• Wear the right protective gear to protect against hazards and ensure your safety.
• Communicate effectively with teammates and the public in a respectful manner.
• Stay alert and focused on your work, taking breaks when needed.
• Familiarize yourself with local rules and regulations for street works.
• Utilize streetworks courses to enhance your skills and knowledge.

Working on the streets can be challenging, requiring quick thinking, excellent communication skills, and adapting to changing situations. Whether you are a construction worker, a utility worker, or a road maintenance worker, you must know the potential hazards and risks associated with working on the streets. This guide will provide five training tips to help you stay safe and be more efficient while working on the streets.

1. Wear the Right Protective Gear

Protective gear is essential when working on the streets. You must wear the right gear to protect yourself from falling objects, flying debris, or chemical exposure. This includes a hard hat, safety glasses, earplugs, gloves, and high-visibility clothing.

Moreover, choosing the proper footwear when working on the streets is vital. Your footwear should be slip-resistant, durable, and offer good traction to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Remember, the right protective gear can make all the difference in your safety and well-being while working on the streets.

2. Communicate Effectively

Communication is crucial when working on the streets. You must communicate with your team members, the public, and other workers to ensure everyone’s safety. Make sure to use hand signals, radios, and other forms of communication to keep everyone informed of the work being done and any potential hazards.

Additionally, being respectful and polite when communicating with the public is essential. Remember, roadworks often inconvenience people, and your positive attitude and communication can make a big difference in how they perceive the work being done.

3. Stay Alert and Focused

Working on the streets can be distracting, with traffic and noise all around you. It is essential to stay alert and focused on your work to avoid accidents and injuries. Take breaks when needed, and never work under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Also, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watch for moving vehicles, pedestrians, and other potential hazards. If you are working in a high-risk area, consider having a spotter to help you stay safe and focused.

4. Know the Rules and Regulations

Before starting any work on the streets, knowing the rules and regulations governing street works in your area is essential. Familiarize yourself with local and state laws and any restrictions your company or employer imposes. Moreover, follow all safety protocols and procedures when working on the streets.

Here are some rules and regulations you should know:

Proper Signage and Barriers

Set up the proper signage and barriers around your work area, including a Stop/Slow sign at least 200 feet in front of your work zone. This will alert drivers and pedestrians of the ongoing worksite.

Permits

Check with your local government to ensure you have all the necessary permits for starting street work. These may include planning and building permits or licenses from the Department of Transportation.

No Work Zones

Be aware of no-work zones, such as parks and public places where you cannot perform any work on the streets without written permission from that property’s owner or governing body.

Insurance Coverage

Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage to cover any potential damages or injuries during your work. This is especially important for large-scale projects with a risk of significant impacts on the public and property. Sufficient insurance will protect your business from financial risks associated with street works.

Traffic Laws

Follow all traffic laws when working on the streets, and be aware of any special regulations that may apply to your specific project. This includes speed limits, lane restrictions, parking zones, and other traffic guidelines.

5. Utilize Streetworks Courses

Streetworks courses can be an excellent way to learn new skills, stay up-to-date with the latest regulations, and improve your safety and efficiency while working on the streets. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from traffic management to first aid and provide you with practical knowledge and skills to improve your job performance.

Attending a reliable streetworks course can also give you a recognized qualification, making you more attractive to potential employers and improving your career prospects. Consider enrolling in a class that covers the specific areas of street work you are involved in, and always look for courses provided by reputable training providers.

In Summary

Working on the streets can be challenging, but with the right training and equipment, you can stay safe and be more efficient. Remember to wear the right protective gear, communicate effectively, remain alert and focused, know the rules and regulations, and consider utilizing streetworks courses to improve your skills and knowledge. Following these training tips can help ensure your safety and success while working on the streets.