Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons Deliver Solution for Pedestrian Safety
Why RRFBs?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 70% of pedestrian fatalities occur at non-intersections. These are mid-block crossings in downtown areas, school zones, walking trails, and other pedestrian locations. Distracted driving is a chronic problem; even hands-free devices cause “inattention blindness”, a phenomenon that results from cognitive distraction. Studies have shown that when drivers focus on a phone conversation, their field of vision shrinks, creating tunnel vision and reducing their zone of attention and limiting their ability to see pedestrians entering the roadway. Pedestrians focusing on their phones and wearing earbuds contribute to the issue, and tragedies occur. That’s the bad news.
The good news: Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) offer a safe, reliable solution to mid-block pedestrian crossings. According to the US Department of Transportation Office of Safety, RRFBs can reduce pedestrian crashes up to 47% and increase motorist yield rates by 98%.
More good news: Glenco can assist your municipality from design to installation with many options. We can help you design your project based on your specific crosswalk safety needs, including RRFB's, Signs, Solar Panels, Poles and all installation hardware you will need to make your crosswalks safer. Installation can be done by the municipality or by a contractor.
What are RRFBs?
RRFBs are pedestrian-activated traffic control devices designed to increase driver awareness of pedestrians crossing at mid-block crossings and uncontrolled intersections. The device includes two rectangular-shaped yellow indicators, each with an LED-array-based light source that flashes with high frequency when activated. The flashing is programmed for maximum attention enhancement—the so-called “wig-wag” pattern, which alternates to increase visibility and driver awareness.
How RRFBs Work
RRFBs are placed on both ends of a crosswalk. If the crosswalk traverses a wide roadway and encompasses a pedestrian island, the RRFB should be place to the right of the crosswalk and on the median. The systems typically draw power from standalone solar panel units, but can also be wired into traditional power sources or the power grid. In addition to flexible power options, RRFBs can be turned on by an individual pressing a button or be programmed to a passive activation option.
Ideally, RRFBs are paired with clearly indicated crosswalks marked in high visibility paint or PREFORM® Thermostatic material for optimal performance. Learn more about Glenco pavement marking products here.
Features and Benefits of RRFBs
RRFBs offer a number of innovative features that deliver safer, greener, cost -effective “share-the-road” solutions. These include:
Industry leading ultra-bright > 3.5 million candela / m2 output
3000-foot daytime visibility
Standard or enhanced flash patterns
Self-cleaning design
Near zero maintenance
Solar or electric options
Installation can be done in one day
RRFBs “On the road”
Glenco Supplies RRFB to Village of Tarrytown NY
The Village of Tarrytown, NY needed an advanced warning system to address a hazardous crosswalk. The site presented a danger to pedestrians and drivers because it was located down a hill from a sharp turn. They contacted Glenco and we were pleased to provide RRFBs for a safe, low-maintenance solution. We delivered a system that provides a third pole warning so that the lights are flashing before drivers round the curve; pedestrians press the button when they arrive at the crosswalk and all of the RRFBs communicate with each other to activate fully. This ensures that drivers see the crosswalk immediately and optimizes pedestrian safety. Glenco President Glen Abrams comments, “We were proud to work with Tarrytown on this solution. It was a challenging area with regard to pedestrian safety because of the downhill slope followed immediately by the sudden curve, but the RRFB system addressed the visibility issues and has performed well.”
To learn how Glenco can provide RRFBs and other traffic safety solutions and municipal supply products, please visit our website or contact our dedicated sales team.
