Most fatalities in road construction work zones come from motorists. Some causes of this are driving too fast, poor visibility, fatigue, impatience, and distractions. Work zones can be dangerous places, so here are a few safety tips:

Know the Safety Plan – For every job site, there is a safety plan geared for that site. The plan includes ways to spot hazards, administering first aid, and safety training. Make sure you are very familiar with the plan for your site and remember the information from safety meetings.

Wear Safety Gear – Make sure you wear the appropriate gear that will protect you, like gloves, steel-toed boots, or hard hats. There is always a reason that certain things are recommended so stick to the regulations. It is important to stay visible to other workers and motorists. Clothing should be bright orange, green, or yellow and have reflective material. This is especially important when working at night. When you need to wear a jacket, make sure it is a hi-visibility jacket that will not only keep you warm and dry, but will make you more visible.

Stay Alert – A very important tip is to keep your eyes open and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid being near equipment that is moving and never turn your back to or walk behind equipment that is in use. Remember that there are blind spots for any equipment. Know where these are and avoid standing in one. The rule of thumb is that if you can’t see the operator, he can’t see you.

Stay Hydrated – If the sun is shining, the asphalt will be much warmer than the air temperature making it easier to get overheated. Drink a lot of water and drinks with electrolytes. Be especially careful on hot days and try to avoid the sun as much as possible. This will help lessen the chance of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.