When springtime arrives, so does the traffic. It’s not unusual for families and individuals to go on outings or vacations during this period. However, the uptick in traffic can cause delays or other safety issues for roadside construction projects. That is why it’s important to have proper safety and traffic equipment to help manage roadside construction and protect workers and drivers.
Expect Spring Traffic Issues
Warmer weather typically invites more drivers on the road. Events like spring break, outdoor festivals, and sports seasons contribute to heavier traffic volumes. This is especially true on weekends and in tourist areas.
This surge in traffic can be an issue for roadside construction projects resulting in the following:
- Reduced Driver Reaction Time: Crowded roads leave less room for error, increasing the likelihood of accidents near construction zones.
- Distractions Behind the Wheel: Drivers navigating unfamiliar detours or reacting to unexpected signs may be less attentive.
- Visibility Concerns: Weather can still be unpredictable in the early spring, resulting in rain or fog, which reduces visibility for drivers and workers.
The combination of these factors underscores the importance of well-planned safety measures and establishing clear communication through signage, protective safety barriers, and high-visibility reflective gear. Doing so will mitigate risks and promote worker and driver safety during this busy season.
Protect Workers with Reflective Gear
There are many ways to protect workers from traffic-related injuries, like holding frequent safety trainings or certifications to help construction workers stay focused and refreshed. Likewise, using proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as reflective gear, can reduce or prevent accidents and injuries. Let’s look at some simple but effective PPE:
- Reflective vests (including all forms of reflective gear or clothing)
- Hard hats
- Safety glasses/visors
- Ear protection
- Gloves
Implement Roadside Construction Safety Equipment
Protecting roadside construction workers and drivers involves implementing traffic equipment such as warning signs and barriers. These serve as a warning for drivers to watch out for workers, slow down, and drive cautiously. Let’s break down some of this traffic safety equipment.
Construction Signs
Construction signs are the first line of defense in maintaining safety and order in roadside work zones. Their primary role is to alert drivers, guide traffic, and reduce the risk of accidents by clearly communicating hazards and changes in road conditions.
Types of Construction Signs
- Warning Signs: These include “Road Work Ahead,” “Lane Closed,” “Uneven Road,” “Bump,” and “Men Working” signs, designed to inform drivers about upcoming construction zones or altered road conditions.
- Directional Signs: Arrows and detour signs help redirect traffic efficiently, reducing confusion and congestion.
- Speed Limit Signs: Temporary speed adjustments near construction zones encourage drivers to slow down, creating a safer environment for workers and other motorists.
Tips for Signage Placement and Use
The effectiveness of a construction sign depends on its correct implementation. Remember these tips when using construction signs in your project.
- Position Signs Strategically: Place signs well before roadside construction zones to give drivers ample time to adjust, particularly on high-speed roads. Verify placement is consistent with state and federal guidelines.
- Ensure Signs Are Visible: Signs should be large, reflective, and placed at eye level for maximum readability during any light condition. Double-check that signs are readable in low-light or inclement weather.
- Regularly Maintain Signs: Keep signs clean and free of damage so they remain legible throughout the project’s duration.
- Use Electronic Message Boards: For dynamic updates, such as changing lane closures or delays, electronic message boards provide real-time information to drivers.
Safety Barriers
Barriers are necessary to roadside construction safety, serving as a physical and visual deterrent that separates work zones from active traffic. They protect workers from vehicular intrusion, guide motorists safely through altered traffic patterns, and minimize the risk of accidents in high-risk areas.
Types of Safety Barriers
- Concrete Barriers: Durable and effective for long-term projects, these safety barriers provide maximum protection but are less flexible for repositioning.
- Water-Filled Barriers: You can fill these lightweight and easy-to-deploy barriers on-site for added stability, making them ideal for temporary projects.
- Impact Attenuators: Also known as crash cushions, these safety devices direct and separate traffic from construction areas, while simultaneously absorbing impact energy to safeguard drivers and workers.
- Collapsible Barriers: Designed for quick setup and removal, these barriers are effective in low-affected zones or as temporary measures during emergencies.
- Barrier Tape and Cones: While not physical barriers, these items offer visual cues to drivers and are suitable for low-traffic or short-duration projects.
Best Practices for Safety Barrier Placement
- Strategic Placement: Position barriers to create a clear separation between work areas and traffic lanes. Use them to define detours or lane shifts.
- Consider Visibility: Equip barriers with reflective strips, lights, or flags to enhance visibility, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions.
- Regular Inspections: Verify that barriers stay intact and in position during the project. Repair or replace damaged barriers promptly to maintain their effectiveness.
Driver Feedback Signs
Driver feedback signs are dynamic tools designed to improve safety in construction zones by providing real-time information to drivers. These signs typically display messages or vehicle speeds encouraging motorists to adjust their behavior to match the road conditions ahead.
Types of Driver Feedback Signs
- Speed Radar Signs: These signs show drivers their current speed compared to the posted limit, prompting them to slow down if necessary.
- Variable Message Boards (VMBs): These display customizable messages about lane closures, delays, or detour routes, allowing for real-time updates based on changing conditions.
- Warning Alerts: This notifies drivers when they approach hazardous areas too quickly, such as sharp curves or abrupt stops near construction zones.
Benefits of Driver Feedback Signs
- Increased Driver Awareness: Real-time feedback grabs attention, making drivers more aware of their speed and behavior.
- Behavior Modification: Studies show that feedback signs can reduce speeding drivers, especially with visible enforcement.
- Enhanced Flexibility: You can quickly update variable signs to address immediate concerns, such as weather-related delays or additional hazards.
Best Practices for Use
- Strategic Placement: Like construction signs, position feedback signs at key points, such as the beginning of a roadside construction zone or near merging lanes, to maximize visibility and impact.
- High Visibility: Use bright LED displays and reflective gear for optimal readability day and night.
- Timely Updates: Regularly review and update messages to inform drivers of current conditions.
Looking for Construction Supplies? Interwest Safety Has You Covered
Interwest Safety is your one-stop shop for construction safety supplies, from reflective gear and traffic signs to safety barriers. Government and highway construction companies have relied on us for over 40 years to supply quality traffic safety equipment. Make Interwest Safety your first stop today.
