Learn What’s New in IA-21 vs. IA-11
On March 20, 2018, the Federal Highway Administration issued Interim Approval 21 – Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons at Crosswalks in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
The Basics
IA-11 is no longer valid: existing RRFBs installed under IA-11 may remain operating until the end of their useful serviceable life. Action: See the FAQ questions #6–7 for more information on previously installed RRFBs and the definition of “Serviceable Life.”
All state and local agencies must apply for new approvals under IA-21. Submit applications to the Office of Transportation Operations: MUTCDofficialrequest@dot.gov
Breaking down the Conditions of Interim Approval
What you need to know | How we can help |
SECTION 5B: BEACON FLASHING REQUIREMENTS |
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Only one flash pattern is permitted: wig-wag + simultaneous (WW+S). | All Carmanah units installed since 2014 are already utilizing the MUTCD-compliant WW+S flash pattern required under IA-21. |
SECTION 5E: BEACON FLASHING REQUIREMENTS |
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Night time dimming is recommended. | All Carmanah RRFBs have nighttime dimming as a built-in feature. |
SECTION 6C: BEACON OPERATION |
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R10-25 sign explaining the purpose and use of the pedestrian pushbutton detector must accompany pushbuttons. | Contact us to determine the components you need for your installation. |
SECTION 7: ACCESSIBLE PEDESTRIAN FEATURES |
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What can be used: locator tone or voice message “yellow lights are flashing,” spoken twice.
What cannot be used: vibrotactile indications or percussive indications. |
Carmanah has been supplying this compliant AP pedestrian pushbutton since 2014. |
Key contacts
- Questions about the IA-21 – Contact Duane Thomas: duane.thomas@dot.gov
- Complimentary site assessment – Contact our team: traffic@carmanah.com
Other resources
- FHWA FAQ: https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/resources/interim_approval/ia21/faq/index.htm
- Our press release: https://carmanah.com/news/rrfb-reinstated/
- Our IA-21 Approval Guidance Letter template: https://carmanah.com/resources/ia-21-guidance-letter/
What’s the best RRFB for your crosswalk?
Contact us for a complimentary site assessment.
Toll-free (US & Canada): 1.844.412.8395
Worldwide: +1.250.412.8395
Email: traffic@carmanah.com