What’s happening: Traffic control solutions company Ver-Mac and the ARTBA Foundation are teaming up to study how connected work zones enhance worker safety, thanks to a grant announced March 9 from the Job-Site Safety Institute (JSI).
How it works: Ver-Mac will place sensors inside workers’ vests. The sensors communicate in real-time with traffic control devices and motorists’ navigation systems, alerting drivers to their presence. Data regarding any collisions or near-miss incidents will be shared with ARTBA and compared to outcomes at non-connected job sites.
Why it matters: “Every day, workers nationwide put themselves at risk to build and maintain the roads that keep our country moving,” said JSI Board Chair Erik Anderson. “By funding this study, we are supporting critical research that can reduce risk, improve communication, and establish meaningful safety metrics for future roadway projects.”
What’s next: The first test site is expected to go live in Washington State this June, with at least two additional project sites yet to be selected. Contractors or state agencies interested is participating in the study should contact ARTBA’s Brad Sant.
Photo credit: Ver-Mac website.
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