As springtime leads to increasing work on major roadways, we will observe National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) from April 15 to 19.
NWZAW was formed by State Departments, Transportation Authorities, Road Safety Organizations, and Government Agencies as a public safety event to help spread the word about roadway safety. The week’s mission is to create safer roads, especially for those maintaining our nation’s infrastructure.
This year’s theme is “Work Zones are Temporary. Actions behind the wheel can last forever.” Events for 2024 will lead up to a moment of silence on April 19 for all those who have lost their lives to work zone incidents. Additional events include:
- Training Day – April 15
- National Kickoff Event – April 16
- Go Orange Day – April 17
- Social Media Storm – April 19
Work zone deaths are preventable by slowing down, staying focused, and following instructions. In 2021, 106,000 crashes happened in work zones, with over 956 fatalities—including 108 construction workers (WorkZoneSafety.org). The number of deaths due to accidents has increased since 2018. However, work zone fatalities of workers are down from 2020 to 2022, around 3.8%, due to additional legislation and protections being implemented.
Joseph Morris, Corporate Safety for Danella noted: “Work zone safety is for all. Not only does it protect our workers, but it protects the public. Ensuring that you are following flagging instructions, detours, and mergers helps to keep you safe and our crews.”
Danella is joining government organizations, other utility construction companies, and the public in observing NWZAW. Click Here for more information on the 2024 NWZAW events.
We hope to see your orange on April 17! Make sure to tag #NWZAW on social media.