When working on a construction site, it is important to take traffic safety into consideration. There are many potential hazards that can occur when vehicles and pedestrians are both sharing the same space in close proximity. By following these seven safety tips, you can help to ensure that traffic is managed safely and efficiently on and around your construction site.
1. Establish a traffic management plan before construction begins
Planning out your construction traffic management strategy in advance will help to ensure that construction traffic flows smoothly and safely. When it comes to construction traffic management plans, make sure to take into account the different types of vehicles that will be present on the site and the expected arrival and departure times of workers, vendors, and deliveries.
One-way traffic systems can help to reduce traffic congestion and the risk of accidents on construction sites. If possible, designate separate routes for incoming and outgoing traffic, as well as vehicles and pedestrians. This will help to keep traffic moving in an efficient and safe manner.
Planning things out with a construction traffic management plan will also help determine the flow of traffic during construction, as well as pedestrian routes and safe areas.
2. Place warning signs at all entrances to the construction site
Visibility is key when it comes to traffic safety at construction sites.
Warning signs should be placed at all entrances to the site, as well as along pedestrian routes. These signs should be brightly coloured and easy to read, with clear instructions on how to safely navigate the construction area.
A VMS Sign Board with Speed Radar, for instance, is a great solution for high-traffic construction locations. This will also help designate construction vehicle-only entrances and exits to reduce the risk of civilian vehicles entering the site.
3. Place traffic cones or barricades around the perimeter of the construction site
Funnel traffic into the designated routes by placing traffic cones or barricades around the perimeter of the construction site. This will help to keep construction vehicles and pedestrians separate, as well as direct traffic flow in an efficient and controlled manner.
4. Use traffic control devices
Put traffic safety systems in place to help control traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents. These devices can include things like stop/slow signs, yield signs, traffic lights, and road markings. You may also want to consider hiring traffic control officers to help direct traffic around the construction site during hours of operation.
If you are conducting nighttime operations, make sure to use reflective traffic devices and adequate lighting to increase visibility – such as a Mobile Solar Street Lamp or Portable Lighting Tower – as well as flares to keep traffic in designated lanes.
Commit to regularly checking the traffic management equipment to make sure that they are in good working order, making sure to replace any damaged or missing signs, cones, or pedestrian barricades as soon as possible.
5. Make sure that all workers on the construction site are aware of the traffic management plan
All workers on the construction site should be aware of the traffic management plan and their responsibility to follow it. Make sure to conduct regular safety meetings to go over the traffic plan and remind workers of the importance of following it. You may also want to consider giving workers high-visibility vests or clothing to help them stay visible when working near traffic areas.
6. Be prepared to adjust the traffic management plan as work on the construction site progresses
As construction work progresses, the traffic management plan may need to be adjusted to accommodate changes on the site. Be prepared to make changes to the plan as needed, and make sure to alert workers of any changes that are made. When traffic management forms part of a proactive and comprehensive plan, it helps ensure that workers are well-informed about their roles and responsibilities in maintaining site safety.
Also, be sure to take into account any feedback from workers or contractors, and make changes to the plan as necessary. Regular review will help to ensure that the traffic management plan remains effective and safe for all parties involved.
7. When construction is finished, remove all traffic control devices and warning signs
This may seem like an obvious step, but it’s important to remember to remove all traffic control devices and warning signs when construction is finished. Leaving them in place can create confusion for drivers and pedestrians, and can also give the impression that construction is still ongoing. Be sure to clean up the construction site completely before leaving it unattended.
Put your trust in United Rentals for your next project
Following these safety tips will help to ensure that traffic flow is managed safely and effectively on your construction site. Proactive traffic management plans ensure reduced risks of accidents and injuries, helping you keep your construction projects on schedule.
For all your traffic management needs, trust United Rentals. We have a wide range of traffic control devices and systems that can be customized to fit your construction site. Our team of experts can also provide you with guidance on the best way to manage traffic flow on your site, based on your specific needs.
Contact us today at 1800 UR HIRE to learn more about our services, or request a quote online.