Principle 5: Maintain Roadside Safety

The busy nature of a work zone can result in areas that are confusing and messy. Those responsible for the roadway construction zone must manage the shoulder throughout the construction period to ensure safety. For example, in each of the following situations, a clear shoulder area would aid in ensuring a safe outcome:

• A driver misses a lane closure and, to avoid a temporary barrier, runs off the road onto the shoulder.
• A vehicle has mechanical issues and the driver must make a quick move to roll off of the pavement onto the shoulder.
• An icy patch sends a vehicle into a spin and off of the pavement into the shoulder area, facing backwards.
• An emergency responder driving at a high speed must use the shoulder to bypass a congested area.

Maintain roadside safety by planning carefully for the storage of work equipment, the vehicles of workers, building materials, and construction debris. Positive planning can help to keep the shoulder area clear.

To learn more about Roadway Temporary Traffic Control visit our Construction Roadway Temporary Traffic Control Online Training web page.