What elements should be considered to improve worker safety in high-speed temporary traffic control zones?

Improving worker safety in high-speed temporary traffic control zones is crucial due to the inherent risks associated with working near moving vehicles. Rerouting traffic around the work site is an effective strategy because it minimizes the direct interaction between construction or maintenance workers and vehicular traffic. By diverting traffic away from the immediate work area, the likelihood of accidents—such as vehicles colliding with personnel or equipment—is significantly reduced.

This approach not only protects workers but also helps in preventing disruption to traffic flow, thereby enhancing overall safety for both workers and motorists. It allows for a more focused and safer work environment, where workers can concentrate on their tasks without the constant threat of nearby traffic.

The other elements mentioned, while they may contribute to an overall safety plan, do not directly address the immediate risk posed by traffic in the work area as effectively as rerouting does. For instance, changing work hours might reduce some traffic but does not eliminate the risk during the hours when work is conducted. Setting up barriers is helpful, but if traffic is not rerouted completely, those barriers may not provide sufficient protection. Conducting background checks on workers is more related to ensuring personnel suitability rather than directly improving worker safety in a high-speed environment.