In UK, about 0.9% of accidents happen due to the reason when people hit an object on the road. Sometimes, these collisions can be serious without sign boards. That is why object marker signs are placed.
In this article, you will learn what these signs look like. Furthermore, you will get their types and where you usually see them.
What is an Object Marker Sign?
An object marker sign shows you obstacles that are present on or near your roads. Basically, it warns you about objects that may block your path or creates confusion. These signs are used to protect you from major accidents.
Shape of Object Marker Sign
Well, object marker signs have bright colors like red, orange or yellow. They often use stripes, arrows and reflective panels to catch your attention.
You could see them in the shape of arrow boards, traffic cones or posts that are placed near hurdles. Their specific patterns show you the exact direction to avoid the object safely.
Four Types of MUTCD Object Markers
There is an organization (The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) which specifies majorly 4 types of object markers.
Type 1 Object Marker or OM1 1 Sign
This type of object marker has a diamond shape. You can see highly reflective sheets on it, which make them visible at night. Its minimum size is 18 by 18 inches. You have to place the sign, 4 feet high from the road edge.
Type 2 Object Marker
Type two object markers come in different forms. These signs are also placed 4 feet above the road. Sometimes, the height can change according to your road type.
OM2-X: You may see three circular yellow reflectors on a vertical board. Mostly, each reflector is at least 4 by 4 inches. These are commonly placed on a metal rod.
OM2-Y: This is a rectangular panel of a yellow reflective sheet. Its width is 6 inches and it is 12 inches tall.
OM2-Z: You find three small yellow reflectors (3 by 4 inches for each). There is one large reflector that is 3 by 12 inches in size. Mostly, you will notice it on a flexible post.
Type 3 Object Marker
All Type of 3 object markers are at least 12 by 36 inches. You will find them mounted on thin metal rods. They are placed on a height of 4 feet from the surface of the road. You may see these object markers in tall rectangles shape with black and yellow diagonal stripes.
OM3-L: As its name clears, the stripes are drawn from top left to bottom right. Therefore, it is placed on the left side of the road. So, you should move right to avoid the object.
OM3-C: When it comes to 3-C, stripes are marked from center down to both sides. You could find it in the middle of the road. This is why you can pass on either side safely.
OM3-R: You get stripes from top right to bottom left. That’s why it is placed on the right side of the road. You have to turn toward the left to avoid the obstacle.
Type 4 Object Marker
You notice red object markers on the road. They are diamond-shaped signs that use red reflective sheets. The smallest size you will see is 18 by 18 inches. Actually, these markers are used to show the end of a road.
You will find them on a hollow metal pipe. You have to place them at the same height (about 4 feet) above the edges of the road. This type of OM also has variations like OM4-1 Sign, OM4-2 Sign and OM4-3 Sign.
Placement of Object Marker Signs
Object markers are installed at such places where the risk of accidents is very high. Some of these places are:
- Road medians
- Bridge pillars
- Road shoulders / curb Side
- Drainage pipe ends
- Road ends
- Raised divider
- Construction zones
What are Object Markers Used For?
As you know, object markers tell you about the obstacle that is on the way. So, you can be prepared to cross it safely.
- Safety officers install these object markers to show you which side is safe for you.
- Object markers are used near the bridges to save you from falling down. And avoid collisions with pillars.
- When you see them near construction zones, they inform you about heavy machinery, open trenches or uneven road surfaces.
- Object markers are used in the center of the road to guide you where the lane separates. Especially, when your view is very low (in fog or at night).
- At the end of the road, they are used to save your vehicle from riding off the road.
- They are also used to protect you from the open ended drainage pipes.
Final Thought
We hope you are now able to understand the need for object marker signs on our roads. Always make sure to place them in the right position according to MUTCD. If you want object markers or object marking signs, we can manufacture them for you. Let’s talk.
FAQs
What are the MUTCD Guidelines For the Installation of Object Markers?
The marker must be installed at the height of 4 feet. If there is any obstacle on the roadway then its mounting height is 8 feet. Plus, you must keep at least 4 feet gap between the ground and the bottom of the marker
What is the Distance Between Road Markers?
There is no exact distance recommended. On straight roads, the gap stays near 80 feet. For curves, this distance is decreased to 40 feet. At some winding roads, you may see less than 40 feet of distance.
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Types of Object Markers. | Research Gate
