Access and egress are the terms used to describe how people and vehicles enter and exit a construction site. Managing them effectively is crucial for safety, security, productivity, and compliance. In this article, you will learn some of the best ways to plan and implement access and egress controls for your construction project.
Before you start any work, you need to conduct a thorough site assessment and identify the potential hazards and risks associated with access and egress. For example, you should consider the location, size, shape, and layout of the site, the type and volume of traffic, the proximity to public roads and pedestrians, the weather and environmental conditions, and the existing infrastructure and utilities. Based on your assessment, you should develop a risk management plan that outlines the measures and procedures to prevent or minimize the impact of any incidents.
In my experience, the best way to assess the site and all related risks is to conduct detailed site surveys to identify the merit and demerit of site location, size, shape, and to understand available road infrastructure, rail and tram networks, etc. This will help to conclude the store and site office locations and smooth material movement. Along with that, one should carefully study the site layout plan to identify and list out the various integrations required with other statutory authorities and other agency liaisons/approvals, etc. Thereafter develop a risk register, a detailed logistic plan, and a tracker for various agency approvals for site access for all the resources, storage, and hassle-free material deliveries.
One of the most important steps in managing access and egress is to designate specific points for people and vehicles to enter and exit the site. These points should be clearly marked, signposted, and secured with barriers, gates, or fences. You should also ensure that there is enough space and visibility for safe movement and maneuvering, and that the access and egress points are compatible with the size and weight of the vehicles and equipment. Additionally, you should monitor and control the access and egress points with authorized personnel, such as security guards, gatekeepers, or traffic controllers.
In coordination with the administration and logistic team, several site visits will enable one to determine the effective access and exit points for the smooth movement of all kinds of resources. The access and egress points must be concluded considering various scenarios, the future impact on stakeholders, the requirement of construction activities, and future expansion around the site location or any future development in infrastructure, changes in traffic laws, etc. A detailed logistic plan with all assumptions must be maintained and monitored throughout the project. The designation of proper resources to control such points is important, and proper indicating labels must be maintained for effective usage of these entry and exit points
A key aspect of managing access and egress is to implement traffic management plans that regulate the flow and direction of vehicles and pedestrians on and around the site. These plans should include a detailed site map, a set of rules and instructions, a training program for workers, drivers, and visitors, and a monitoring and review process. The map should show access and egress points, traffic routes, parking areas, loading and unloading zones, and pedestrian walkways. The rules should specify speed limits, right of way, signaling systems, and communication methods. The training program should educate people about the traffic management plans and their responsibilities. The monitoring process should evaluate the effectiveness and compliance of the plans, making adjustments as needed.
In my experience, the implementation of a suitable traffic management plan is one of the key aspects of project success. The correct speed limit, necessary rules, and effective instructions and signs pave the way for smooth traffic movement of vehicles, materials, staff, and workmen. The detailed traffic management plan must consider various factors, such as weather forecasts and changes, seasonal changes, and the training requirements of different workforces, and be updated continuously for better control. Every person on the project must be inducted and made aware of traffic-related rules and requirements to contribute towards successful traffic management.
Traffic management may include work in a public motorway. This work has MPT (maintenance and protection of traffic) plans for work on sidewalks and motorways, that is under the governance of DOT guidelines. These measures will be taken up in the logistics plan. On the site property, clearly marked safe passageways-egress accompanied by signage help ensure safety in moving about. Security personnel and turnstiles will manage the flow of people entering and leaving the site. Many areas need to be safed-off from anyone but workers in a CAZ (control access zone) including a safety monitor.
Proper lighting and signage are essential for managing access and egress, especially in low-visibility or high-risk situations. Lighting and signage should be provided at the access and egress points, along the traffic routes, and at any potential hazards or obstructions. Lighting and signage should be bright, clear, consistent, and compliant with the relevant standards and regulations. They should also be maintained regularly and replaced as necessary.
When we are working on demolition and decommissioning projects, we always budget and plan for temp lighting in areas with low foot traffic. These corners, nooks and crannies are often overlooked and run the highest risk of serious injury. Working in data centers, elevation changes and overhead hazards could lead to serious injuries. We intentionally use the lighting as a spotlight to trigger awareness for anybody that is onsite.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a vital component of managing access and egress, as it protects the workers, drivers, and visitors from injuries and accidents. PPE should be suitable for the type and level of risk involved in accessing and exiting the site, and should comply with the applicable codes and guidelines. PPE may include helmets, gloves, boots, vests, goggles, earplugs, masks, or harnesses. You should ensure that everyone on the site wears the appropriate PPE and that it is inspected and replaced as needed.
Managing access and egress requires effective communication and coordination with all the stakeholders involved in the construction project, such as the clients, the contractors, the subcontractors, the suppliers, the authorities, and the public. You should communicate and coordinate with them regularly and clearly, and inform them of any changes or issues that may affect the access and egress. You should also seek their feedback and suggestions on how to improve the access and egress management, and resolve any conflicts or disputes that may arise.
To manage construction access and egress effectively; develop a comprehensive site plan, including designated access points. Create a traffic management plan with clear signage and separate construction traffic from pedestrians. Implement access control measures, provide training on traffic management protocols, and conduct regular inspections. Develop an emergency response plan, continuously monitor the site, and collaborate with local authorities (and possibly emergency services). Tailor these strategies to ensure safety and efficiency on your construction site.
Visual communication is a simple and yet very effective way to manage this. The more you can communicate visually the better.