Work Zones

Who's Responsible for Work Zone Safety?
Everyone. We all are responsible for driving, biking and walking, safely through work zones. Engineers and road crews are responsible for designing and operating the work zone properly -- with safety in mind. Drivers and pedestrians must always be alert and obey the traffic laws. Passengers should always buckle up and act responsibly. Police and the courts must ensure that traffic and work zone laws are enforced. Public safety agencies are responsible for responding to and securing crash locations and enforcing traffic laws. Local communities and county and state governments need to allocate funding for safe roads and increase public awareness about work zone safety. For work zones to be safer, everyone must take responsibility.

How Safe Are Your Work Zones?

• Are employees concerned about their own safety?
• Do employees constantly and consistently wear reflectorized safety vests? Do they fit?
• Are all vehicles equipped with flashing lights? Are they used?
• Do you have enough channeling devices (cones, drums, barricades, etc.) and signs for each crew to properly set up a work zone? Are they clean and legible? Do they convey a clear message?
• Do flaggers have the proper tools and attire? Are flaggers alert and effective?
• Are you following MUTCD guidelines? Do you have a copy of Part 6 of the MUTCD for Temporary Traffic Control and the California Supplement?
• Has your crew been trained on the proper procedures for work zone traffic control?
• Do you regularly inform the public of work zone locations? Does your organization have a work zone policy?

If the person in charge of work zone safety cannot answer "yes" to all of these questions, there is an accident and a lawsuit waiting to happen. The supervisor should take time to check out work zones, attend a work zone class, train his or her crew, and make sure necessary materials are on hand to properly set up, operate and take down the work zone. It is in everyone's best interest to protect the worker and the public.

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