In 2018 there was a total of 123,000 work zone crashes in the United States; 31,000 crashes involved injury. These statistics underscore the need to observe work zone speeds, eliminate distractions, and be attentive while driving through work zones.
A public awareness campaign, National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), is in its twenty-first year spreading the message of “Drive Safe. Work Safe. Save Lives.” This year NWZAW will be taking place April 26 to 30, with a special day dedicated on April 28 for Go Orange Day. NWZAW works to educate drivers about using extra caution in work zones as construction season ramps up.
Danella considers work zone safety a priority to ensure our employees and the public go home each day. Implementing proper barricades, traffic patterns, and sign notifications about work zones are all in a day’s work. The unexpected elements such as distracted drivers and even pedestrians can never be 100% planned when reviewing job site safety. This NWZAW, Danella joins other organizations in the utility construction industry to bring awareness to the 842 deaths, including 135 workers, in 2019.
This year’s theme of “Drive Safe. Work Safe. Save Lives.” may seem simple to follow but reminds drivers that everyone’s undivided attention is needed to ensure everyone returns home safely. If we all work together, zero deaths or injuries can be accomplished on our roadways and work zones.
A simple way to get involved and show your support of work zone workers is by wearing Orange on April 28. If you take a photo, share it using #Orange4Safety and #GoOrangeDay.
To learn more about NWZAW and Go Orange Day, visit: https://www.nwzaw.org/
We hope you join in on April 28 and wear your orange.
See details from the 2020 NWZAW event.
NWZAW was formed by the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The partnership has expanded to include the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and many more local administrations.