Common safety equipment for roadside construction
Working in construction is dangerous. Workers have to be careful as cars whizz past them. Additionally, these individuals often have to fit into tight spaces. For these reasons, it is critical that construction companies put safety first. Businesses can do this by equipping individuals with the right gear and giving them the right tools. Therefore, it is important for businesses to understand the safety equipment commonly used in roadside construction to ensure they do not miss anything. This guide will outline every detail so workers can always stay safe at work.
plastic cone
Plastic cones are a staple in the traffic safety supply industry. These items are usually orange and can guide drivers away from a certain area. For example, workers can place cones around work areas they don't want cars to approach. Cones should change traffic patterns and prevent vehicles from getting too close to workers.
Again, you'll usually see orange cones on the road. However, if the team needs to further divide the space, The Cone Zone has plastic cones in a variety of different colors. Our cones are reflective and part of our high-visibility gear to make people more visible on the road. Finally, our plastic cones are durable and impact-resistant. So even if someone accidentally bumps them, they won't be damaged.
Cones and Stabilizers
Traffic cones only work when they are stationary. It would be very dangerous if the cones were flying around the road and blocking the driver's way. Therefore, traffic cones require cone mounts and stabilizers to ensure they stay in place. These items serve as durable bases so the cones don't move where they shouldn't be. By keeping the cone in place, drivers and workers will stay safe on the road.
stop/paddle
Probably the most commonly used safety equipment in roadside construction is the stop/slow paddle. While you can use cones to warn drivers of impending changes in traffic patterns, it's also wise to have someone hold a park/slow paddle near a construction site. You can never do too much when warning people that they need to slow down soon. Construction workers should stop holding the item as it will tire after a while.
roadblock
Just like traffic cones, you can use barricades to show drivers where they can't go. Cone Zone sells barricades for outdoor use. The unique shape of these items makes them very sturdy. Plus, they're easy to take out and store. Obstacles are also larger than traffic cones, so drivers are usually easier to spot them.
Message boards and arrow boards
Message boards and arrow boards are an important part of roadside construction safety equipment. Although this is a larger investment than traditional signs, message boards can provide drivers with more information about why traffic is changing. These objects can tell people when to detour and even suggest another route they can take. While it's not specifically related to construction zone safety, message boards can also inform drivers of breaking news stories. For example, many cities and municipalities use Amber Alerts' message boards to let drivers know which vehicle a suspect may be in.
Arrow boards are also an effective tool in promoting roadside construction safety. While the cones are effective in letting people know where they can't drive, the arrow plates indicate a sudden merger is imminent. Arrow signs indicate that a lane is coming to an end and people will have to let other vehicles in before this happens. Hopefully these tools will keep people from leaving at the last minute.
Reflective gear
Dress is also critical to the roadside safety of construction workers. These people cannot wear everyday clothes because drivers on the road must be able to see them - especially at night. Therefore, construction companies must provide employees with reflective gear to help them stand out on the curb. Cone Zone has a breathable reflective vest made of polyester mesh. The vest improves visibility and is comfortable to wear. What's more, we offer reflective suspenders that workers can adjust and put on to make themselves stand out.
Construction Equipment GPS
A lesser-known safety device is construction equipment GPS. Construction workers shouldn't wander aimlessly around the site looking for what they've lost - it's dangerous and an unwise use of their time. So many companies are investing in construction equipment GPS to help people find their misplaced tools. Although it's an initial investment, it's wise to buy one of these pieces of equipment, as it saves the business money on tool replacements. Additionally, these supplies help bring people back to work and prevent them from having to move around busy and dangerous areas.
Construction Speed Awareness Monitor
A construction speed awareness monitor is a must-have in the work area. These devices let drivers know what the recommended speed limit is for the specific area they are driving. Next to the traditional speed limit sign is a message board letting people know how fast they are going. The tool can alert you when someone is going too fast, and flashes to indicate that is happening. The machine has a long life and can run continuously for 18 days.
Businesses must do everything in their power to protect construction workers. Essentially, these people risk their lives every day to make sure our roads are in good condition; the least their employers can do is make sure they stay safe while doing so. For more than 50 years, Cone Zone has been a leading manufacturer of traffic safety products.
Companies can trust us to keep people safe. We have auxiliary curbside equipment and apparel that people can wear to help them stand out. We are also particularly proud of the cutting-edge technologies we offer, such as GPS for construction equipment. These tools can help stop accidents and maintain productivity in the field. Business leaders should take a look at our options today; they won't be disappointed.