Factors to Consider When Renting a Truck Mounted Attenuator

Truck mounted attenuators (TMAs) are designed to protect workers adjacent to high-speed, high-traffic freeways and one-way drives. TMAs are equipped with an impact attenuating crash cushion that absorbs the impact during a collision and protects structures and equipment on the job site. This facilitates smooth traffic flow even in the event of a crash. They also reduce debris hazards after impact and protect workers, motorists, and other road users.

If you are considering renting a TMA for your project, you should consider the following factors to ensure safety in your work zone.

Truck mounted attenuator design

There are two common types of TMAs that you will find on the market today. These are in fordable or tiltable designs. Both are suitable for crash protection, but they vary in the following ways:

  • Foldable TMAs

The foldable versions, tilt at an angle of 180°, hence, they can be folded. They provide maximum protection with minimal length and height requirements. In fact, they are the shortest types of TMAs when in storage mode and are ideal for garage storage and transportation beneath underpasses.

  • Tiltable TMAs

These versions tilt at an angle of 90° for easy transit in the upright position. The rear strut is slightly raised to allow for ground clearance, and this makes tiltable TMAs ideal for clearing driveways, exit ramps, and other inclined surfaces when in storage mode or during transportation.

Safety features

Certain components can be used on your TMA to improve the safety of workers, motorists, and equipment on the project site. Some of these are compulsory, while others are optional but critical for maximum safety. They include the following:

  • LED work lights and rotating or strobe lights: These allow the truck operator to have a clear view of the front and rear of the site even during the night and in bad weather.
  • Communication systems: Radios should be available to enable communication between the TMA operator and other operators on the project site. Failure to alert the TMA operator of oncoming traffic or any hazards on the site can result in accidents. Radios should be tested for proper functioning before the commencement of the project.
  • Backup camera: A backup camera can be useful in giving the operator an unobstructed view of the rear of the truck. This can prevent accidents as a result of the truck bumping into equipment or workers when in reverse mode.
  • Message boards and arrow boards: These are essential for directing traffic away from the project area to avoid impact.

Truck mounted attenuators can eliminate hazards associated with projects on or along high traffic roads and highways. When renting a TMA, consider these factors to ensure maximum safety of workers, equipment, and road users during your project. For more information, contact companies like A1 Roadlines Pty. Ltd. 


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