This consultation was open from:
November 19, 2021
to December 10, 2021
Decision summary
O. Reg. 185/22: PORTABLE TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS and Ontario Traffic Manual, OTM, Book 7 – Temporary Conditions 2022.
Decision details
The consultation generated many suggestions regarding the regulation and operation of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices to be used on Ontario roadways.
The decisions to each are contained in one document for easy reference.
Effects of consultation
Each comment was reviewed and assessed to determine if the comment was to be part of the regulation, OTM Book 7 guidelines or manufacturer specifications.
Supporting materials
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Original proposal
Proposal details
The newly legislated Moving Ontarians Safety Act, 2021, also known as the MOMS Act, aims to improve road safety by introducing measures to protect vulnerable road users, including workers on or near highways. As such, the legislation includes provisions for the use of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) as a traffic control tool in work zones. An AFAD is a self-contained, portable traffic control system that is operated remotely to control two-way traffic on two-lane highways where traffic is reduced to one lane. Legally recognizing AFADs in the HTA will ensure consistency of design and use and will allow for direct enforcement if this traffic control device is disobeyed by motorists. This will enhance the safety of workers by reducing the need for a worker to physically stand on the roadway to control traffic.
To prepare the regulatory amendments, the Ministry is seeking public input regarding AFADs.
The proposed regulatory changes will define the minimum specifications for permitted devices,
associated required signage and the location of AFADs within work zones. Details on how AFADs
operate and when they can be used are currently provided in Ontario Traffic Manuals (OTM) Book 7, Temporary Conditions and Book 12, Traffic Signals. It is recognized that the details in these
OTM Books may require revision in the future to coordinate more clearly with the wording of the
regulatory amendment.
When preparing your comments, we encourage you to consider the following:
• The requirement for, size and colour of, a signal backboard on the AFAD. Please provide
rationale for your preference.
• Colour scheme for the control gate arm, for example, orange and black, red and black or
yellow and black), control gate arm size and the need for a flag. Please provide rationale for
your preference.
• Location of Traffic Control Person relative to AFAD unit. Please provide details to support
your suggestion.
If you would like to view a sketch of an Automated Flagger Assistance Device, please see the
supporting materials.
Supporting materials
Comment
Commenting is now closed.
This consultation was open from November 19, 2021
to December 10, 2021
Comments received
Through the portal
14