North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the preferred type of safety traffic marker?

1. Cones

2. 42" Reflectorized barrel or drum

3. Flags

4. Warning signs

The correct answer is: 42" Reflectorized barrel or drum

The preferred type of safety traffic marker is the 42" reflectorized barrel or drum. This type of marker is particularly effective in providing visibility and guidance in various traffic situations, especially in roadwork and construction zones. The height and reflective characteristics of the barrel or drum make it easily noticeable both during the day and at night, ensuring that drivers can see the marker from a distance and react accordingly. In contrast to other options, cones, while common, do not offer the same level of visibility and are more susceptible to being displaced by wind or vehicle contact. Flags are less effective in terms of visibility and do not provide a substantial physical barrier. Warning signs, while important for informing drivers of hazards ahead, do not serve as physical markers to guide traffic in the same way that a reflectorized barrel or drum can. Thus, the 42" reflectorized barrel or drum is preferred for its combination of height, stability, and reflectivity, which collectively enhance safety for both workers and drivers in active road environments.