How Traffic Cones Have Evolved: From Basic Safety Tools to Modern Traffic Solutions
Traffic cones have long been an essential component of road safety, used to manage traffic flow and ensure the safety of pedestrians and workers. These simple yet effective tools have evolved significantly, from basic road markers to advanced traffic solutions.
In this article, the road safety equipment specialists at Armco Superlite explore the history and evolution of traffic cones and how they have become the road-marking icons they are today.
The Early History of Traffic Cones
The origin of traffic cones dates back to the early 20th century. Initially, there were no standardised tools to manage road users or guide drivers. In the early 1940s, Charles D. Scanlon, a Los Angeles street sign painter, was credited with inventing the modern traffic cone. Previously made from wood or concrete, these early devices were bulky and cumbersome, often destroyed on impact or causing damage to vehicles.
Scanlon developed a ballasted traffic management tool by sewing used tyres together in a cone shape to protect his painting crew and prevent vehicles from driving over wet paint. His invention was eventually patented in 1943, but the lack of bright colours made these early cones difficult to see in low-light conditions. As urbanisation grew and traffic management became more complex, the need for more effective and visible traffic cones became apparent.
Advancements in Materials and Design
As road safety technology progressed, so did the design and materials used in traffic cones. The introduction of plastic in the 1950s marked the first breakthrough in traffic cone design. The lightweight nature of plastic made the cones easier to stack and transport while offering greater durability than the earlier rubber versions. In the following decades, cones underwent numerous improvements to enhance visibility, especially in low-light or nighttime conditions.
The Innovation of UV Protection
One of the most significant innovations in road cones has been the development of UV protection. UV (ultraviolet) protection ensures that their bright orange colour doesn’t fade due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. This is particularly important for cones used in southern Africa, where they are subject to harsh weather conditions. UV protection helps maintain their effectiveness for longer, ensuring consistent visibility, longevity, and safety.
Ergonomic and Durable Designs
Today, road cones are manufactured for visibility, durability, and ease of use. Many cones now feature flexible bases that can withstand heavy traffic or wind without breaking. This ensures that cones stay upright, even in challenging conditions, reducing the risk of damage from vehicles or weather. Additionally, modern designs are stackable, allowing for easy storage and transportation when not in use.
Engineered for the African Marketplace
Traffic congestion, accidents, and pedestrian safety are major concerns in rapidly growing African urban centres. Orange cones are essential for managing traffic and maintaining safety in these environments. Armco’s road cones, often fitted with reflective bands, are used during roadworks, accidents, or events to ensure drivers can see and avoid hazardous areas.
Rural roads, which are rarely paved and may lack proper signage, also benefit from the use of traffic cones. These cones provide an affordable, portable solution for redirecting traffic or indicating road hazards. Their durability, visibility, and UV protection are particularly beneficial in these environments. They can easily withstand harsh rural conditions, including exposure to sun, rain, wind, and abuse from agricultural vehicles.
Why Arm Yourself with Armco?
At Armco Superlite, we supply a comprehensive range of road safety equipment that meets global safety standards. We confidently distribute our superior-quality road cones throughout southern Africa, as they are certified in accordance with SANS-specific requirements. These cones are heavy-based, available in three convenient sizes, and remain upright in windy conditions or heavy transport draughts. They even reshape when run over.
Our traffic cones are manufactured from high-quality PVC and coloured with UV-resistant orange ink for longer lifespans. Additionally, they can be supplied with a reflective sleeve for low-light or nighttime conditions, providing extra visibility. Explore our road safety products page for a full range of our portfolio.