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04/03/17

Roadside Traffic Controls

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.

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.

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 and your local and state regulations regarding proper signage and barricading.
  • 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.
    • 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.

 

Additional Toolbox Talk Resources:

Read more construction safety and risk management tips here in this month's Toolb​ox Talk.