Optical Properties of Plane and Convex Mirrors: Investigation of Mirror Use to Enhance Construction Flagger Safety

Legislation and product development in the USA has prompted an interest in mirror-use by traffic flaggers to improve awareness of vehicles approaching from behind. Helmet- and flagpole-mounted configurations were studied using a graphical approach with field verification studies by comparing fields of view, object magnifications, and human factors considerations. Plane and convex mirrors with different radii of curvature were investigated. Results found image formation on helmet-mounted convex mirrors occurs too close to the mirror. A 0.038 m helmet-mounted plane mirror performed similarly to a 0.076 m diameter, 0.508 m radius of curvature convex mirror. Fields of view and image information between helmet-mounted plane mirrors and flagpole-mounted convex mirrors were compared. Issues of image perception, practical use, and attention were identified; they pose serious issues for use as a primary safety device. Additional investigation is needed to determine the requirements and applicability of mirror-use for flagging in work zones.