5 Things to Do on Work Zone Safety Training Day (April 26)

National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) is more than hashtags and social media – it’s a reminder to stop and take a real assessment and action to further safeguard employees’ lives. After all, while safety involves routine checks, safety should never be routine, but requires constant thought and effort. Crews should be empowered to interrupt processes to speak up when they see something and actively practice vigilance.

According to CPWR, the Center for Construction Research and Training, struck-by injuries are a leading cause of death and, since 1992, the leading cause of nonfatal injuries in the construction industry. NWZAW encourages employers and workers to pause during the workday for safety demonstrations, training in hazard recognition and fall prevention, and talks about protective methods as well as the company’s safety policies, goals, and expectations.

It’s fitting that NWZAW kicks off with Work Zone Safety Training Day (April 26), which emphasizes the importance of laying the groundwork for safety through training of personnel.

Here are five specific steps to take today that engage your crew and actively show your commitment to on the job safety.

? Hold a safety stand down to talk to your crew about the importance of remaining alert and vigilant in the work zone. Click here for resources on how to conduct a stand down.

? Invest in CrewSafety: Work Zone Training, a web-based internal traffic control training program for paving crews.

? Conduct toolbox talks on safety topics. OSHA offers free toolbox talk kits here and CPWR offers them here.

? Have your CEO address your crews on the importance of safety.

? Conduct a blind spot awareness activity.

Download NAPA’s Work Zone Safety Training Day Resource Toolkit for toolbox talks, CEO talking points, and more.