Motorway construction zones are dangerous not only for drivers, but also for workers who build, repair and maintain roads, highways, and bridges. The road can be very hazardous and carries different risks from working in car parks, secondary roads or driveways.
Why is it so dangerous to work on the highway?
The speed of traffic around the highway works zone is one of the reasons that working on the highway can be so dangerous. Vehicles are moving so fast that it is very likely they will cause serious injury or damage as a result. It is also impossible to control the driving behaviour of all motorists. A number of factors can contribute to the dangers, including speeding, driver fatigue and driving under the influence. Other risks include bad weather, poor visibility, large trucks, or trailers. These factors make it more dangerous to drive on highways.
Take the necessary precautions
It is important to take all the precautions possible when working on highways to protect the workers and the members of the public who are around you. The supervisor on site must also be vigilant in monitoring the changing conditions along the highway. The risk of accidents increases when working in bad weather because drivers have less visibility and the roads are slick.
What can you do to work safely on highways? You can improve the safety of employees while working on the roads by doing a few things. Keep in mind these important points:
Slowing down drivers
The speed of drivers is a major cause of injuries and accidents. Although it is difficult to influence the driving habits of every driver, there are some ways to encourage them to slow down when they pass your crew.
There are often procedures to close lanes, so you should make sure you follow the minimum requirements. You can also use other safeguards to protect your workers, including arrow boards and shadow vehicles. Other options include trunk-mounted attenuators or slow moving vehicle signs. They will alert drivers to road work that are taking place, and they will be able to drive more cautiously. For Chapter 8 chevrons, contact www.pvluk.com/chapter-8-chevrons
Regular Maintenance and Equipment Training
In road construction, there are many types of large equipment and vehicles, including hydraulic excavators. These large machines come with their own set of risks. All employees who work on vehicles and machines must be fully certified and trained to operate them.
It is also important that this equipment be regularly tested and maintained at a high level. Wear and tear can cause equipment to malfunction, which can lead to serious injuries or accidents. Maintain your equipment according to a schedule and ensure that you follow it correctly. Make sure that any maintenance performed on the equipment is documented in writing, signed by the person who did the maintenance.
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