Area Lighting For Nighttime Work Areas

Floodlights VS. Balloon Lights


By Scott Shaver - June 12, 2023

According to the MUTCD Section 6F.82:

Standard:
03 Except in emergency situations, flagger stations shall be illuminated at night.
04 Floodlighting shall not produce a disabling glare condition for approaching road users, flaggers, or workers.


It is imperative in the traffic control industry that we follow the standards that the Federal Highway Administration has put in place in the MUTCD. We are all in this industry to provide a service that intends on delivering safety to our employees, our clients and the travelling public regardless of how they are travelling.

The reason that working at night can be so dangerous is that our vision is greatly reduced while travelling and we rely on the reflection of light so that we can properly see. The MUTCD provides plenty of standards that can help travellers see the work at night from retroreflective safety apparel to retroreflective tape on devices used within the TTC Zone. The most beneficial way to allow the travelling public to see better however is the use of area lighting. There are many ways to achieve area lighting. The most common form is a pull-behind trailer that has a diesel generator and a light tower that cranks up into the air 30-50 feet so that the lights can be aimed down so as to not provide the disabling glare to road users per the MUTCD Standard. The greatest problem with this is the flood light produces a concentrated beam of light towards a specific area and it may take multiple tries to get the light situated such that the light does not provide the glare to road users. Typically these lights are used to illuminate both the work as well as the flagger stations. The wider the lights are splayed, the greater chance that the travelling public will be blinded.

So how should we provide safety in a Temporary Traffic Control Zone in dim or dark conditions? We should mitigate the above issues by utilizing balloon lighting. We have partnered with Airstar so that our customers can have the best options available. Airstar products offer several benefits that make them a compelling option for various applications. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying Airstar balloon lights through us:
  1. Portable and Easy to Set Up: These balloon lights are designed to be portable and user-friendly. They can be quickly inflated and set up without requiring specialized equipment or extensive technical knowledge. The lightweight design and compact size make them easy to transport and deploy in various locations.

  2. Powerful Illumination: Airstar balloon lights are known for their powerful and uniform illumination. The balloons are made from high-quality materials that ensure maximum 360° light diffusion, minimizing shadows and glare. They provide bright and even lighting, creating a well-lit environment for any task or event.

  3. Energy-Efficient: Airstar Lighting balloon lights are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They utilize LED technology, which consumes less power compared to traditional lighting solutions while delivering the same or higher level of brightness.

  4. Durability and Weather Resistance: Airstar balloon lights are built to withstand various weather conditions. They are made from robust materials that are resistant to water, wind, dust, and other elements, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging environments. This durability makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

  5. Safety Features: These balloon lights are designed with safety in mind. They have built-in safety features such as thermal protection, which prevents overheating, and low voltage operation, reducing the risk of electrical hazards. Additionally, Airstar balloon lights are often compliant with relevant safety standards and regulations.

  6. Customization Options: Airstar offers a range of customization options to meet specific lighting needs. They come in different sizes, light output levels, and color temperatures, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your requirements. Some models also offer adjustable brightness and the ability to change the light direction.

  7. Reliability and Trusted Brand: Airstar is a reputable brand known for its high-quality lighting solutions. They have a track record of delivering reliable products that meet the demands of various industries. Choosing Airstar means you can rely on their performance and longevity.

Airstar is the innovator of the inflatable, non-glare technology. If you would like more information on how we can help you attain illuminated glare-free work areas in dim and dark conditions, please reach out to us and schedule a demonstration. We would love to discuss your upcoming projects and how Road Worx can be of service.

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