The knowledge needed to do a better job is in hand and what really is needed is a facilitating boost to unlock that potential. There clearly is a need for a multifaceted approach because highway and bridge contractors do not control enough of the aspects of work zones to solve the problem themselves, as can some other types of contractors. We agree with industry safety experts that the best place to start is the contracting process. Most highway work is public, awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. It is difficult, if not impossible, to use more expensive equipment, means and methods to save lives or reduce injuries if you can lose a contract opportunity when you are a dollar high in bidding.
Government regulations are the safety net in work zones, prescribing minimum action to be taken.
Some individual firms have a clearer view of what action they need to take. For example, Cianbro Construction Co. says it will have a physical barrier between its workers and traffic in all work zones. It thinks that it can reach a balance between efficacy and cost with a flexible solution for each jobsite. That solution can range from heavy concrete barriers to a truck-mounted crash attenuator that can move along with crews. That works for us and the firm.