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Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse

Library of Resources to Improve Roadway Work Zone Safety for All Roadway Users

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Publication

Worker Safety in Very Short Duration Work Zone Operations: State of Practice and Risk Management Process

Author/Presenter: Wang, Li; Kolahdoozan, Sami; Seedah, Dan; Leite, Fernanda; Machemehl, Randy B.
Abstract:

Very short duration maintenance operations (VSDOs) last for 15 minutes or less and usually involve operations such as removing an object from the roadway (either on the pavement or adjacent shoulder) or pothole patching. These activities have the potential to interrupt traffic flow and can pose a safety risk for both workers and drivers. Specific guidance for VSDOs is undocumented and workers tend to use their own judgment in making critical time sensitive decisions. Identifying risk factors in VSDOs helps maintenance workers better judge the immediate conditions and make more informed decisions on whether to conduct an operation as a VSDO or not. This study sought to define a VSDO and identify typical VSDOs. In addition, this study identified risk factors that maintenance workers may face during VSDOs. Moreover, this study prepared a list of technologies and methods for minimizing risk to workers in VSDOs. This study also presented a risk management process that enables maintenance workers to identify work zone hazards for VSDOs and improve their judgment about work zone conditions and hazards. Multiple scenarios illustrating the risks were presented, and related safety recommendations were also discussed.

Publisher: The University of Texas at Austin, Center for Transportation Research
Publication Date: 2013
Full Text URL: Link to URL
Notes:

An Educational Module and a Safety Guidebook accompanying this report is available at https://library.ctr.utexas.edu/digitized/products/0-6640-P2/6640-P2.zip.

Publication Types: Books, Reports, Papers, and Research Articles
Topics: Short Duration; Standards; Temporary Traffic Control; Worker Safety

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