The Ultimate Guide To Flashing Arrow Boards

When it comes to ensuring the safety of road users and workers within roadworks and construction zones, flashing arrow boards are essential. They play a vital role in alerting individuals and controlling the flow of traffic and can be mounted on a vehicle or placed on a trailer to ensure maximum coverage and easy manoeuvrability.

What is an arrow board, and how can you find the right option for your project? We thought we would put together a comprehensive guide to help you.

Key Takeaways

• An arrow board is a traffic control device with LED lights arranged in directional patterns.
• Flashing arrow boards help guide vehicles safely around construction zones or hazards.
• Boards can be mounted on vehicles or trailers and used both during the day and at night.
• Common flashing arrow board trailer dimensions are around 2400mm × 1200mm.
• Factors like weight, power source, and road conditions influence which arrow board is best for your site.

What is an Arrow Board?

First things first, what is an arrow board? It’s a large electronic sign equipped with high-visibility LED lights that form directional arrows or caution symbols. They are typically mounted on trailers or directly onto vehicles, depending on the job’s requirements, and are specifically designed to improve road safety.

Their primary purpose is to direct traffic safely around work zones, lane closures and hazards, which is why they are most commonly used in roadworks, construction zones, and in emergencies.

What is an Arrow Board Used for?

When it comes to answering the question, “What is an arrow board used for?” the response varies depending on the project at hand. However, the core purpose of this equipment remains the same: to ensure the safety of all road users by accurately and clearly guiding traffic.

Some of the most common uses for flashing arrow boards include:

• In road resurfacing and maintenance projects
• For bridge and road upgrades
• To inform of lane closures and detours
• For temporary traffic flow changes (due to an event or festival)
• In response to an emergency situation (such as flooding or fires)

These boards are able to warn motorists of an upcoming hazard and provide them with an alternative route to bypass it safely. They help to reduce confusion and increase safety by offering immediate and highly visible instructions.

Flashing Arrow Boards and Flash Modes

Arrow boards come in two main types. Vehicle-mounted versions are ideal for mobile works and short-term lane closures, while trailer-mounted options are better suited for setups over a longer duration.

Whichever version you opt for, they will feature a variety of flash modes to help convey different messaging. This includes:

• Sequential arrows

These point traffic toward a specific direction

• Chevron pattern

This option helps to reinforce direction in high-speed zones.

• Caution mode

This alerts drivers to hazards without providing a specific direction.

RPM Hire’s arrow boards are also equipped with brightness controls to ensure maximum visibility in all conditions. This also ensures they can be used 24/7, with the boards automatically adjusting to daylight and darkness.

Dimensions and Weight

When considering flashing arrow board trailer dimensions, standard sizes are typically around 2400mm × 1200mm; however, custom options are also available to meet specific site needs.

Most trailer-mounted boards weigh between 220kg and 350kg, depending on the build, battery setup, and frame materials. There are lighter units available, which are often more mobile, while heavier ones offer greater stability in high-traffic or windy conditions.

Choosing the Right Arrow Board

Not quite sure which arrow board is the best fit for your project? A few key factors can help guide your decision and ensure you get the most suitable option for your worksite.

First, consider the duration of the job. For short-term or mobile works, a vehicle-mounted arrow board is often ideal due to its manoeuvrability and convenience. On the other hand, longer-term projects may benefit from trailer-mounted units that can be left in place. Next, think about the speed of surrounding traffic. High-speed zones typically require boards with larger displays and brighter LEDs to ensure visibility from a distance and to give motorists more time to react. Power supply is another important consideration. Solar-powered arrow boards are a popular choice because they’re environmentally friendly, require minimal maintenance, and don’t rely on external power sources. Finally, assess how much mobility and flexibility your site demands. If you expect to move the board frequently or set up in varied locations, a trailer-mounted unit provides the portability and ease of transport you’ll need.

Contact RPM Hire Today for Your Flashing Arrow Boards

If you are looking for flashing arrow boards for your next project, then our team here at RPM Hire is on hand to help you. These essential products help improve workplace safety, reduce congestion, and ensure your worksite remains as efficient as possible.

No matter whether you’re managing a multi-week roadworks project, a weekend resurfacing job, or are running a largescale event, get in touch with RPM Hire today to learn more about our extensive range of products.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an arrow board weigh?

Arrow board weights can vary depending on the model and configuration, but most trailer-mounted units fall within the 220kg to 350kg range. Lightweight versions are easier to tow and manoeuvre, while heavier boards are designed for added stability, which is especially important on windy days or on high-traffic roads.

Are flashing arrow panels only used at night?

Not at all. Although highly visible in the dark, flashing arrow panels are designed for use around the clock. They’re fitted with LED displays that automatically adjust brightness depending on the light levels, making them just as effective during the day as they are at night.

What are standard trailer dimensions?

A typical arrow board trailer measures approximately 2400mm in length by 1200mm in height. This size provides good visibility for road users while remaining compact enough for easy transport and setup. Custom sizes may be available depending on your project needs.