Better weather means an increase in highway construction projects across the U.S., with a corresponding increase in danger for those working on those projects.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) says that highway improvement projects being performed on roadways that are open to traffic are expanding as the nation’s highway infrastructure ages and agencies focus on rebuilding existing roadways instead of building new ones.

More traffic, more night work

“At the same time, traffic continues to grow and creates more congestion,” according to the FHWA. "This combination of more work zones, heavier traffic, and greater reliance on night work results in increased risk for highway workers.”

The agency recommends the following for reducing hazards for workers:

• high-visibility apparel
• worker training
• activity area planning
• speed control
• positive separation
• lighting
• worker safety planning
• special traffic control devices

Click here for details on these.

Already keeping your highway workers safe?

The American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) is accepting nominations for the 2014 “Roadway Work Zone Safety Awareness Awards” which recognize the outstanding safety efforts of both public and private-sector organizations involved in building the U.S. transportation network.

Nominations are accepted in three categories:  

Outreach Campaigns– Honors the efforts of national, state and local private sector organizations, such as construction companies, utility companies or trade associations, which promote roadway work zone safety through implementation of employee and/or public education campaigns and training programs.

Worker Training– Recognizes national, state and local training programs by public or private sector organizations aimed at creating a culture of safety or expanding safety knowledge for those who work in roadway construction zones.

Innovations in Technology - Honors manufacturers of equipment and products that use innovative technology to improve safety for motorists and workers in and around roadway work zones.

All nominations must be submitted online by July 18. The competition is open to all interested individuals and organizations.  Winners will be recognized at a special luncheon during the ARTBA National Convention, held September 7-9, 2014 in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.