Winter brings many hazards such as icy roads and whiteout conditions that affect construction projects and road safety. This guide will offer traffic equipment suggestions and winter road safety tips that will help protect pedestrians and construction workers in work zones.
Traffic Control Systems for Winter Conditions
Winter weather can severely affect visibility and increase road hazards, which is why having proper traffic control devices is all the more important as it promotes better road safety in winter.
Whether on snow-covered roads or in icy conditions, drivers rely on clear, visible signage to navigate safely. Here’s how traffic control devices can boost safety during the winter months.
Reflective Markings and Signs
Reflective signs and road markings are both effective and vital for maintaining road safety in winter. Using high-contrast, MUTCD-compliant reflective materials guarantees that signs such as stop signs, directional arrows, and hazard warnings remain visible even in heavy snowfall or low-light conditions. Reflective markings, such as pavement markers, can be another effective option to help guide drivers when visibility is affected by snow or ice.
LED Traffic Signals
LED traffic signals or lights are perfect for winter conditions thanks to their energy efficiency and ability to remain bright and visible in snow, fog, or freezing rain. Some examples of traffic signals that can help direct traffic in wintery conditions are LED barricade lights, traffic cone lights, and Whelen directional light bars.
Intelligent Traffic
Intelligent traffic systems such as driver feedback radar and flashing signs are another way to manage winter traffic. They’re often powered by a mounted solar panel which keeps them working year round.
Temporary Barriers and Barricades
Temporary barriers and barricades help manage traffic during winter construction projects. Their bright colors and reflective surfaces make them easy to spot, helping to direct drivers safely around hazards or road closures. Proper placement of these barriers is necessary to maintain smooth traffic flow and prevent accidents on icy or snow-covered roads.
Personal Safety Gear
Construction workers are more vulnerable to accidents or injuries during winter. Personal safety gear—such as reflective gloves, vests, and hard hats—is as important as road signage and equipment. Cold temperatures, limited visibility, and icy conditions create additional hazards, which is why proper gear is vital and legally required for safety and preparedness.
High-Visibility Clothing
When daylight hours are shorter and weather conditions can impede visibility, high-visibility clothing can make all the difference for construction workers. Warm and weather-resistant reflective jackets, vests, pants, and gloves are designed to make workers more visible to drivers in snowy or foggy conditions as well as keep them comfortable. By wearing bright, reflective gear, workers can reduce the risk of accidents while performing tasks near busy roads. Reflective gear is also legally required by OSHA standards.
First Aid Kits
An emergency preparedness kit for large teams is another strategy to boost the safety of all personnel at a construction site. At a minimum, each kit should contain essential first aid supplies, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, along with specialized items like splints and burn ointment for specific injuries. In addition to medical supplies, the kit should include personal protective equipment (PPE) like hard hats, safety goggles, and gloves to safeguard workers during emergencies.
Regularly inspecting and updating these kits will also better prepare workers to handle unforeseen situations, ultimately fostering a safer work environment.
Other Personal Protective Gear
It’s vital not to overlook additional protective gear that can significantly help keep workers safe. For example, noise-reduction earplugs can prevent hearing damage from loud machinery and tools, while hard hats protect against head injuries. Safety glasses are also vital, as they guard workers from flying dirt, debris, and harmful UV rays that can reflect off snow and ice. Each piece of equipment contributes to a safer work environment for each individual at the work site.
Invest in the Right Road Safety Equipment for Winter
If you’re looking for the right road safety in winter, Interwest Safety Supply has what you need. We’ve supplied highway signs and safety products to the government and construction industry for over 40 years. We are your trusted source for winter safety solutions.
Visit Interwest Safety today to invest in the protection you need for your construction project and to see more winter road safety tips.
