Between March and May, Autumn weather changes and construction is ramping up in between two showers. Wet and warm conditions could last at least until next month. And, showers often bring accidents and dangerous conditions. So, if your construction or contracting company is planning a roadwork project that requires traffic control services, follow these tips to ensure your road work zone safety.
Working in the Rain
Construction workers can safely work in a mild, occasional sprinkle because it is unlikely to cause the surface to get puddles or damage the composite mixture. And, although an occasional rain may delay curing time for a short duration, it is not likely to damage the asphalt.
A heavy downpour can obstruct the visibility of the construction workers. And, rain can make it difficult for drivers to see the construction crew. An unexpected storm creates dangers due to poor visibility and flooding.
PPE
The crew needs to be wearing rain gear or reflectors to increase their safety. Wearing proper rain gear keeps workers comfortable so they can focus on their job. All workers in a traffic control zone must wear high-visibility / reflective clothing. As rain makes things slippery, workers should wear footwear with extra tread to help prevent falls and slips and gloves with a slip-proof grip to hold traffic control signs and tools in the work zone.
Waterproof Equipment
The equipment the workers use in the work zone must be rated for outdoor use in the rain. And, tools with extra grip are very helpful.
Do Not Speed
You might be tempted to rush as working in rainy weather is rather uncomfortable. However, take extra caution to avoid slips, falls and accidents, as they could put yourself, your co-workers and drivers in danger.
Be Aware Of The Drivers
Rain impacts visibility distance, pavement friction, lane obstruction, vehicle performance and speed control. Be extra aware of the drivers in the work zone as they can potentially be unprepared to make the adjustments to their driving to be safe.
Use Traffic Control Equipment
The risk of a traffic controller’s job increases in rainy conditions. So, having the proper traffic control equipment in your work zone takes traffic controllers off the front lines and increases visibility to drivers. At Absolute Traffic Management, we provide traffic safety equipment rental to create a safe environment for road users and road workers.
Be Prepared With a Solid Plan
It is essential for road construction projects to have a reliable and detailed plan. Some councils may require this plan to be approved. Our team of experts can ensure that your plan meets all the criteria. We include the proper details to protect your workers by safely conducting traffic pacing around or through the work zone. We also can help ensure you have a traffic control plan for inside the work zone that manages the flow of heavy equipment, construction vehicles, and workers.
Take Compliance Seriously
Compliance should come first this autumn when you shop for traffic safety equipment rental. All traffic control devices, whether it’s cones, barrels, barriers or signs, should comply with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) along with any state agency requirements. Adhering to these regulations will decrease the possibility of worksite accidents and fines. At Absolute Traffic Management, all our devices comply with the Australian standards.
Safety First: Our #1 Priority
Safety is at the forefront of everything we do. The safety of road workers and users is our number one priority. As a team manager, make sure safety measures are understood by your teams with quick safety meetings when starting the workday to decrease workplace accidents. It helps your team understand the proper use of traffic safety equipment rental and decrease avoidable accidents.
And, get ready: June usually is the wettest month in Sydney. So, read our advices to drive safe in winter.
Finally, contact Absolute Traffic Management for traffic control services and check out our other blog posts for more information. And, remember: rain, hail or shine ATM will be there!
