As the weather improves, motorists can expect to see more road construction projects. This week, April 15 through April 19, Columbia Gas of Maryland observes National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) and reminds drivers to follow good safety practices in work zones, not only this week but every time they encounter road work crews.
Lane closures, changes in traffic patterns, and reduced speeds are common in work zones. While designed to keep everyone safe, they can also frustrate drivers. Flaggers and workers on foot face the most significant risk of being struck by vehicles or construction equipment when a car intrudes into a work zone.
To help reduce risk, flagging contractors deploy Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFAD). These devices have an 8-foot gate arm, stop and caution lights, and are controlled by an off-road flagger. To keep drivers and workers safe, Columbia Gas provides the following DOs and DON’Ts when encountering an AFAD in a work zone.
What to do when you encounter an AFAD:
- Approach with caution
- Obey all advanced warning signs and stop where directed
- Remain stopped until all oncoming traffic has passed and the AFAD’s 8ft arm has lifted and the traffic signal changes to yellow to “proceed with caution”
What not to do when you encounter an AFAD:
- DO NOT drive around AFAD arm until signaled, even if oncoming traffic has passed
- DO NOT distract yourself with your phone or other devices while stopped
- DO NOT stop too closely or contact the AFAD – a high-decibel alarm will sound
As part of NWZAW, April 13 is “Go Orange” Day, and Columbia Gas encourages people to wear orange to show support for work zone safety and for families affected by work zone accidents.
“The safety of our customers and employees is our top priority,” said Brian McCaul, Columbia Gas Vice President of Gas Operations. “Take time during this special week to keep work zone safety in mind and use caution whenever you encounter road construction projects to protect yourself and workers.”
For more information about Columbia Gas of Maryland’s focus on safety, please visit www.ColumbiaGasMD.com/Safety.
