Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10transition zone buffer SPACE Speed (mph) 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 Distance (ft.) 115 155 200 250 305 360 425 495 570 645 730 820 Best Practices: Buffer Space When setting up a quality work zone, the focus should be on meeting or exceeding state guidelines in order to keep your crew and the traveling public safe. While work zones vary from job to job, one aspect that never changes is the necessity to maintain a clear and adequate buffer space. what is a buffer space? A buffer space is an open area behind the cone taper that protects workers by providing motorists a place to slow down and stop if they accidentally drive through the cones (or other devices) and intrude into the work zone. This essential space dramatically reduces the risk of a motorist striking workers or work zone equipment. common buffer space errors When setting up a work zone, common errors include not including a buffer space, setting up a buffer space that is too short, or not recognizing the importance of the open space and wrongly utilizing it to park vehicles and equipment. Tips for a Quality Buffer Space • Every work zone should include a buffer space. • The length of a buffer space is determined by the speed of the roadway (see chart below). • Do not park any vehicles or equipment in the buffer space. • If a vehicle is not working in the work zone, park it a safe distance away (e.g. side road, parking lot). S I X Provided by: TM buffer space SIZING table