ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE THE VISIBILITY OF RAILROAD-HIGHWAY CROSSING SIGNALS

The purpose of this project is to investigate alternative ways to improve the visibility and conspicuity of flashing signal lights at over 51,000 railroad-highway crossings, protected with flashing lights or flashing lights and gates. This purpose is transposed into a scope of work by means of the following objectives: 1) To analyze and evaluate current signal specifications, practice, and equipment, and to document their evolution and bases; 2) To develop performance specifications for improved signal light dispersion and intensity; 3) To develop, analyze and evaluate various alternative methods of obtaining improved light dispersion and intensity, within the existing railroad-highway crossing signal system, in order to improve the visibility and conspicuity of the signals; 4) To determine the hardware modifications or accessories needed to improve the visibility of existing signals; and 5) To construct and test a prototype of the proposed modification. This interim report presents the findings of objective one by means of examining the history, development and comparison of railroad crossing and traffic signals, a discussion of related public lighting, comparison between railroad crossing signals and traffic signals, and the comparison of railroad crossing signals and traffic signals with the basic human visual capabilities. The development of this material is based upon a literature review and contact with agencies and organizations involved with each signalling system. (FHWA)

• Corporate Authors:

  Allard, Incorporated

  P.O. Drawer 3
  Ellsworth, KS  United States  67439

  Federal Highway Administration

  Office of Research, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Plinsky, R
  • Bennett, C R
  • Miley
  • Mather, R
  • Manes, R
  • Russell, E
• Publication Date: 1982-4

Media Info

• Pagination: n.p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Alternatives analysis; Fire vehicles; Human factors; Improvements; Railroad grade crossings; Specifications; Traffic signals; Visibility
• Subject Areas: Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Railroads; Safety and Human Factors; I73: Traffic Control;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00385314
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA-RD-81-168 Intrm Rpt.
• Contract Numbers: DTFH61-81-C-00059
• Files: TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Jun 28 2003 12:00AM