in three sizes: 18 inches high, 28 inches or 36 inches and may sometimes include a handle at the top that makes placing and removing them from the roadway easy.

The Difference Between Channelizers, Barriers and Barricades

While channelizers are used to direct traffic, barriers and barricades are used more to restrict it. Barriers are large, heavy, wall-like structures that are used to physically protect workers from traffic.

The purpose of barricades is not to directly protect workers, but to alert drivers. On the road, Type I and Type II barricades are used in work zones while Type III barricades mark closings.

Although the types and uses of channelizers differs slightly between states, they all serve to alert traffic and protect drivers and workers.

View Channelizers at Traffic Safety Warehouse

Parking Cones - Traffic Cones

Parking Cones

Parking cones, also referred to as traffic cones or road cones come in several sizes and have many uses.  They range from 4  inches to 42 inches in height. The most commonly used parking cone sizes are the 28″ traffic cone and the 12″ traffic cone.  Traffic cones are very durable so they can withstand impact with cars and weather.

Parking cones can be used in construction zones for diverting traffic, for dividing lanes or used as parking devices. For use in construction zones and other traffic control, the 28″ traffic cone is generally the best choice because of their greater height and visibility. For city streets, the minimum acceptable height for traffic cones is 18 inches.

12″ traffic cones which are often used for in parking lots, for marking off play areas for kids, or as temporary barricades in indoor settings.  The smaller cones like 6″ parking cones are often used in sporting events.

Cones that are to be used in night settings must have a reflective collar.

If you have further questions about the proper size or type of traffic cone for your event or job, please contact us.