A Brief Introduction to Traffic Cones
Whether you work in construction or not, you’re bound to have had one or two frustrating encounters with traffic cones on the roads of the UK. Although it’s true that our brightly-coloured conical friends inspire both love and hatred in equal measure, they also play an important role in public safety that can’t be underestimated.
In this blog post, we thought we’d share a little cone-love, so we’ve delved back in time to give you a better understanding of the history of the humble, yet iconic traffic cone. Enjoy!
Who invented traffic cones?
Charles P. Rudabaker is the chap credited with inventing the humble traffic cone in 1914, although no patent exists under that name to verify this. Early traffic cones were made of concrete and/or wood and were highly unforgiving to automobiles in collisions!
In the 1940’s Charles D. Scanlon, a painter for the Los Angeles Streets Department, designed and patented the first hollow, cone-shaped “Safety Marker”. Scanlon’s invention was inspired by his need to keep cars away from wet paint. The earliest Scanlon safety markers were manufactured using discarded tire skins, but Scanlon quickly abandoned production because he was unable to source a steady supply of used tires.
In 1947, Interstate Rubber Products Corporation began manufacturing cones using rubber and a heated moulding technique.
David Morgan, an engineer from the UK, claims to have invented the first commercial plastic cone while working at Imperial Chemical Industries.
Where were traffic cones first used?
Rudabaker’s concrete traffic cones are reported to have made their first appearance in New York City, New York. Traffic cones made their British debut in 1958 for the opening of the M6.
What are modern traffic cones made from?
The days of heavy, cumbersome concrete and wooden safety markers are over. Modern traffic cones are most commonly produced using thermoplastics, rubber or recycled PVC and are easily transported and stored.
How many traffic cones are there in the world?
Sadly, no official figures exist showing how many traffic cones are currently in existence, although it is estimated that there are roughly 1.3 million traffic cones in the UK and roughly 140 million worldwide.
Are you looking for traffic cones?
At Manchester Safety Services, we stock a wide range of high-quality traffic cones. If you would like some advice or guidance on choosing the right cones for your needs, get in touch with our friendly sales team on 01706 364943. Alternatively, complete our online contact form and we’ll be in touch soon.
