Reflectivity and LED Warning Systems on TMA Trucks

Getting drivers to see and understand a closure early is half the safety battle. Reflective sheeting and LED warning systems work together to buy the seconds a merge needs.

A TMA truck protects the crew if it gets hit, but the better outcome is that no one hits it at all. That depends on drivers seeing the closure early and reacting in time. Reflective sheeting and LED warning systems are how a truck makes itself unmissable, day and night.

The signaling layers

• Arrow boards in 15-lamp and 25-lamp configurations to direct merges
• Changeable message signs to spell out lane closures and conditions
• LED warning lights and beacons for high-visibility alerting
• Reflective sheeting on the truck body and attenuator for passive visibility

Passive plus active

Reflective sheeting works without power, throwing headlight beams back at drivers. LED systems add active, attention-grabbing motion and brightness. Together they cover both the well-lit daytime scene and the dark shoulder at night, where reaction time is shortest.

Is an arrow board always required on a TMA truck?

It depends on the closure and your traffic control plan. Many lane closures call for an arrow board to direct the merge, while a message board adds context. Follow the MUTCD and your agency's plan for the specific setup.

How many lamps should an arrow board have?

Common configurations are 15-lamp and 25-lamp. The larger board is more visible at distance and higher speeds. Match the board to the road and the plan.