National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) was established as a public awareness campaign to help drivers and roadway workers understand the role that they play in keeping everyone safe in work zones. The event is held each year, in the spring.

“Go Orange Day” is an important component of NWZAW. This year, Go Orange Day falls on Wednesday, April 13th — individuals are encouraged to “wear orange” tomorrow, to show their support for work zone safety.

NWZAW involves partnerships across the U.S., including the various state departments of transportation (DOT), national road safety organizations, government agencies, private companies, and individuals. The NWZAW campaign raises awareness of work zone safety and the need for extra caution when driving through work zones. The theme of this year’s campaign is “Work zones are a sign to slow down.”

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides a few tips to help drivers navigate work zones safely:

• Research your route before setting out on the road. When possible, avoid work zones and use any detours that are available
• Pay attention and avoid distractions. Be aware of signage that indicate reduced speeds and changes in traffic patterns
• Slow down and keep an eye out for road workers
• When approaching lane closures, move to the open lane as soon as possible
• Keep your distance and maintain extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Rear-end crashes are extremely common in work zones

Credit to: American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

HazTek Inc. is a leading provider of comprehensive safety management services designed to protect workers by enhancing workplace safety. We offer professional, classroom-based training on more than 75 different topics – including a Work Zone Flagger class. For additional information or to learn more about HazTek’s services, please contact us at 888.842.9835, email us at info@haztekinc.com, or visit our website at www.haztekinc.com

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