Mainroad Pavement Marking is testing a vehicle mounted retroreflectometer on British Columbia roads in an effort to eliminate the need for lane closures and traffic control, as well to improve safety and efficiency compared to handheld devices.
The ZDR 6020 Dynamic Retroreflectometer by Zehntner Testing Instruments is attached to a vehicle, allowing the operator to gather continuous pavement marking retroreflectivity measurements while driving. Glass beads are added to line marking paint to create a reflective surface that improves visibility during low light conditions.
A similar type of testing equipment is being used in Ontario, however Mainroad is the only highway maintenance contractor in North America using this Swiss manufactured testing technology.
Mainroad’s contract with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, who sets the standard for pavement marking reflectivity, requires that a retroreflectivity test be conducted within 30 days of pavement marking and again at the end of the painting season. The Ministry recently renewed its contract with Mainroad for pavement marking services in the Lower Mainland.
