IMSA Work Zone study guide
IMSA Work Zone · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The IMSA Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control Technician is one of the certification programs offered by the International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA), a public safety association that also certifies professionals in traffic signal, signs and markings, roadway lighting, and fiber optics. IMSA states that 24,000+ professionals currently hold an IMSA certification. The work zone program is aimed at the people who plan, install, maintain, and remove temporary traffic control: public agency street and traffic operations staff, utility crews, and contractor personnel who work in or next to the roadway. Content is organized into four areas - temporary traffic control fundamentals and standards; traffic control devices and materials; work zone layout, setup, and maintenance; and worker and roadway user safety, inspection, and documentation. The IMSA Work Zone study guide has 4 sections and about 1,253 words.
01Temporary Traffic Control Fundamentals and Standards
Temporary traffic control (TTC) is the coordinated use of signs, markings, channelizing devices, barriers, lighting, and flaggers to move road users safely through or around a work zone. The governing framework is MUTCD Part 6, plus the state or local manual adopted for the project.
332 words, about 2 min02Traffic Control Devices and Materials
TTC devices include warning and guide signs, channelizing devices (cones, drums, tubular markers), barricades, temporary barriers, crash attenuators, temporary pavement markings, flagger paddles, and lighting. Devices must be visible, stable, crashworthy when required, and correct for the application.
292 words, about 1 min03Work Zone Layout, Setup, and Maintenance
A work zone layout is built from the TTC plan and adjusted in the field. Start with the advance warning area, then the transition taper, the activity area, and the termination area.
331 words, about 2 min04Worker and Roadway User Safety, Inspection, and Documentation
Worker and road user safety depends on high-visibility apparel, training, internal traffic control, and a clear escape route. Workers should wear high-visibility safety apparel meeting the adopted standard, stay out of traffic space unless protected, and never turn their backs on approaching traffic.
298 words, about 1 min