Summer traffic increases risk to road workers

Jul 28, 2022 | 1:15 PM

Drivers are advised to be careful around road crews in Vernon and the North Okanagan.

Road Safety at Work, a WorkSafeBC-funded initiative, said that increased traffic over the summer months and around holiday weekends increases the risk of a road worker being injured or worse.

“Working around traffic is dangerous,” said Trace Acres, spokesperson for Road Safety At Work’s annual Cone Zone safety awareness campaign.

“Cone Zones are there to protect and save lives.”

WorkSafeBC statistics show that two road-side workers were killed and 31 were seriously injured after being struck by vehicles in B.C. in 2021.

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Over the past 10 years, 12 road-side workers have lost their lives and 221 others missed work due to serious injuries related to being hit by a vehicle.

“Driving too fast and not paying attention in a Cone Zone puts road-side workers at risk,” said Acres.

“Orange cones are often the only thing separating their workspace from your vehicle.”

Typical penalties for unsafe driving in a Cone Zone include a $368 fine for using a phone and at least $196 for speeding.

Road-side workers include road construction and maintenance crews, traffic control personnel, landscapers, municipal workers, tow truck operators, utility workers, movers and delivery van drivers.

Road Safety at Work also noted that drivers need to slow down and be cautious around emergency and enforcement personnel.

As part of the Cone Zone campaign, drivers are reminded to slow down and avoid distractions like cell phones; pay attention to temporary road signs, traffic cones and directions given by a traffic control person; and comply with B.C.’s Slow Down, Move Over law when passing any vehicle flashing a red, blue or amber lights.

Employers and prime contractors whose employees work along the road are required to do a risk assessment to check for hazards; take steps to eliminate or reduce risks; and supervise, train and equip workers to help keep them safe.

Employees also have legal safety responsibilities and must know how to identify hazards and assess risks; properly set up work zones; follow safe work procedures; wear appropriate high-visibility clothing; and report unsafe work conditions to their supervisor.

“Every road-side worker in Vernon, and around the North Okanagan, deserves to make it home to their family at the end of their shift without injury,” said Acres.

by Liam Verster

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