With warmer weather, public activity increases—more vehicles, wildlife movement, and curious people appear more around our worksites. This adds some complications to outdoor work and demands heightened awareness from every crew member. The priority is to protect the crew, the public, and the worksite through safe and respectful practices.
Key Summer Safety Challenges
1. Increased Vehicle & Foot Traffic
- Roads near job sites see more RVs, trailers, and distracted drivers.
- Illegal parking and sudden stops near access roads are more common.
- Pedestrian activity may increase unexpectedly near rural sites.
2. Bystanders or Trespassers
- Travelers unfamiliar with work zones may approach for photos or directions.
- Children and pets can unintentionally enter restricted areas.
- Public may not recognize boundaries or safety signage.
3. Disrupted Visibility & Communication
- Dust, sun glare, and long daylight hours reduce visibility.
- Traffic noise interferes with radio calls and verbal warnings.
4. Early Departures & More Wildlife
- Crews leaving early may encounter animals like deer, moose, or bears.
- Wildlife activity peaks at dawn and dusk—expect the unexpected.
- Hot, dry conditions can also drive animals closer to roads and equipment.
Safe Work Practices
Traffic & Access Management: Use clear, early signage at access points and turnoffs. Mark work zones with cones, barricades, or flagging tape. Assign spotters or flaggers when moving equipment across public roads. Review your site traffic control plan regularly.
Site Access Control: Keep gates closed and locked when unattended. Post “Authorized Personnel Only” signs and reinforce boundary expectations. Use fencing or barriers where possible to deter public access. Escort all visitors, delivery drivers, or third-party crews.
Dealing with the Public
When members of the public approach the site, always start with professionalism and courtesy.
- Remain professional, calm, and courteous
- Approach unknown persons respectfully, but make it clear the site is restricted
- Do not engage in arguments or attempt to physically remove anyone
If someone ignores the direction or becomes confrontational, escalate to the site supervisor immediately—do not attempt to physically intervene. Public interactions should always be reported as part of daily hazard communication or tailgate meetings.
Wildlife Awareness: Drive slower on worksite roads, especially during low light conditions. Do not swerve—brake firmly and maintain control. Report wildlife sightings during tailgate meetings to alert the crew. Avoid leaving food or garbage on site, as this attracts animals and increases risk
Crew Safety Reminders
- Wear high-visibility PPE at all times near roads or equipment.
- Use radios, horns, mirrors, and cameras consistently.
- Stay hydrated and pace your work—heat stress and fatigue are serious risks.
- Never assume a vehicle or pedestrian sees you.
- Rotate spotters to maintain vigilance and avoid fatigue.
- Report all near misses involving traffic, public interaction, or wildlife.
Emergency Preparedness
- Ensure every crew member understands the emergency communication plan.
- Post and maintain emergency contact numbers, including conservation officers.
- Keep site emergency supplies and equipment properly maintained and stocked, such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and spill response gear.
- Have clear plans for incidents involving traffic, trespassers, or wildlife.
Final Message
Summer means more people, more distractions, and more unpredictability. Adapting to these unique summer hazards are important for ensuring that everyone remains safe – both on and off site.