23.3.12 Treatment of Pavement Drop-offs in Work Zones

The Guidelines depicted in the Traffic Safety Division EDGECON Standard Detail apply to construction zone work where continuous pavement drop-offs exist parallel and adjacent to a lane used for travel. The guidelines do not apply to short-term operations, and do not constitute a rigid standard or policy; rather they are guidance to be used in conjunction with engineering judgement.
The “Treatment for Various Edge Conditions” standard sheet shows the treatments for given combinations of edge condition, lateral clearance, and edge height. Remember to consider other factors listed above and use engineering judgment. The standard sheet requires the Engineer's seal, signature, and date.
Additionally, edge drop-offs greater than 2-in immediately adjacent to traffic should not be left overnight. Careful consideration should be given to allowing 1-in to 2-in vertical longitudinal joints between lanes or directly adjacent to the travel lane. Vertical joints greater than 1-in are particularly challenging for motorcyclists and bicyclists to traverse. If a 2-in vertical longitudinal joint is to be used in or adjacent to traffic, consider using the notched-wedge joint as shown in .
Notched Wedge Joint Joint Detail ( click in image to see full-size image)
Figure 23-1: Notched Wedge Joint Detail
Refer to the Construction Divisions technical advisory report on Use of Tapered Longitudinal Joints such as the Notched Wedge Joint for additional information.