6 Essential Safety Guidelines for Road Construction Zones

Cracks are a potential problem on roadways since many vehicles drive on them. Discover some of the most critical safety requirements that should be considered when road-building activities are underway.

(Photo : Unsplash/Jamie Street)

1. Implement Proper Training

Those employed on construction sites for roads or highways should get appropriate training, just like they would in any other new setting, to become familiar with the policies that are in place and the potential dangers that they will encounter. Moreover, communicating consistent protocols to everyone on your team can ensure that they adhere to the same procedures. It is essential to provide your personnel with daily briefings in addition to the initial training they get because the conditions and dangers they face can change significantly.

2. Set Up a Proper Perimeter

The location should possess sufficient perimeter space on all sides to facilitate work. Establish clear boundaries for vehicles at the worksite through appropriate barriers, cones, and other barricades. In addition, barricades should be utilized inside the job site to designate where it is safe for crew members to walk, where items are stored, and where machinery is being used. Your staff should also mark electricity lines to avoid electrocutions and other injuries that may have been avoided.

3. Properly Control Traffic

Warning signs should be posted in the construction zone before expected changes in traffic conditions to function as a preventative area. The zone should include a work zone, a buffer area, a transition area that uses traffic control equipment to facilitate road closures and shifts in traffic patterns, a termination area that allows traffic to return to its usual state, and a sign that indicates that the construction zone has come to an end.

Aside from complying with the regulations of any state agency, all traffic control devices, including cones, barrels, barriers, and signs, shall be under the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) published by the Federal Highway Administration.

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4. Avoid Blind Spots

Heavy machinery and vehicles, such as refuse compactors, excavators, concrete planers, pavers, rollers, and trucks, are constantly in motion within the work zone. The operators are responsible for ensuring that all mirrors and other visual aid equipment, including backup alarms and lights, are mounted and functioning correctly.

Accordingly, remember that the individual in control has a restricted line of sight if you are working on foot near these devices while operating them. Constantly monitor the person operating the vehicle. It is generally safe to assume that regardless of your ability to perceive them, they can also not notice you.

5. Routine On-Site Safety Checks

Creating a safety plan that includes daily safety inspections is a necessary step. Regular inspections of safety equipment, first aid supplies, and emergency procedures should also be accomplished. Make sure that your morning meetings include a roll call and safety equipment checks.

6. Designate A Job Site Safety Officer

Every activity on a construction site needs to be closely monitored by a highly accountable person to guarantee the workers' safety. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration requires a designated individual to recognize and eradicate any hazards or dangers that may be present in the working environment. The responsible person can avoid accidents by conducting routine inspections of the workplace.

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