Improving Road Worker Safety on the M1

The M1 Pacific Motorway in Australia is a critical route connecting Sydney with Newcastle, but poses significant risks to road workers due to live traffic conditions. In collaboration with Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) and iMOVE, Deakin University conducted research to enhance worker safety. The project aimed to identify technologies and methods to mitigate risks and recommend safety measures for future trials. Through phases including literature review, worker interviews, and expert consultations, the study uncovered various challenges and potential solutions. Findings emphasized the importance of technological advancements, particularly in smart motorway systems. Recommendations were categorized for temporary traffic management, alternative work methods, and asset inspection, urging consideration of site-specific factors and regulatory approvals for implementation.