Traffic Technician how-to

How to Set Up Traffic Tube Counters Safely

Tubes collect volume and speed.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Tubes collect volume and speed. In short: set; watch; lay, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Set up work zone signs.

  2. Watch traffic.

  3. Lay tubes square.

  4. Secure ends.

  5. Start the counter.

  6. Check readings.

Safety reminders for traffic technicians

  • Wear high-visibility gear
  • Set up work zones
  • Watch traffic
  • Follow MUTCD

ADT · Turning movement count · 85th percentile speed · Signal timing · Cycle length · Phase: see the full traffic technician glossary.

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