AWP Safety Rolls Out Smarter AFADs for Safer Work Zones

AWP Safety, North Canton, Ohio, offers new Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs). The company is currently rolling out new AFAD units designed to improve worksite safety, efficiency and overall operating costs for customers. Optimizations include:

• Greater visibility for motorists
• Reduced chance of head-on collisions
• Faster and more efficient deployment of self-trailered AFADs that are easier for AWP Safety crews to haul and set up
• 33A motorcycle batteries featuring solar charging technology

The new AFADs also integrate Google/Waze technology to divert some traffic around worksites entirely. Using smart, wireless functionality, the units communicate with Google Maps and Waze to mark worksites as active for navigation apps that apply caution alerts and detour suggestions that help motorists make safe decisions.

“We know firsthand the stress and risk traffic control customer crews face every day in the field,” said Michelle Marsh, senior vice president of AWP Safety’s Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) program. “Our newest AFADs reflect exactly what contractors have been asking for—less risk, less hassle and safer roads for everyone. This innovation is another big step forward in protecting infrastructure workers and the communities they serve.”

By automating flagging, AWP Safety keeps human flaggers out of harm’s way and helps contractors complete work on or ahead schedule. AWP Safety Protectors can control multiple AFADs remotely, allowing them to cover more worksites with fewer

team members while positioning themselves closer to customer crews for better communication and coordination.

For more information, visit the AWP Safety website.