Construction traffic controllers are responsible for making sure that the construction site is safe and secure. They work on job sites where there is heavy machinery and lots of traffic.
Construction traffic controllers ensure that people do not get injured or killed on the job site. They also make sure that materials are delivered on time and in the correct place so that construction projects can be completed quickly and efficiently.
However, to become a construction traffic controller, one needs to take mandatory courses like Alertforce Traffic Control course.
The following sections will provide more information about the duties and responsibilities of construction traffic controllers and some insights into the controller courses.
Table of Contents
What Do Construction Traffic Controllers Do?
Duties
- Ensuring that all vehicles are parked in designated areas and roads are clear of debris or hazards.
- Ensuring that there are no vehicles obstructing the path of pedestrians or other vehicles.
- Supervising vehicles entering and exiting the site, ensuring they do not exceed speed limits or cause damage to other property.
- Ensuring that pedestrians follow safety procedures and do not interfere with construction work being carried out by workers.
- Directing vehicular and pedestrian traffic around a construction site.
- Ensuring that all construction workers have proper safety equipment (hard hats, safety glasses) at all times; ensuring that visitors wear hard hats if necessary.
- Ensuring that proper signage is posted throughout the work zone (e.g., “Stop Ahead”).
Responsibilities
Construction traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring the safety of construction workers and motorists. They help to reduce accidents that might occur during the construction of new buildings, roads, and highways. They also ensure that construction crews follow all safety precautions set forth by local, state, and federal regulations.
Construction traffic controllers work in a variety of industries, including residential and commercial building projects, road construction projects, utility line installations, and many more.
Some may work independently, while others work as part of a team with other construction traffic controllers or may work directly with a project superintendent or contractor on site.
The responsibilities of a construction traffic controller include:
- Maintaining traffic flow during all phases of project completion
- Ensuring worker safety by enforcing proper signage, barricade placement, and flagging procedures
- Coordinating with other departments such as public works to ensure all roads are safe to travel on during construction periods – including allowing emergency vehicles access through barricades if needed
- Assisting with any incident response activities such as car accidents or hazardous spills
How Do You Become a Construction Traffic Controller?
The construction industry is a fast-paced, ever-changing environment. As a result, it is hard to know exactly what skills will be required of you when you start working as a traffic controller.
Many workers in this field have come from an engineering or construction background, while others have no prior experience but are willing to learn new skills on the job.
Traffic Controller Courses
Training centers use comprehensive training programs on the basics of traffic control management. A traffic controller course will teach you how to manage traffic on the worksite and ensure that everything is completed safely and efficiently.
This course is ideal for those who are new to traffic control or who want to refresh their knowledge. It covers many aspects of traffic control, including:
- The fundamentals of traffic control
- Equipment needed for a successful project
- Working with contractors and subcontractors
- Personal protective gear (PPE) used in construction zones
- Inspecting a work zone before opening it up to vehicle traffic
Gaining Experience Working in Construction
Another step towards becoming a traffic controller is gaining some experience working in construction. The best way to do this is by volunteering for a few days with your local building society or council. You’ll be able to see how things work from the inside and get a feel for what it’s like to be in charge of people’s safety.
If you want to continue working as a traffic controller after your initial experience, then consider taking courses that will provide essential theoretical training alongside, hands-on experience in the field.
Final Thought
If you are interested in working in a role as a construction traffic controller, then you should expect to be informed on the latest regulations, codes, and procedures. And if you’re hired by one of the large construction companies, they will always want to take safety very seriously.
