Work Zone Safety: The Most Important Ingredient in the Mix

This article reminds readers of the vital components of work zone safety. The authors first review some of the statistics showing that an average of 963 highway construction zone fatalities occur in the United States each year. Hazards in highway work zones are primarily traffic-related, including vehicle traffic from the public, construction vehicles, and other construction equipment. The authors then describe the safety training that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) provide, as well as online resources for more information and training. They include a brief section about the unique challenges of nighttime paving operations, for both quality and safety. The authors conclude by encouraging readers to review and update their safe work zone practices.