Elements of Training

Employers must communicate safety standards and procedures to employees. Possible subjects to consider for these communications may include the following:

• How to follow safety-oriented standard operating procedures
• The importance of constant vigilance in the active roadway work zone
• How and when to use personal protective equipment (PPE)
• The importance of TTC compliance and safe equipment operation
• Safe practices for setting up and tearing down TTC devices that designate a roadway work zone
• Understanding the internal traffic control plan (ITCP)
• How to use first aid and how to respond in a work zone emergency

Employers must train all employees and work zone visitors to recognize and avoid the hazards of working on foot around moving vehicles and equipment.

In addition, employers should review both the TTC and the ITCP for each work site with those who will be present in the work area. If changes are made to either plan, employers should update the workers about these changes.

As a best practice, work zone supervisors should be accountable for the identification, reduction, and reporting of any hazards that may be present. In this way, an employer can promote a culture of safety across the working area.

In general, it is important to never assume that a person knows how to work safely. All people present in the dangerous environment of a roadway work zone must understand what is expected of them in terms of acting safely and avoiding hazards.

To learn more about Roadway Work Zones visit our Worker Safety in Roadway Work Zones Online Training web page.