Roadway Work Zone Safety
The Problem
Roadwork zones are among the most hazardous environments for workers. Every year, road workers are struck by vehicles or injured due to unsafe practices in and around these zones. The combination of high-speed traffic, heavy machinery, and reduced visibility makes vigilance and planning critical. Today, we’ll discuss the hazards associated with roadway work zones and how we can prevent injuries and fatalities by following best practice and WorkSafe NZ guidelines.
Identify the Hazards
- Traffic Hazards: Speeding, distracted, or impaired drivers entering the work zone. Poor visibility at night or in bad weather.
- Poor Work Zone Layout: Inadequate signage, cones, or barriers leading to confusion or unsafe access.
- Heavy Equipment: Workers struck by vehicles or mobile plant operating inside the work zone.
- Distractions: Workers not paying attention to their surroundings or reversing equipment.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Plan and Set Up the Work Zone Correctly
- Use compliant temporary traffic management (TTM) systems, including cones, barriers, signage, and detours.
- Establish appropriate buffer zones and clearly delineate safe working areas.
- Place advance warning signs at suitable distances to alert approaching drivers.
- Follow NZTA’s Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management (CoPTTM) requirements.
Wear the Right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- High-visibility garments meeting AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standards must be worn at all times.
- Use safety footwear, gloves, hard hats, and hearing protection where necessary.
Traffic Management
- Ensure a trained and certified Site Traffic Management Supervisor (STMS) oversees the traffic management plan.
- Designate trained traffic controllers to safely manage vehicle flows.
- Review traffic management plans regularly to ensure they are site-specific and effective.
Safe Operation of Machinery
- Use trained spotters when operating plant or vehicles around pedestrians.
- Ensure vehicles have reversing alarms, mirrors, and beacon lights.
- Maintain communication between workers and operators, especially near blind spots.
Stay Alert and Aware
- Avoid using mobile phones or earphones in active work areas.
- Always face traffic and be aware of moving vehicles and machinery.
- Never assume a driver or machine operator has seen you.
Emergency Planning
- Establish an emergency response plan and make sure all workers know what to do.
- Ensure the location of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency contacts is communicated clearly.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A traffic worker was fatally struck by a car when a temporary roadwork site was left unmarked after a shift. Without barriers or signs, drivers were unaware of workers ahead. This tragic incident could have been avoided through proper planning, communication, and following CoPTTM.
Employee Responsibilities
- Wear the required PPE at all times.
- Remain alert and follow all traffic control protocols.
- Report hazards, faulty equipment, or missing signage immediately.
- Comply with instructions from the STMS and traffic controllers.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide compliant PPE and traffic control equipment.
- Develop and implement a traffic management plan in line with CoPTTM.
- Ensure all workers are trained and competent to work in roadwork zones.
- Conduct site audits and inspections to maintain safety standards.
Discussion & Questions
- "What traffic hazards have you noticed in our current work zones?"
- "Are there ways we can improve visibility or worker protection on-site?"
Encourage workers to raise concerns, share near-miss events, or suggest improvements.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit today to checking our work areas for traffic hazards, ensuring all traffic management devices are in place, and staying alert at all times. Everyone plays a part in maintaining a safe roadwork environment.
Wrap-Up
Roadwork zones are high-risk, but with clear planning, proper PPE, and attention to traffic management, injuries can be prevented. Thank you for your focus and commitment to safety.
Standards Overview
- Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA): Requires PCBUs to eliminate or minimise risks to health and safety so far as is reasonably practicable.
- NZTA CoPTTM: Provides the mandatory guidelines for safe temporary traffic management on roads in New Zealand.
- AS/NZS 4602.1:2011: Specifies the requirements for high-visibility safety garments.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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