Regional manager of ATS Traffic Jamie Meegan said speed and distracted driving are major threats to roadside worker safety, adding that he sees multiple drivers use their phone and other devices while driving through a work zone.
Road Safety at Work is reminding the public that winter weather is driving the surge in urgent roadside repairs across the province, and with crews just feet from oncoming vehicles, there are higher risks implied.
Road Safety at Work is WorkSafeBC’s Injury Reduction Initiative managed by the Justice Institute of B.C. It aims to eliminate work-related motor vehicle crashes, deaths and injuries in the province.
In the interior region, including the Shuswap area, Meegan said winter weather can turn an already risky job into a dangerous one.
“Passing large rigs throw up a lot of mist, slush, and snow, creating disturbances that pull the air along with them and interfere with the work and lessen visibility,” he said. “Snow piles up on the roads so shoulders and a safe place to pull over disappear.”
Tracey Acres, spokesperson for Road Safety at Work added that much of the work cannot wait until the weather warms up. “Work zones require drivers to process more information at any time of the year,” Acres said. “Add winter weather and distraction, and the margin for error disappears very quickly.”
So what can drivers do to keep roadside workers safe?
- Slow down when approaching a work zone and drive at or below the posted speed limit.
- Pay attention and leave your phone alone.
- Obey road signs, traffic control devices, and traffic control people.
- Stay alert. Visibility may be reduced by weather or darkness.
- Follow directions and be patient. Delays are temporary but injuries can be permanent.
- Give workers as much space as possible. Even a small buffer can save a life.
B.C.’s “Slow Down, Move Over” law applies whenever vehicles with flashing red, blue, or amber lights approach. It is required to reduce speed and move to the left to increase the space between drivers, the workers and emergency vehicles.
“A few moments of patience can go a long way in helping protect workers and keeping roads and services flowing smoothly,” their release stated.
Review Road Safety at Work’s tips for driving in work zones for more information.
