National Work Zone Awareness Week-2020

The National Work Zone Awareness Week is April 20 – 24, 2020, and is the 20^th year of the event.  This annual campaign kicks off the construction season while highlighting the deadly dangers of inattention at highway work areas. This year’s theme is “Safe Work Zones for All: Protect workers. Protect road users.” It features a poster reminiscent of the World War II poster with Rosie the Riveter. In her place are a male and female roadway worker proclaiming, “We Can Do It!”.

The week kicks off today with Work Zone Safety Training day. Play a part by training workers on ways to prevent work zone struck-by accidents.  Struck-by injuries are a leading cause of death and since 1992 the leading cause of nonfatal injuries in the construction industry. This national stand down encourages workers to pause voluntarily during the workday for safety demonstrations, training in hazard recognition and fall prevention, and talks about hazards and protective methods.

“Go Orange Day” will be on Wednesday, April 22.  Roadway safety professionals and advocates across the country are encouraged to wear orange to proudly show their support of work zone safety and to provide a visible reminder and support for families who have been impacted by work zone accidents.

We all play an important role in work zone safety. Use extra caution when driving through highway work zones–slow down when you see orange signs and safety vests. Help put an end to the tragedies and provide “Safe Work Zones for All”.

Helpful toolbox talks on Struck-by Safety and Struck-by Prevention and more are available in our Resource Center for members of the Appruv network.

For additional information on this national campaign, visit http://www.nwzaw.org/