Non-Regulated vs. Regulated Traffic Safety Products: Key Differences and Use Applications

If you’re in the market for traffic safety products, it likely goes without saying that you have a massive number of different options out there to choose from. However, making a smart choice goes well beyond simple basics like whether traffic cones or traffic delineators are a better fit for your project or work zone.

You also need to consider whether regulated or non-regulated traffic safety equipment is a better fit for your needs. Regulated options help professionals like roadworkers and municipal contractors stay compliant with federal, state, or county requirements. However, there are benefits to choosing non-regulated products, as well.

What Are Regulated Traffic Safety Products?

Regulated traffic safety products are products that meet important designated safety criteria set by federal or state-level governments. For example, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) has standards that dictate product design, as well as providing guidelines governing installation and maintenance.

To legally use a particular product within a specific jurisdiction, it must be included on that jurisdiction’s approved product list (APL) or qualified product list (QPL).

Manufacturers must take specific steps to certify their products and offer them for sale as regulation-compliant. These include the creation of CAD drawings and receipt of Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) letters confirming that a product is fully compliant. Products also undergo rigorous testing to confirm compliance.

How Regulations and Certifications Work

The FHWA does not directly certify traffic safety equipment. However, it does set the standards associated with the MUTCD. This means it also sets the official requirements and criteria a particular traffic product must meet before it can be used for public roadways or spaces.

Naturally, products must meet all federal-level regulations. But each state has its own unique requirements to consider, as well. Regulations also apply on a county level, although some counties have their own regulations while others defer to those set by the state. Thoroughly research the requirements and laws in your area before starting a project.

What Are Non-Regulated Traffic Safety Products?

Non-regulated traffic safety products are simply options that have not completed the certification process necessary for use in public-sector projects. Individual products like traffic cones, roadwork signs, and similar options may be non-regulated. However, some types of equipment – like informative traffic signs designed to help drivers find their end destination – are often non-regulated as a rule.

It’s also important to realize that a product doesn’t necessarily need to be certified to be high in quality or useful to end users. It doesn’t need to be regulated for use in non-public projects, either. For example, many private-sector contractors successfully use non-regulated products from trusted manufacturers for private events, private residential use, and similar purposes. 

Who Needs Regulated Products?

Contractors and workers engaging in public-sector projects are required to use regulated traffic products. By ensuring all supplies, equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), signage, etc. meet strict standardized regulations, governments can be certain they're safe for public use.

Failure to use regulated products that appear on designated APLs or QPLs leaves companies and contractors liable in the event of a collision or other accident. Industries that stick to regulated products for that reason include the following examples.

Construction companies and public-sector contractors

Safely and effectively managing traffic around major active construction zones frequently requires public lane closures and other temporary traffic control measures. Signage, barricades, traffic cones, etc. used for the purpose must meet designated safety standards.

Transportation departments

Transportation facilities like bus, train, or tram depots have a responsibility to public road safety, so any equipment they use needs to be up to code. Examples include, but may not be limited to, signage, traffic signals, and lane marking devices.

Utility companies

Utility companies that manage resources like electricity, water, gas, and sewage frequently need to control traffic or otherwise engage in work that affects public roadways (e.g. trench-digging and emergency repair work).

Airports

Airports are highly regulated for a wide range of reasons, so any traffic safety equipment used must meet especially high standards. These include those set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Road maintenance companies

As with construction, roadwork often requires the implementation of detours, lane closures, and other traffic control measures. Compliance with applicable federal, state, and county regulations is crucial.

Event organizers

Although not all events will require public traffic control, many citywide events will. When that’s the case, using regulation-compliant traffic safety equipment is important.

Who Benefits from Non-Regulated Products?

Although regulated products can certainly be used in contexts or circumstances that don’t explicitly require them, there are also certain benefits associated with choosing non-regulated alternatives instead. Key examples include:

• Cost savings: Non-regulated traffic safety equipment is often just as durable, effective, and high in quality as regulated alternatives. However, it’s also typically a lot cheaper, which can be useful for those on a strict budget.
• Procurement speed: Many professionals need easy access to essential traffic safety supplies on short notice. Fewer procurement obstacles associated with non-regulated products can mean getting your hands on what you need faster.
• Flexibility: When you don’t need to worry about meeting strict regulations, you have more options at your disposal as to how you can manage traffic. Many professionals find it worthwhile to take advantage of that.

Companies engaging in private-sector projects are welcome to use regulated traffic safety equipment if they prefer, but they’re not required to. Common examples of private-sector applications that are good fits for non-regulated products include the following. 

Parking lot and garage use

Traffic safety products like signage, barricades, and traffic cones help private businesses and parking staff manage traffic flow and keep patrons safe. However, equipment used on private property doesn’t need to be regulated.

Private universities and schools

Schools, universities, and other educational facilities often need to designate drop-off zones, control campus traffic flow, and perform maintenance work. Non-regulated equipment is fine for these purposes.

Use in private neighborhoods

Homeowner’s associations (HOAs) and private neighborhoods frequently implement signage to enforce speed limits, manage gated-access systems, and alert drivers to the potential presence of children playing.

Shopping centers and retail outlets

Shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants, and entertainment complexes need to keep customers, visitors, and employees safe when they’re on the premises. Equipment like bollards, traffic signage, etc. can help with this.

Private event management

Even private events like weddings or parties can benefit from professional traffic control products. Directional arrows and signage help guests find their way around. Traffic cones and delineators help mark hazards or create lanes. PPE like reflective vests helps staff do their jobs effectively.

Hospitality venues

Similarly, hospitality venues like hotels, art galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, and even cruise ships have many potential uses for good-quality, reliable traffic safety equipment. Various options can help optimize traffic flow, designate amenities like valet parking, or help guests find their way around.

Non-Regulated vs. Regulated Traffic Safety Equipment: Which Is Right for You?

Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb to follow when choosing between regulated and non-regulated options is to consider whether you’re shopping for a public-sector or private-sector project.

Regulated products ensure you’re in complete compliance with the criteria outlined by the MUTCD. This is always necessary when working within a particular jurisdiction to avoid fines, liability, and potential incidents. However, non-regulated products are perfectly acceptable for use on private property for your own purposes.

For best results, always obtain essential traffic safety equipment from trusted suppliers. Want a closer look at one of the best selections in the business? Check out the complete selection of traffic safety solutions at SONCO today.