When a work-site involves moving traffic, it is up to the roadside workers to protect the public and themselves from dangerous accidents.
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 workers to make changes to the route so that it makes sense to motorists.
- If a worker notices any obstacles or areas that may be confusing, he or she should change them before beginning the work.
- Workers should follow the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices provided from Transportation Association of Canada, as well as your local and provincial regulations regarding proper-signage and barricading.
- Workers should place warning signs at least 305 metres before the start of the work zone.
- Signs should be highly visible and in good working order.
- Workers should wear hard hats and bright orange vests during the day and light-reflective strips at night.
- If a worker notices any obstacles or areas that may be confusing, he or she should change them before beginning the work.
- Workers should follow the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices provided from Transportation Association of Canada, as well as your local and provincial regulations regarding proper-signage and barricading.
- Workers should place warning signs at least 305 metres before the start of the work zone.
- Signs should be highly visible and in good working order.
- Workers should wear hard hats and bright orange vests during the day and light-reflective strips at night.
Flagging Duties
At least one employee should act as the traffic control person. He or she should:
- Control traffic with a highly visible sign paddle during the day time.
- Carry two-way radios to communicate with other employees.
- Place signage at least 150 metres from the beginning of the work zone.
Barricades
Space cones, barrels, and other devices used to guide traffic should be placed close together throughout the construction site. 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.- Workers should place cones around vehicles parked on the side of the road to warn motorists to slow down and watch out for them.
If a motorist is confused, not paying attention, or driving recklessly, workers could be in grave danger while on a job site.
Precaution at Night
Workers should:
- Increase warning distances for signage.
- Use orange-cone flashlights to guide traffic.
- Place flashing lights on barricades.
- Tape off excavation site access.
