TRAFFIC INCIDENT MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE WORK ZONES

5.0 INCIDENT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND TECHNIQUES FOR USE IN WORK ZONES

Many strategies and techniques exist for improving incident management in work zones. These strategies are all designed to reduce the severity of the capacity reduction, reduce the duration of the incident, or reduce the amount of traffic wanting to use the facility in and around the incident scene. This section briefly describes various incident management strategies and techniques that can be deployed in work zones. The strategies and techniques are grouped according to the following categories:

• Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Detection in Work Zones
• Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Response
• Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Clearance
• Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Site Management
• Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Information Dissemination

This section is intended to be a reference for work zone planners, traffic operators, and incident responders in developing or improving incident management in their own specific work zones. Many of the strategies and techniques are the same techniques that are commonly used in incident management programs outside of work zones. Agencies should review the strategies and techniques shown in Table 4 through Table 9 to get an idea of options that can be deployed in their area. The tables provide a brief description of the strategy or technique and list some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with each. Each strategy and technique also provides a listing of online references which can be accessed to obtain more detailed information about when, where, why, and how the strategy can be deployed. With the information, work zone planners, traffic operations, and incident responders can devise an incident management program that fits the specifics of their own individual work zones.

Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Detection in Work Zones

Incident detection is the process by which incidents are brought to the attention of the agencies responsible for clearing incidents from travel lanes. 17 Table 4 lists some of the common strategies that incident managers use to improve the time require to detect and clear an incident. All of these strategies are applicable to work zones.

Table 4. Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Clearance in Work Zones

Strategies	Description	Pros	Cons	For More Information
Roving Courtesy / Service Patrols	This strategy involves the use of specially equipped vehicle to provide emergency repairs and rapid clearance of stalled or disabled vehicles from the roadway. Vehicles can be either pre-positioned at strategic locations or rove in traffic stream.	Permits rapid detection and clearance of minor incidents Provides assistance and minor repairs for stalled/disabled vehicles Provides positive public relations image for agency Can provide traffic control for emergency responders Service can be contracted to private provider	When patrol is busy with event, it cannot rapidly respond to secondary incident that may occur Requires specially equipped vehicles Operators may require special training and certification Congestion in work zone may prevent patrol from rapidly reaching incident	Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Case Study (1) Freeway Service Patrols: About FSP (2) Benefits Analysis for the Georgia Department of Transportation NaviGAtor Program: Final Report (3)
Closed-Circuit Television / Video Surveillance Cameras	This strategy involves the use of closed-circuit television or video surveillance cameras to assist in rapid detection and verification of incident location and severity through visual inspections. Cameras are generally installed on poles adjacent to the roadway and images are sent to a TMC. Operators in the TMC can use pan, tilt, and zoom features to observe different aspects of the incident.	Allows visual detection and confirmation of incident location and severity prior to initiating response Allows assessment of impacts of incidents on traffic operations Allows operators in control center to adjust operational strategies as incident conditions change Support infrastructure (conduit, poles, foundations, etc.) can be installed as part of construction process	Requires an individual to monitor video surveillance cameras, usually at a traffic management center Cameras and communications infrastructure may need to be relocated as construction phasing progresses Requires special technical skills to keep camera and communications system operational Can be costly to install and maintain during life of construction project.	Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Case Study (1) Vehicle Detector Clearinghouse (4)
Stationary Observers	This involves the use of specially trained spotters or observers who can provide information about incident locations via radio or cell phone to TMC or other emergency dispatch center.	Volunteers can be used as observers Observers can be relocated as construction phasing progresses	Must contact someone else to initiate clearance functions Volunteer may not always be dependable May require special agency personnel to manage observers	Guidelines for Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (5) Traffic Incident Management Handbook (6)
Aerial Surveillance	This strategy involves the use of fixed-winged aircraft or helicopters to detect and verify incident locations. Observer in aircraft generally reports locations to TMC	Service can be provided by private entity (such as a traffic reporting service)	Extremely costly to provide continued surveillance Surveillance may not be possible due to poor weather conditions or at night	Guidelines for Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (5) Traffic Incident Management Handbook (6)
Traveler Call-in / Reporting Numbers	This strategy involves establishing a special telephone call-in number that motorists can use to report traffic incidents. Generally, requires a toll-free number	Can be incorporated as part of construction related information dissemination / 511 system Allows motorists to communicate directly with highway agency Can be contracted to private entity	Most motorist are likely to use E911 services to report incidents Motorists may have difficulty remembering special call-in number May require specially trained call takers	Guidelines for Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (5) Traffic Incident Management Handbook (6)
ITS Traffic Sensors	This strategy involves the use of traditional traffic detection and sensing technologies (such a loop detectors, radar detectors, video image detection system, etc.) to monitor traffic flow characteristics. Usually requires the use of automatic detection algorithms to locate incidents	Transportation operators generally familiar with technology and techniques Sensors can remain in place after construction has ended	Detection algorithms prone to high false alarm rates and slow detection times, especially in highly congested locations Sensors may need to be pre-positioned or retuned when different lane closures required Requires TMC/Traffic Operations Center (TOC)	FHWA’s Traffic Detector Handbook (7,8)
Agency or Transit Probe Vehicles	This strategy involves the use of public and/or private agency personnel that routinely travel through construction area to report incident locations. This could include transit and motor carriers, fleet operators, public work crews, taxicabs, etc.	Operators generally know importance of rapid reporting of incident location	Depends on willingness of vehicle operator to report incident Operators must know who to contact and what information to report about incident	FHWA’s Freeway Management and Operation Handbook (9)
Improved Milepost Markers / Location Referencing System	This strategy involves improving or augmenting the traditional milepost marking system to allow incident response personnel and citizens more accurate information. This can be accomplished by spacing markers more closely (e.g. tenth of a mile on freeways) or improving visibility of markers (e.g., oversizing).	Improves communication between citizens and response personnel Relatively inexpensive Provides motorists with location information for getting help quickly Helpful in managing traffic records and subsequent analysis	May be difficult to keep signs visible /clean during construction activities Signs subject to damage during construction activity	Guidelines for Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (5) Guidebook on Incident Management Planning in Work Zones (10)

Online Resources:

1. Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Case Study. Available at http://www.itsdocs.fhwa.dot.gov//JPODOCS/REPTS_TE//13600.htm
2. Freeway Service Patrols: About FSP Available at http://www.metro.net/projects_programs/fsp/about_fsp.htm
3. Benefits Analysis for the Georgia Department of Transportation NaviGAtor Program: Final Report. Available at http://www.itsbenefits.its.dot.gov/its/benecost.nsf/ID/D8FFBF887F1DF9028525733A006D5A4E?OpenDocument&Query=BApp
4. http://www.nmsu.edu/~traffic/
5. Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management Plans for Work Zones. Available at http://www.dot.state.co.us/Traffic_Manuals_Guidelines/incident_management_guidelines/incident_management_guidelines_20030919.pdf
6. Traffic Incident Management Handbook. November 2000. Available at http://www.iacptechnology.org/IncidentManagement/TrafficIncidentMgmtHandbook.pdf
7. Traffic Detector Handbook: Third Edition–Volume I. Report No. FHWA-HRT-06-108. Federal Highway Administration. October 2006. Available at https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/operations/its/06108/index.cfm
8. Traffic Detector Handbook: Third Edition–Volume II. Report No. FHWA-HRT-06-139. Federal Highway Administration. October 2006. Available at https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/operations/its/06139/index.cfm
9. Freeway Management and Operations Handbook. Report No. FHWA-OP-04-003. Federal Highway Administration. 2004. Available at https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freewaymgmt/publications/frwy_mgmt_handbook/
10. Guidebook on Incident Management Planning in Work Zones. Available at http://www.ctre.iastate.edu/smartwz/reports/swzdi-2005-horowitz-guidebook-incident-mgmt.pdf

Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Response

Table 5 lists some of the strategies and techniques that work zone planners and incident responders can employ to improve incident responses within work zones.

Table 5. Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Response in Work Zones

Strategies and Techniques	Description	Pros	Cons	For More Information
Dedicated Response Vehicles / Service Patrol	This strategy can use specially equipped vehicles or courtesy / service patrols to respond to and clear incidents. This can be roving vehicles or prepositioned vehicles. These vehicles should be dedicated to providing assistance in the work zone area only.	Vehicles can be prepositioned in corridor near high incident locations Services can be provided by contractor or state/local agency	Service patrol dedicated to construction project may not be able to respond to incident outside project boundaries Agency asset may sit idle for extended periods of time	CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual (1)
Incident Response Teams	This strategy involves establishing a multi-agency team for the purposes of responding specifically to incidents. Members of the team should include representatives from the major incident responders in the area, including law enforcement, fire, emergency responders, etc. These individuals should be trained in National Incident Command System/ Unified Command procedures.	Can build upon ICS principles Incident responses are developed collaboratively Multi-disciplinary approach Streamlines site management and incident responses	Should not duplicate or replace ICS Need champion from all response agencies	Simplified Guide to Incident Command System for Transportation Professionals (2) CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual (1)
Communication Protocols(SAFECOM)	This strategy involves establishing a common, predetermined radio frequency that response agencies can use to communicate during incidents. This could also include developing lists of agency channel access, and establishing interagency communications protocols.	Facilitates interagency communications Radio frequencies can be placed in incident response/action plan	Frequency list may become outdated as system gets replaced May require purchase of new technology to achieve interoperability	SAFECOM Web site (3) NTIMC’s Prompt, Reliable Traffic Incident Communications(4) CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual (1)
Incident Response Manuals	This strategy involves developing a manual that outlines the predetermined processes and procedures for how to respond to specific incident situations. Manual might include the roles and responsibilities of responders for different “levels” of incidents.	Different responses can be established for each phase of the construction project Provide single source of information for all incident response procedures and policies Facilitate dissemination of information to other response providers	Not possible to include response for every type of incident situation May be difficult to keep up-to-date as work zone phasing progresses May be difficult to keep contact information current Requires training to “practice” incident response scenarios prior to construction	CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual (1)
Emergency Personnel Resource List	This strategy involves generating a list of available and trained personnel from all of the response agencies. Information should include geographic or jurisdictional response areas, responsibilities, radio channels, or cell phone numbers.	Facilitates cooperation and communication among response agencies May already exist in many urban areas	Needs to be updated frequently to ensure accuracy May need to include multiple contacts from agencies to ensure that agency can be reached	CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual (1)
Equipment and Material Resource Lists	This strategy involves preparing comprehensive lists of equipment and material resources that agencies might need in response to incidents. List should not only include equipment and material but contact information of individual responsible for equipment.	In many construction areas, heavy equipment may already be on site to assist with clearance activities	Difficult to keep list accurate over time Equipment may not always be available if used for other purposes	CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual (1)
Emergency Flashers / Flashing Light Policy	This strategy involves developing a policy concerning the use of emergency flashers and flashing lights on response vehicles that are already on-scene. Use of emergency flashers, particularly at night, can add to driver confusion at an incident scene.	Good traffic control and advance warning signs can allow public safety agencies to perform tasks on scene with minimal emergency vehicle lighting Reduces the potential for secondary collisions / incidents by reducing driver confusion	Some emergency responders may be hesitant to follow policy	FHWA’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (5)

Online Resources:

1. TREX Incident Response Manual. Colorado Department of Transportation. Available at http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/523/documents/1ManualOctober2002.pdf
2. Simplified Guide to Incident Command System for Transportation Professionals. Available athttps://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/ics_guide/
3. Department of Homeland Security’s SAFECOM Web site. Available at http://www.safecomprogram.gov/SAFECOM/  
4. NTIMC’s Prompt, Reliable Traffic Incident Communications. Available at http://www.transportation.org/sites/ntimc/docs/Incident%20Communications11-16-06-v3.pdf
5. Chapter 6I. Control of Traffic Through Traffic Incident Management Areas. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Available at https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/HTM/2003r1/part6/part6i.htm

Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Clearance

Another method to reduce the impact of incidents in work zones is to implement strategies that provide for the rapid clearance of incidents once they occur. Table 6 lists several common strategies for improving incident clearance in work zones.

Table 6. Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Clearance in Work Zones

Strategy	Description	Pros	Cons	For More Information
“Move-It” Laws/ Quick Clearance Policies	This strategy involves enacting legislation requiring vehicles that can safely and physically move from the travel lane to do so	Encourages quick removal of minor incidents. Empowers traffic and public safety responders to move any disabled vehicle from travel lane Indemnifies responders for liability.	Motor carriers may oppose because of potential losses associated with recovering cargo and/or vehicle Responders may be hesitant to move vehicles off roadway because of fear of liability issues Requires public awareness campaign to educate public about laws/policies	NTIMC’s Safe, Quick Clearance (1) NCHRP’s Safe and Quick Clearance of Traffic Incidents (2)
Wrecker Contracts	This strategy involves the use of special and/or incentive contracts with wrecker services to provide guaranteed response and clearance times	Response /clearance time “guaranteed” by contract	May meet opposition from some local wrecker services. Requires more structured accounting/reporting to collect response/clearance times performance measures	Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise Takes Proactive ‘RISC’ in Incident Management (3) City of Houston’s SAFEClear Program (4)
Photogrammetry	This strategy involves using photographs and special software to conduct measurements of a vehicle crash scene	Reduces time required to complete crash investigation Photographs provide permanent record of incident scene Most measurement and calculation performed in office Scene can be marked then opened for traffic	Many crash investigators not familiar with technology. Requires special training to utilize equipment Equipment costs more than traditional measuring devices, but less than total station	Use of Photogrammetry for Investigation of Traffic Incident Scenes (5)
Total Station Surveying Equipment	This strategy involves using computerized surveying equipment (total stations) to conduct measurements of a vehicle crash scene	Accident investigation can be completed in less time and with more accuracy than traditional measurement techniques	Some agencies report longer clearance times because investigators take more measurements than with usual investigation techniques Specialized training and equipment is required Limited number of devices and qualified personnel may result in longer response times	Incident Management Using Total Stations (6)
Push Bumpers	This strategy involves equipping police, service patrols, and /or specialized vehicles with special bumpers that allow them to push disabled vehicles from the travel lane	Disabled vehicles can be moved quickly from travel lanes to side of road or refuge area. Relatively low-cost.	Some agencies concerned about potential damage to pushed vehicles Differences in vehicle heights may make pushing some vehicles difficult	Guidelines for Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (7) Traffic Incident Management Handbook (8)
Dedicated Freeway/ Service Patrols	This strategy involves using specially marked and equipped vehicles to patrol designated sections of roadway to clear disabled vehicles from roadways and provide motorist assistance	Permits rapid removal and clearance of minor incidents Results in positive public image for agency Can be a contracted service with privately owned and operated wrecker	May meet opposition from local towing and recovery companies No standardization as to how they should operate	Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Case Study (9) Freeway Service Patrols: About FSP (10) Benefits Analysis for the Georgia Department of Transportation NaviGAtor Program: Final Report (11)
Landing Zone Guidelines	This strategy involves designating pre-determined landing site for medical evacuation/air ambulance helicopters	Landing locations agreed upon by incident providers prior to need Locations can be referred in incident management response/action plan	Special maintenance may be required to keep area free of debris and construction equipment/ supplies May require transport of victims to landing area	Guidelines for Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (7)

Online Resources:

1. Safe, Quick Clearance. National Traffic Incident Management Coalition, 2006. Available at http://www.transportation.org/sites/ntimc/docs/Quick%20Clearance11-07-06v2.pdf
2. Safe and Quick Clearance of Traffic Incidents. NCHRP Synthesis 318. Transportation Research Board. 2003. Available at http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_syn_318.pdf
3. Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise Takes Proactive ‘RISC’ in Incident Management. Available at http://www.floridaits.com/Newsletters/2005/May/05-2005.htm#RISC
4. SAFEClear Program. City of Houston Web site. Available at (http://www.houstontx.gov/safeclear/index.htm)
5. Use of Photogrammetry for Investigation of Traffic Incident Scenes. Report No 4907-2. Texas Transportation Institute. Available at http://tti.tamu.edu/documents/4907-2.pdf
6. Incident Management Using Total Stations. Available at http://www.itsbenefits.its.dot.gov/its/benecost.nsf/ID/0D0D8496BCC0EF69852569E700716FB3?OpenDocument&Query=BApp
7. Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management Plans for Work Zones. Available at http://www.dot.state.co.us/Traffic_Manuals_Guidelines/incident_management_guidelines/incident_management_guidelines_20030919.pdf
8. Traffic Incident Management Handbook. November 2000. Available at http://www.iacptechnology.org/IncidentManagement/TrafficIncidentMgmtHandbook.pdf
9. Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Case Study. Available at http://www.itsdocs.fhwa.dot.gov//JPODOCS/REPTS_TE//13600.htm
10. Freeway Service Patrols: About FSP Available at http://www.metro.net/projects_programs/fsp/about_fsp.htm
11. Benefits Analysis for the Georgia Department of Transportation NaviGAtor Program: Final Report. Available at http://www.itsbenefits.its.dot.gov/its/benecost.nsf/ID/D8FFBF887F1DF9028525733A006D5A4E?OpenDocument&Query=BApp

Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Site Management

Dealing with incident site management issues within a work zone presents a special challenge to work zone planners and incident responders. In some work zones, pavement and shoulder widths have already been reduced, and barriers have been installed to separate work zone activities from the normal traffic lanes. All these factors make it more difficult for responders to work incidents that occur in and around work zones. Table 7 lists some of the site management strategies and techniques that work zone planners and incident responders can employ to mitigate the impacts of incidents

Table 7. Site Management Strategies and Techniques in Work Zones

Strategies and Techniques	Description	Pros	Cons	For More Information
Alternate Route Plans	This strategy involves pre-determining available routes for detouring traffic during long-term incidents.	Removal of traffic demand from impacted roadway Permits easier access to site by emergency response personnel Develops collectively and cooperatively with other stakeholders Diverts traffic to routes that can accommodate demands Detours traffic around sensitive areas (such as schools, hospitals, etc.)	Alternate routing for incidents may already be utilized around construction project Requires extensive pre-planning to execute Requires agencies to have resources available to implement Secondary alternate routes may be required to provide detouring of primary construction alternate route Applies to long-term incidents only	FHWA’s Alternate Route Handbook (1)
Emergency Turnarounds / Access Gates	This strategy involves including median breaks and shoulder access to allow emergency responders and highway operations personnel to turnaround between interchanges. This might also include installing access gates in median barriers that can be opened by response personnel to permit access to travel lanes through the construction area or from the opposite direction.	Allows incident responders to access incident scene from opposite direction Shortens travel time of responders to scene May permit removal of incident debris to inside construction area for later removal	Non-emergency traffic may be tempted to use if no physical barrier is provided May slow initial responders if they have to remove physical barrier or gate to access site	AASHTO’s Roadside Design Guide(2) AASHTO’s A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets (3)
Alternative Emergency Response Access Routes	This strategy involves identifying and establishing procedures that emergency response vehicles can use to reach the scene of an incident inside the work zone, get to another emergency once inside the work zone, and to leave the incident scene from within the work zone. This should also include identifying alternate routes to treatment facilities once clear of the work zone.	Allows emergency vehicles to access to scene quickly	May require real-time adjustment if alternate route is congested	Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management Plans for Work Zones (4)
Predefined Staging Areas	This strategy involves establishing or setting aside a specific area in or around a work zone where response vehicles and personnel can safely wait away from the immediate incident scene. Special staging areas can also be set aside for media.	Provides a common area or “rally point” for responders Provides a safe waiting area for storing response vehicles Can be used to separate media from the emergency response areas and can be used to keep media clear of the incident scene to ensure their safety and the safety of the responders. Can be located outside of construction area or off roadway facility	May be difficult to locate staging area in some tight construction zones Used only with large scale incidents	TREX Incident Response Manual (5) Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management Plans for Work Zones (4) Traffic Incident Management Handbook (6)
Refuge Areas	This strategy involves constructing pullouts or other small refuge areas adjacent to the travel lanes where motorists can travel (or be pushed) to affect minor repairs to their vehicle (e.g., change flat tire, etc.).	Provides a safe refuge out of travel lane where minor repairs can be performed Provides refuge area where disabled vehicles can be pushed to Important when the shoulders are used as travel lanes through the construction area.	May require construction of all-weather surface May be difficult to locate in limited work zone area May be difficult to access at high traffic speeds	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (6)
Accident Investigation Sites	This strategy involves establishing locations near or adjacent to the freeway, where vehicles and emergency responders can go, out of the way of traffic, to complete an accident investigation. These areas need to be identified in advance and adequate space must be provided for movable vehicles and investigation personnel. These can be designed with screening devices to further reduce the impacts of “rubbernecking.” These locations are subject to change as construction phasing progresses.	Provides an established area for relocating damaged or disabled vehicles Could potentially serve as staging area of other incident responders	May require construction of improved area Area must be large enough to accommodate 3 to 4 vehicles Requires installation of signs directing motorists to site	TREX Incident Response Manual (5) FDOT’s Accident Investigation Sites Criteria (7) iROX I-75 Road Expansion Project (8)
Shoulder Usage Policies	This strategy involves establishing procedures and criteria for when a paved shoulder can be used by response personnel and when a shoulder can be used as an alternate travel lane during incident conditions. Procedures need to address how shoulder usage may impact ramps and interchanges.	Maximizes the utilization of paved surfaces to move traffic Increases roadway capacity	May not always be possible when work zones utilize shoulders as travel lanes Operational problems may exist at ramps and interchanges Shoulders are no longer available as refuge areas for disabled vehicles Shoulders may not be wide enough to accommodate travel lane Shoulder pavement may not be designed to accommodate vehicle loads	FHWA’s Freeway Management and Operations Handbook(9)
Incremental Lane Opening Guidelines	This strategy involves developing guidelines for quickly opening lanes, as they become available and safe to travel on.	Keeps duration of lane closures to minimum required to complete response activity Maintains traffic flow past incident scene	Some incident responders may be hesitant to open and close lanes multiple times May increase tendency for secondary incidents	FHWA’s Freeway Management and Operations Handbook (9)
Reopening Work Zone Lanes	This strategy involves establishing procedures and guidelines for quickly opening lanes, as they become available and safe to travel on. Depending upon the circumstances, this may mean postponing a work zone related lane closure if an incident condition already exists, or terminating a work zone related lane closure early, if possible, to provide improved capacity	Restores roadway capacity potential to pre-construction levels	Only feasible when temporary lane closures have been deployed as part of construction activity Depends on the type of work activity Agency may need to perform an additional lane closures at another time to complete work activity	TREX Incident Response Manual (5)
Equipment Storage Sites	This strategy involves establishing a secured area near the work zone where incident response equipment can be stored to facilitate incident removal. This might include temporary incident management signing (as specified in Chapter 6I. of the MUTCD), portable dynamic message signs, vehicles with push bumpers, heavy lifting vehicle, inflatable air bag systems, etc.	Equipment readily accessible to responders Results in quicker response times to incident scene within construction area	May result in longer response times if equipment needed at incident scene is NOT in close proximity to work zone Requires a secure storage area in close proximity to work zone Equipment would need to be routinely checked to ensure that it is functioning properly Requires inventory control procedures	FHWA’s Traffic Incident Management Program: Responder and Motorist Safety Web site (10)
Traffic Responsive Signal Control Plans	This strategy involves using pre-established traffic signal control plans that can be implemented on alternative routes in response to changing traffic conditions	Signal timing plans adjust automatically to changing traffic conditions Reduces the need for law enforcement officers to manually operate traffic signals at intersections	Requires surveillance technologies on alternate routes Signal plan may not fully cover total range of potential incident conditions May require upgrade of existing traffic signal control equipment
Restrictive Ramp Metering Timings	This strategy involves using existing ramp meter signals to control vehicle access to the freeway. This strategy should be used in conjunction with alternate routes.	Reduces traffic demands on the freeway Controls access to the freeway Ramp meters infrastructure may already be in place to address recurring congestion problems	Construction may alter ramp geometrics, making it undesirable or unsafe to use ramp metering Ramp queues may block local arterial streets Traffic may divert to an undesirable alternate route (unless acceptable alternate route clearly defined) Requires that TOC have communications with ramp controllers	FHWA’s Ramp Management and Control Handbook(11)

Online Resources:

1. Alternative Route Handbook. Report No. FHWA-HOP-06-092. Federal Highway Administration, May 2006. Available at https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/ar_handbook/index.htm
2. Roadside Design Guide. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. March 2006.
3. A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Street. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. 2004.
4. Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management Plans for Work Zones. Available at http://www.dot.state.co.us/Traffic_Manuals_Guidelines/incident_management_guidelines/incident_management_guidelines_20030919.pdf
5. T-REX Incident Response Manual. Available at http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/523/documents/1ManualOctober2002.pdf
6. Traffic Incident Management Handbook. November 2000. Available at http://www.iacptechnology.org/IncidentManagement/TrafficIncidentMgmtHandbook.pdf
7. Accident Investigation Sites. Florida Department of Transportation. District 1. Available at http://www.i95coalition.org/Incident-toolkit/documents/Guide/Guide_AIS%20_FL_D1.pdf
8. iROX I-75 Road Expansion Project. Florida Department of Transportation. Available at http://cmstest.snworks.com/index.php?q=node/12
9. Freeway Management and Operations Handbook. Report No. FHWA-OP-04-003. Federal Highway Administration. 2004. Available at https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freewaymgmt/publications/frwy_mgmt_handbook/
10. https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/incidentmgmt/on_scene_ops/safety/safety.htm#3
11. Ramp Management and Control Handbook. Report No. FHWA-HOP-06-001. Federal Highway Administration. January 2006. Available at https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/ramp_mgmt_handbook/manual/manual/1_1.htm

Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Information Dissemination to Travelers

Information dissemination plays a vital role in incident management. With accurate and timely information, motorists can make timely, informed mode choices as well as routing and departure time decisions. These decisions not only help to reduce traffic demands through the work zone area where the incident occurred, but can also reduce the potential for secondary crashes and driver frustration. Table 8 lists some strategies and techniques that can be used by work zone planners to facilitate information dissemination about incidents in work zones.

Table 8. Strategies and Techniques for Disseminating Work Zones Incident Information to Public

Strategies and Techniques	Description	Pros	Cons	For More Information
Dynamic Message Signs	This strategy involves using permanent or movable dynamic message signs to provide motorists with information in advance of, or at, the scene of an incident.	Information directly provided to motorists affected by incident Many work zones will have devices as part of TMP Motorists are familiar/expect to receive information from these devices	Message content restricted to a relatively few characters Does not reach travelers outside immediate vicinity of sign Cannot display complex messages	FHWA’s Changeable Message Sign Operation and Messaging Handbook(1) FHWA’s Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Cross-Cutting Study (2)
Highway Advisory Radio	This strategy involves using a low-powered AM or FM radio system to provide travelers in the immediate vicinity of work zone with information about incidents.	Allows operators to provide more detailed messages Reaches a broader range of travelers in corridor	Drivers must tune to radio station to receive message Requires signing to alert motorists that a message is available	Deployment of Smart Work Zone Technology in Arkansas (3)
Broadcast Radio and TV Media	This strategy involves developing agreements with broadcast radio and television stations to provide incident information in a pre-established format for a specified period of time.	Has potential to reach travelers before they enter corridor or begin trip Can impact mode choice, routing, and departure time decisions	Accuracy of information being disseminated difficult to control Media agreement to information format may be difficult to obtain	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (8)
Traffic Reporting Service	This strategy involves utilizing traffic reporting services to disseminate traffic and travel information for incorporation in in-vehicle displays	Information can be tailored by traffic reporting service for specific users Information can be integrated with in-vehicle travel information displays	Agency does not control/influence diversion route of traveler Agency does not control accuracy of information being disseminated	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (8)
Email /Fax Alerts or Mobile Web Site	This strategy involves deploying a system whereby incident alerts are automatically distributed through electronic means such as emails, faxes, Web pages, etc.	Has potential to reach a wide distribution of travelers Technology relatively easy to deploy Users would need to subscribe to service Many urban areas have systems already in place	Requires staff to manage system	Houston TranStar Traffic Alerts Web site (5)
Web Sites/ Kiosks	This strategy involves using Web sites and information kiosks in public areas to disseminate information about incidents in work zones	Has potential to reach travelers prior to initiating trip Can impact mode choice, routing, and departure time decisions	Does not reach motorist already in work zone Requires integration with other systems	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (8)
Dedicated Information Phone Number / 511 System	This strategy involves disseminating work zone incident information through either a dedicated telephone call-in number or an existing 511 service.	511 services available in many metropolitan areas Has potential to reach travelers prior to initiating trip as well as drivers who have already started trip	Dedicated telephone number requires operator to staff Requires driver to initiate call to obtain information	Resource 511(6) FHWA’s 511 Travel Information Telephone Services Web site (7)

Online Resources:

1. Changeable Message Sign Operation and Messaging Handbook. Report No. FHWA-OP-03-070. Federal Highway Administration. Available at http://tmcpfs.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/cfprojects/uploaded_files/CMS%20Operation%20and%20Messaging%20Handbook-Final%20Draft.pdf
2. Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones: A Cross-Cutting Study on Integrated Work Zone System for Improving Travel Conditions and Safety. Federal Highway Administration, November 2002. Available at http://www.itsdocs.fhwa.dot.gov/JPODOCS/REPTS_TE/13600.htm
3. L.H. Tudor, A. Meadors, and R. Plant, II. Development of Smart Work Zone Technology in Arkansas. In Transportation Research Record 1824. Paper no. 03-3115. Available at http://trb.metapress.com/content/e2655n7753500257/fulltext.pdf
4. Traffic Incident Management Handbook. November 2000. Available at http://www.iacptechnology.org/IncidentManagement/TrafficIncidentMgmtHandbook.pdf
5. Houston TranStar Traffic Alerts Web site. Available at http://traffic.houstontranstar.org/trafficalert/trafficalert_login.aspx
6. 511 Deployment Coalition Web site. Available at http://www.deploy511.org/
7. Federal Highway Administration Web site on 511 Travel Information Telephone Services. Available at https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/511/

Strategies and Techniques for Improving Incident Information Dissemination to Responders

Improving the level of coordination and collaboration between incident responders also helps to reduce the impact of incidents on traffic operations in work zones. Better information dissemination can facilitate this coordination and collaboration. Table 9 provides several strategies and techniques that have been used to assist with information dissemination about incident response policies, procedures, and guidelines between incident responders.

Table 9. Strategies and Techniques for Improving Information Dissemination Among Incident Responders

Strategies and Techniques	Description	Pros	Cons	For More Information
Incident Response Manual	This strategy involves developing an incident response manual that collects all the policies, procedures and guidelines for managing incidents.	All information needed by incident responders in one place Contains contact information for responders in different response agencies	May be difficult to keep contact information up-to-date	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (1) CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual(2) Guidebook on Incident Management Planning in Work Zones (3)
Communication Protocols / Frequency List	This strategy involves developing a listing of predetermined radio frequency assignments that incident responders can use to communicate with each other on scene.	Provides a quick reference of all radio frequencies for responders	May be difficult to keep contact information up-to-date	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (1) CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual(2) Guidebook on Incident Management Planning in Work Zones (3)
Identification Vests	This strategy involves adopting the use of identification vests to be used by incident command and emergency personnel.	Makes it easier for late arrivals to identify individuals in charge at incident scene Can be used to limit access by individuals within certain perimetered areas Vests that follow National Incident Management System Incident Command Structure can be purchased from private vendors	Multiple vests may be required for same agency to accommodate shifts	Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management in Work Zones (4)
Personnel Resource List	This strategy involves developing a comprehensive contact list of response personnel.	Provides a quick reference for notifying responders Usually part of incident response manual	May be difficult to keep up-to-date	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (1) CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual(2)
Incident Management Reviews / Debriefings	This strategy involves establishing regular meetings between incident responders to review and discuss coordination and tactical issues associated with responding to incidents.	Many locations already have a process for doing incident reviews/debriefings Allows agencies to discuss issues that affected response Allows agencies to collaborate on modifications to improve responses Facilitates dialogue between responders	Some responders may view this as a personal attack on performance May be difficult to get all field personnel together at same time because of shifts	Traffic Incident Management Handbook (1) CDOT’s TREX Incident Response Manual(2)
Media Packets	This strategy involves developing packets that can be distributed to media to disseminate information during incident in work zones.	May include contact information for agency public information officer Contains maps showing staging areas, detour routes, etc.	Information may not be relevant for all incident conditions Strategy valid for major incidents only	Guidebook on Incident Management Planning in Work Zones (3) Construction Project Media Kit (5)

Online Resources:

1. Traffic Incident Management Handbook. November 2000. Available at http://www.iacptechnology.org/IncidentManagement/TrafficIncidentMgmtHandbook.pdf
2. T-REX Incident Response Manual. Colorado Department of Transportation. Available at http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/523/documents/1ManualOctober2002.pdf
3. Guidebook on Incident Management Planning in Work Zones. Available at http://www.ctre.iastate.edu/smartwz/reports/swzdi-2005-horowitz-guidebook-incident-mgmt.pdf
4. Guidelines for Developing Traffic Incident Management Plans for Work Zones. Available at http://www.dot.state.co.us/Traffic_Manuals_Guidelines/incident_management_guidelines/incident_management_guidelines_20030919.pdf
5. Construction Project Media Kit. Available at http://inform.enterprise.prog.org/pdf/cpmk.pdf