Roadway Work Zone Awareness

Key Hazards

• Workers struck by passing traffic
• Drivers entering or ignoring the work zone
• Poor visibility from curves, hills, darkness, weather, or glare
• Confusing or incomplete traffic control setup
• Workers standing in blind spots or unprotected areas
• Equipment, trucks, and workers moving in tight roadway spaces

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Roadway work zones expose workers to moving traffic, equipment, pedestrians, and changing conditions. Even short-duration work can become dangerous when drivers do not slow down or understand the setup.

Traffic control should be planned before workers enter the roadway. Signs, cones, barrels, vehicles, arrow boards, flaggers, and barriers should guide drivers clearly around the work.

Visibility is one of the most important controls. Drivers need enough time to see the work zone, understand what is happening, and react safely.

Workers should wear high-visibility clothing and position themselves where they can be seen. Standing in shadows, blind spots, curves, or behind equipment can reduce visibility.

Workers should avoid turning their backs to traffic when possible. A lookout, spotter, protective vehicle, or barrier may be needed depending on the road speed and traffic volume.

Work vehicles and equipment should be positioned to support the traffic control plan. Poor placement can block signs, confuse drivers, or expose workers.

Conditions should be reassessed during the job. Weather, daylight, traffic volume, equipment movement, and work location can all change the work zone risk.

Roadway work zone awareness means staying alert even when traffic control is in place. The crew should never assume every driver sees the work zone or will respond correctly.

Safety Reminders

• Plan traffic control before work begins.
• Wear high-visibility clothing.
• Place signs and devices where drivers can see them early.
• Stay out of unprotected traffic lanes and blind spots.
• Use spotters, lookouts, or protective vehicles when needed.
• Keep equipment and vehicles from blocking traffic control devices.
• Reassess the work zone as conditions change.

Ask the Crew

• Can approaching drivers see the work zone early enough?
• Is the traffic control layout clear and complete?
• Are workers visible and protected from traffic?
• Could curves, hills, darkness, weather, or glare affect visibility?
• Does the setup need to change as the work moves?