420 Semaphore Malfunction (Issued 05-15-2008)FRIDLEY POLICE DATE OF ISSUE NUMBER:
GENERAL ORDER May 15, 2008 420
SUBJECT: REVISION DATE SECTION:
Semaphores:
Malfunction/Non-Operational
May 15, 2008 Green
I. PURPOSE
To establish standard procedures for response to malfunctioning or non-
operational semaphores within the City of Fridley.
II. POLICY
It is recognized that a sudden malfunctioning or non-operational semaphore
creates a hazardous situation for vehicular traffic. This hazard requires
appropriate action to correct the situation as soon as reasonably possible
III. PROCEDURE
A. RESPONSIBILITY FOR SEMAPHORE RE-LAMPING
1. The City, through agreement, replaces burned-out bulbs on
semaphores on State highways (TH47 & TH65).
2. The County Highway Department replaces bulbs on semaphores
on County highways (East River Rd & Old Central Avenue).
B. MALFUNCTIONING OR NON-OPERATIONAL SEMAPHORE
1. Upon becoming aware of a malfunctioning or non-operational
semaphore, officers shall do the following:
a. Bulbs Burned Out.
1) State Highways
Fridley Public Works should be notified for
replacement.
2) County Highways
The County Highway Department should be
notified through Central Communications
replacement.
b. Malfunction.
Place lights on flash and notify the appropriate agency
(County Highway Department or State Department of
Transportation) through Central Communications,
requesting repair.
c. Power Outages.
The appropriate power company shall be notified through
central communications. If stop signs are placed at
semaphore locations, the semaphore control box shall be
placed in a flash or off mode, depending upon the location
of stop signs, to avoid conflicting control devices should
power be restored while stop signs are in place.
C. TRAFFIC CONTROL
1. Portable stop signs may be placed at intersections with non-
functioning semaphores to facilitate control of traffic. Care should
be taken to place the signs such that they are clearly visible to
approaching drivers.
2. It may be necessary for uniformed personnel to provide traffic
control at certain intersections to facilitate the safe and orderly
flow of traffic. Multiple intersection power outages will require an
assessment by the supervisor or ranking patrol officer as to the
deployment of available personnel for the greatest public safety
considerations.
3. While performing stationary traffic control functions on streets and
highways, personnel are required to wear traffic vests for personal
safety and visibility to traffic.