Safer Work Zones: Education and innovation may help move the needle

Despite state-level efforts to reduce injuries in roadway work zones, the United States has not experienced a sustained reduction in fatalities. States and road construction employers are turning to technology for help. Innovations such as queue warning systems, automated flaggers and mobile barriers are being implemented to help reduce work zone incidents. The American Road and Transportation Builders Association has also launched a safety certification for transportation project professionals to create a national baseline for work zone professionals. This will help ensure those who make critical safety decisions can demonstrate basic understanding of transportation construction-related hazards.