The 5-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Traffic Control Equipment

Selecting the right traffic control equipment is critical for ensuring road safety, compliance with regulations, and smooth traffic flow. Whether you're managing a construction site, road repair, or large public event, making informed decisions about your traffic control setup can save time, reduce risks, and prevent costly mistakes.

At Barricade Traffic Services, we provide high-quality traffic safety equipment for rental and purchase, helping you create safe and effective work zones. Below is a five-step guide to help you choose the right traffic control solutions for your project.

Step 1: Assess Your Project Requirements

Before selecting any equipment, take a detailed look at your project scope and traffic impact. Consider:

• Project Type – Is it road construction, maintenance work, an event, or emergency road closure? Each requires different equipment.

• Traffic Volume & Speed – High-speed highways require stronger barriers, while low-traffic areas may only need cones and warning signs.

• Duration of Work – Short-term projects might be better suited for rental, while long-term or recurring projects may justify buying equipment.

• Space & Layout – Consider lane closures, detour routes, pedestrian pathways, and vehicle access points to determine placement.

• Regulatory Compliance – Ensure your setup meets MTO (Ministry of Transportation Ontario) standards and other local regulations.

Step 2: Identify the Essential Traffic Control Equipment

Once you've defined your needs, it's time to select the right traffic control solutions. Here’s a breakdown of essential equipment categories and their uses:

Traffic Safety Cones & Barrels

Traffic Safety Cones & Barrels

• Purpose: Used for lane closures, work zone perimeters, and hazard marking.

• Key Features:

• High-visibility orange for daytime and nighttime use.

• MTO-approved reflective collars for enhanced safety.

• Stackable and lightweight for easy transport.

Barricades Rent or Sale

Barricades

• Purpose: Used to restrict access, guide traffic, and protect work crews.

• Options Available:

• Metal Crowd Control Barricades – Ideal for public events and pedestrian management.

• V-Type Crowd Control Barricades – Used for creating designated work areas.

• Plastic Sawhorse Barricades – Lightweight and effective for road detours.

Regulatory & Warning Signs

Regulatory Signs | Warning Signs

• Purpose: Provide essential information like road closures, detours, and speed limits.

• Key Features:

• MTO-approved durable materials for all weather conditions.

• Reflective coatings for maximum visibility.

• Multiple mounting options for temporary or long-term projects.

Flashing Arrow Boards & Message Boards

Flashing Arrow Boards | Portable Message Signs

• Purpose: Guide drivers safely through detours and work zones.

• Key Features:

• LED lights with adjustable brightness for day and night operation.

• Solar-powered options for energy efficiency.

• Remote programming for real-time traffic updates.

Speed Radar Trailers

Speed Radar Trailers

• Purpose: Used in construction zones to alert drivers of their current speed, reducing speed-related accidents.

• Key Features:

• Portable trailer design for easy deployment.

• Digital display with real-time speed feedback.

• Solar-powered and long battery life.

Jersey Wall Barriers & Crash Protection

Jersey Wall Barriers

• Purpose: Provide maximum protection in high-speed traffic zones.

• Key Features:

• Absorbs collision impact to reduce accident severity.

• Interlocking design for quick assembly.

• Durable concrete and plastic options for long-term use.

Step 3: Determine Whether to Rent or Buy

Now that you've identified the necessary equipment, decide whether it's more cost-effective to rent or purchase based on your project duration and budget.

When to Rent Traffic Equipment

• Short-term projects (road repairs, public events, temporary work zones).

• Budget constraints – Renting eliminates high upfront costs.

• Limited storage space – No need for long-term storage or maintenance.

When to Buy Traffic Equipment

• Long-term or frequent use projects (construction firms, municipalities).

• Brand customization – Owning allows for custom branding.

• Cost savings over time – More economical for repeated use.

Step 4: Ensure Proper Placement & Visibility

Proper setup is key to effective traffic control. Incorrect placement of cones, barricades, or signs can lead to accidents, confusion, and traffic congestion.

• Follow regulatory guidelines for sign placement and spacing.

• Use reflective materials for nighttime visibility.
  Position signs and cones where drivers can see them well in advance.

• Double-check stability of barriers and signs to prevent wind displacement.

• Regularly inspect equipment for damage and replace when necessary.

For a detailed guide on setting up traffic safety cones, read our blog:
How to Set Up Traffic Safety Cones for Maximum Visibility

Step 5: Work with a Trusted Traffic Control Company

Choosing the right traffic control company is just as important as selecting the right equipment. You need a reliable supplier who offers high-quality, MTO-approved products, expert guidance, and dependable service.

At Barricade Traffic Services, we are the best in the business when it comes to traffic control solutions. We offer:

• A Wide Range of Traffic Control Equipment – From safety cones to message boards, we have everything you need.

• Both Rental & Purchase Options – Flexible solutions tailored to your budget.

• Industry-Compliant Products – All equipment meets MTO and safety standards.

• Expert Support – Need help choosing? Our team provides professional guidance for your project.

Contact Us Today to get a traffic control solution that fits your needs.

Get the Right Traffic Control Equipment for Your Project

Choosing the right traffic control equipment ensures safety, efficiency, and compliance. By following these five steps, you can confidently assess your project’s needs, select the right equipment, and decide whether to rent or buy.

For high-quality traffic control solutions, trust Barricade Traffic Services—your #1 partner in traffic safety.

Browse Our Full Range of Traffic Equipment: Visit Barricade Traffic Services