Contents

• Whenever possible observe the conditions from a flat surface and do not enter a steep ditch or
side of a steep road bed.
• If steep terrain must be negotiated, sturdy shoes or boots that provide ankle support should be
used. The need for ladders or ropes to provide stability should be evaluated.
2.2.28 Vehicular Traffic, Exposure to Public Vehicular Traffic
Reference CH2M HILL SOP HSE&Q-216, Traffic Control)
The following precautions must be taken when working around traffic, and in or near an area
where traffic controls have been established by a contractor:
• Exercise caution when exiting traveled way or parking along street – avoid sudden stops, use
flashers, etc.;
• Park in a manner that will allow for safe exit from vehicle, and where practicable, park vehicle
so that it can serve as a barrier;
• All staff working adjacent to traveled way or within work area must wear the appropriate
ANSI/ISEA 107-1999 high-visibility safety vests;
• Eye protection should be worn to protect from flying debris;
• Remain aware of factors that influence traffic related hazards and required controls – sun glare,
rain, wind, flash flooding, limited sight-distance, hills, curves, guardrails, width of shoulder
(i.e., breakdown lane), etc.;
• Always remain aware of an escape route -- behind an established barrier, parked vehicle,
guardrail, etc.;
• Always pay attention to moving traffic – never assume drivers are looking out for you;
• Work as far from traveled way as possible to avoid creating confusion for drivers;
• When workers must face away from traffic, a “buddy system” should be used, where one
worker is looking towards traffic;
• When working on highway projects, obtain a copy of the contractor’s traffic control plan;
• Work area should be protected by a physical barrier – such as a K-rail or Jersey barrier;
• Review traffic control devices to ensure that they are adequate to protect your work area; Traffic
control devices should: 1) convey a clear meaning, 2) command respect of road users, and 3)
give adequate time for proper traffic response. The adequacy of these devices are dependent on
limited sight distance, proximity to ramps or intersections, restrictive width, duration of job,
and traffic volume, speed, and proximity;
• Either a barrier or shadow vehicle should be positioned a considerable distance ahead of the
work area. The vehicle should be equipped with a flashing arrow sign and truck-mounted crash
cushion (TMCC). All vehicles within 40 feet of traffic should have an orange flashing hazard
light atop the vehicle;
• Except on highways, flaggers should be used when 1) two-way traffic is reduced to using one
common lane, 2) driver visibility is impaired or limited, 3) project vehicles enter or exit traffic in
an unexpected manner, or 4) the use of a flagger enhances established traffic warning systems;
• Lookouts should be used when physical barriers are not available or practical. The lookout
continually watches approaching traffic for signs of erratic driver behavior and warns workers.
Vehicles should be parked at least 40 feet away from the work zone and traffic. Minimize the
amount of time that you will have your back to oncoming traffic.
GNV310133632156.DOC/090840008 A-31