National Work Zone Awareness Week is April 11-15. This year’s theme is “Work zones are a sign to slow down.”
In 2019, 762 fatal crashes occurred in work zones, resulting in 842 deaths – 135 of which were workers, according to data provided by WorkZoneSafety.org.
Help stay safe when stationed in a work zone. CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training has tips:
- Digital Partners -
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Make eye contact with the operator, flagger or spotter before walking in front of or behind a vehicle in a work zone.
- Stay where other workers can clearly see you.
- Obey any posted safety signs.
- Listen for horns and back-up alarms.
- Wear high-visibility clothing.
- Look out for your fellow workers.
Are you operating a vehicle in a work zone? CPWR has tips for you, too:
- Avoid backing up whenever possible. Park so you can pull in and out by driving forward.
- Make sure mirrors are clean and positioned properly.
- Obey posted signs.
- Follow designated travel routes.
- Turn off distracting devices.
- Check blind spots before moving.
- Follow spotter and flagger directions. Stop if you lose sight of the spotter.
- Wear your seat belt.
- Always use the back-up alarm or beep your horn twice before reversing.
- Don’t back up more than 100 feet before stopping and checking that the area is still clear.
- Keep windows open so you can see and hear workers and others nearby.
