The Best Ways To Keep Road Construction Workers Safe
11th Apr 2023
Road construction workers build new roads and pavements, and repair or improve existing structures. This necessary work improves daily life for everyone in the community but is fraught with risk.
Every year, road construction workers suffer injuries from electric shock, struck-by injuries, and slips. Discover the best ways to keep road construction workers safe.
Establish Effective Traffic Control
A transportation management plan consists of temporary traffic control that safely conducts road users around or through the work zone. Additional traffic control manages the flow of heavy equipment, construction vehicles, and workers inside the work zone.
Use cones, barriers, barrels, and signs to create the temporary traffic control zone’s advance warning area, transition area, activity area, and termination area. Follow the US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration’s guidelines and state agency requirements for optimal protection.
Enforce the Use of PPE
One of the best ways to keep road construction workers safe is to ensure everyone wears the right personal protective equipment (PPE). Determine the appropriate PPE workers should wear for the task and their environment. Hard hats, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection are common forms of PPE used in roadway construction.
High-vis clothing makes construction workers more visible to motorists and those operating workplace equipment. High-visibility apparel in roadway construction should meet ANSI Class 2 or 3 standards, depending on the environment.
Stay Aware of Surroundings
All workers should be mindful of their surroundings. Workers can avoid many road construction hazards by staying vigilant and working carefully around them.
Remain aware of the locations and movements of construction equipment and motorist traffic. Avoid walking on muddy, wet, or icy surfaces when possible.
Site managers should create worksites that amplify awareness. Avoid placing equipment and construction vehicles where they block the sight of the road from any angle. Mirrors and lights also make it easier for workers to observe their settings.
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