Workzones: One Step from Death

In 2001, work-zone fatalities in motor vehicle traffic crashes reached a staggering 1,079, according to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse. That figure is up dramatically from 1998, when 772 fatalities were reported. The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries reported that workers were as likely to be struck by a construction vehicle as by a passing traffic vehicle. The MUTCD recommends but doesn’t require a traffic control plan (TCP). In most states, it’s standard practice for the contracting agency to develop the TCP, which describes traffic controls used to move vehicle and pedestrian traffic through the work-zone area. General contractors in some cases, however, believe they can create a TCP that is safer for their employees than the plan written by the agency. This often leads to problems. Another problem with work-zone safety is the use of improper worker garments and a lack of training. Work-zone accidents can be prevented and lives can be saved. The first step is compliance.