Excellent Workzone Safety Tips Come From Iowa DOT Engineer

In the realm of work zone safety, where motorists often overlook warning signs, innovative strategies are essential to mitigate risks and prevent accidents. Steve J. Gent, P.E., a traffic and safety engineer at the Iowa Department of Transportation, offers valuable insights garnered from the Work Zone Safety Tip Contest, organized by Public Works Online. Gent emphasizes the effectiveness of simple yet impactful measures, such as strategically placing orange cones to signal lane shifts and incorporating orange safety fences on the backs of snow plows to enhance visibility and awareness. These solutions address common challenges, including the lack of advance warning devices and the risk of collisions with slow-moving vehicles, especially on high-speed roadways. By integrating these practical tips, transportation agencies can significantly enhance work zone safety and safeguard both workers and motorists.