Roadside Traffic Control

 

Even when you and your crew think you are safe, some drivers can make working on the roadside potentially deadly. If a motorist is confused, not paying attention or driving recklessly, you could be in grave danger while on a job site.

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When a worksite involves moving traffic, it is up to the roadside workers to protect the public and themselves from dangerous accidents. Remember these safety tips while you are on the job.

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Plan Ahead

Traffic controls should be implemented prior to the start of the roadwork by driving through the proposed traffic pattern.

·         This dry run will allow you to make changes to the route so that it makes sense to motorists.

·         If you notice any obstacles or areas that may be confusing, change them before beginning the work.

 

Signs

·         Follow the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices provided from the U.S. Department of Transportation found at http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov and your local and state regulations regarding proper signage and barricades.

·         Place warning signs at least 1,000 feet before the start of the work zone.

·         Signs should be highly visible and in good working order.

 

Barricades

·         Place space cones, barrels, and other devices used to guide traffic close together throughout the construction site.

o   Motorists should not be able to deviate from the path you feel is safest for them to travel.

 

Safety Gear

·         Wear hard hats, Day-Glo®, or orange vests during the day and light-reflective strips at night.

 

Flagging Duties

At least one employee should act as the traffic control person.

·         Control traffic with a highly visible sign paddle during the daytime.

·         Flaggers should carry two-way radios to communicate with other employees.

·         Alert motorists of the presence of flaggers by placing signage at least 500 feet from the beginning of the work zone.

 

Vehicle Specifications

·         All vehicles must have backing alarms, two-way radios, and signs indicating “Slow Moving.”

·         All vehicle operators should be properly trained on how to operate the equipment.

·         Place cones around vehicles parked on the side of the road to warn motorists to slow down and watch out for them.

 

Take Extra Precautions at Night

·         Increase warning distances for signage.

·         Flaggers should use orange-cone flashlights to guide traffic.

·         Place flashing lights on barricades.

·         Tape off excavation site access.

 

Provided by: Hausmann-Johnson Insurance