Roadside construction sites pose a unique set of challenges for crew safety. Workers need to be aware of hazards in the worksite such as moving machinery and equipment as well as the increased risk of incidents posed by passing vehicles. Follow these three key steps to minimize roadside construction incidents and maximize safety for both your construction crew and motorists.
Establish Proper Perimeters
A proper perimeter is crucial for both worker and motorist safety. Perimeters within the worksite guide crew movement and establish safe walking paths that divert workers from hazardous areas. They also provide a sufficient buffer around the worksite that minimizes the risk of incidents by providing ample space to safely carry out work.
Safety barriers, cones and signage are crucial to manage traffic flow by providing clear indications where worksites begin and end. Use advance warning signs to indicate upcoming changes in driving speed, lane closures and detours to ensure traffic flows smoothly. Termination areas should signal the end of construction zones, allowing traffic to resume to normal.
Dress for Success
Ensure your crew has these pieces of essential roadside construction PPE:
High-Visibility Clothing: Hi-vis clothing should be worn at all times to enhance worker visibility for both the construction crew and passing vehicles, especially during low-light work hours.
Ear Protection: Prolonged, unprotected exposure to machinery and traffic noise can cause irreversible hearing damage, so proper fitting earmuffs or earplugs are a must.
Footwear and Gloves: Steel-toed boots are the best way to protect feet and toes from falling objects, missteps or moving machinery. Durable gloves are essential for protecting hands during potentially hazardous manual tasks.
Is your team’s PPE fit for the job? Bunzl Safety offers PPE fit testing to ensure all workers are safe AND comfortable in their essential protective gear.
Hazard Training
Before roadside construction begins, all crew members must be properly trained on potential worksite hazards and incident prevention. Training should include an overview of company safety policies, traffic control plans, equipment training, emergency first aid plans and more!
Remember – safety is everyone’s responsibility. Providing your crew with expert knowledge and the right equipment helps build a culture of safety to ensure roadside worksites are safe for workers and the public. Visit shopbunzlsafety.ca and pave the way to better roadside safety!
