Misconceptions Surrounding AFADs
Misconceptions
In the traffic control industry, Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) have historically received criticism due to various issues, such as unreliability, malfunctions, and requiring multiple people to operate, creating safety hazards on job sites. However, the Guardian SmartFlagger (GSF) has completely redesigned the traditional AFAD, addressing these issues and bringing renewed innovation to the industry. Unfortunately, the GSF has also faced some misconceptions similar to traditional automated flaggers. This article addresses these misconceptions and provides a better understanding of the benefits of using a Guardian SmartFlagger.
Technology Issues
One common misconception is that AFAD technology is prone to breakdowns, which can be a significant issue on work sites. At Site 20/20, we continuously test and upgrade our Guardian SmartFlagger (GSF) operating system to improve its quality and usability. If issues arise while operating the GSF, our customer support team is available 24/7 to help find a solution. We also have a team member dedicated to monitoring all active GSF sites to ensure they operate efficiently.
Considerable Expense
Many people assume that using AFADs are more expensive than traditional flagging methods. However, they do not require overtime, vacation, or holiday pay, nor do they require benefits. On average, companies that use them at least three days a month will have already broken even. Fill out our ROI Calculator to see how much money you can save today:
Replaces Jobs
A significant misconception is that AFADs are taking away jobs from workers. However, GSFs are not autonomous and still require Traffic Control Persons/Flaggers to be onsite, remotely operating them via a SMART tablet from the side of the road. Employers typically pay AFAD-certified employees more, and fewer workers are required on a site with automated flaggers, allowing the company to take on more jobs. Resulting in more higher-quality traffic control jobs!
Limited Portability
Traditional AFADs are often bulky and heavy, making them difficult to move. Our GSFs are designed with portability in mind! At just 24 inches in width, two of our SmartFlaggers can fit comfortably in the back of a standard truck bed. Their compact size makes them easily maneuverable by any employee.
Job Specific
Another misconception is that AFADs only work on specific jobs. However, our GSFs are designed to work on 99% of job sites, including mobile utility jobs. We have worked with hundreds of traffic control companies across North America to specifically redesign our AFADs to meet the industry’s specific needs.
AFAD Equality
Not all AFADs are created equal. The Guardian SmartFlaggers (GSF) are specifically designed to address many problems with traditional automated flaggers. The GSFs have two high-definition cameras that can record up to 80 hours, increasing the site’s liability and encouraging driver compliance. The lightweight build of our SmartFlaggers increases portability, easing the site’s setup, and the ability to remotely operate the GSF increases site safety, allowing workers to work in a more comfortable environment and increasing productivity. To learn more about our Guardian SmartFlagger, visit: https://site2020.com/products/guardian-smartflagger-afad/
AFADs are an effective tool that can help improve traffic control on work sites. Many misconceptions surrounding them are inaccurate, and using one can significantly benefit your company. It is essential to choose a reliable and well-designed automated flagger like the Guardian SmartFlagger to ensure the best possible results. To learn more about Automated Flaggers, visit www.spartansafetyservices.com
