Safety
The right
protection Proper work zone setup and training increase site safety says Mark Ludewig
C
onstruction can be a serious risk when work zones are near or on roadways and motorists do not respect the work zone. Guiding the public through these sites in a safe and efficient manner depends on proper setup and training. Motorists may be required to navigate through complex work zones with an array of signs, barrels and lane changes. When drivers are not paying attention, it can lead to a dangerous outcome. Likewise, an ineffective work zone setup and/or lack of preparation only invites greater risks. The following recommendations can help you plan proper construction work zones and improve safety. While each zone is different and deserves careful consideration, these guidelines generally apply to all job sites.
The cardinal rules of work zone safety There are basic rules that should be applied to setting up and protecting any work zone. In combination these measures create a stronger defense against the unpredictable by keeping eyes - and minds - on risks at all times. Critical considerations include: l A detailed hazard assessment delivered as part of a pre-job safety briefing l The use of visual/audible traffic control PPE designated for the project
The use of proper safety equipment such as arrow and message boards l An on-site Qualified Traffic Observer (a protector/flagger) to alert people to danger l
Safety briefing The pre-job safety briefing is a meeting with members of the work crew to discuss the type and phasing of the work being performed, hazards in and around the work area, configuration of the work zone, set-up of the work zone, temporary traffic controls and other protections utilized, emergency signals and procedures, and all STOP WORK procedures. A briefing should ALWAYS be completed at the beginning of EVERY job before setting up the work zone for that day. A new safety briefing should also be completed with each shift change or if the work assignment changes, if environmental conditions change, when new personnel come aboard, or as additional work site hazards are identified.
PPE Every work site demands the selection, use and care of appropriate PPE for each affected worker who is responsible for having these items at all times, maintaining issued items and using them when applicable. This includes: construction-today.com
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