Prevent work zone-related incidents

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:

• 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.