We are a nation of multi-taskers, always trying to get one more thing done quickly. We are communities filled with speeding, risk-taking and road rage. This, with all its distractions and impairments, has translated into unsafe work zones.
Work zone fatalities jumped in 2021 to a 17-year high. In 2021, more than 105,000 crashes were reported, resulting in 42,000 injuries and 956 work zone fatalities. Although 2022 showed a decline to 891 deaths, more needs to be done for safety.
Various entities took this data and saw the need for change through the strengthening of roadway safety initiatives, vehicle safety technology, infrastructure improvements, and impaired and distracted driving deterrents. National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) sponsored by the Maryland Department of Transportation is one campaign with a long history of promoting training and best practices.
Over the years, Valtir has partnered with roadway agencies and other manufacturers to showcase products that improve work zone safety. The company recognizes that different safety measures need to be implemented to help reduce the risk of crashes in work zones. The ultimate goal of roadway safety is to make all work zones safer for all construction crews and everyone on the road.
Valtir’s core roadway product lines include guardrail, end terminals, cable and steel longitudinal barriers, crash cushions, truck and trailer-mounted attenuators, water-filled barricades, sign supports and delineators. For more than 50 years, Valtir’s commitment to safety brings the next generation of innovative safety products to U.S. and international roadways.
SS180 M is a truck-mounted attenuator for use on stationary or moving vehicles. The back-of-queue automated warning system is part of a three-pronged approach to improve work zone safety by combining equipment with technology solutions. SS180 M can be fitted with high visibility warning lights and portable message boards. The unit consists of two lightweight aluminum cartridges contained in a potentially reusable steel support frame and a 180-degree tilt feature, which folds at the center to stack the two cartridge sections on top of each other. Approved at MASH Test Level 3, SS180 M is designed to help absorb rear-end impacts at speeds up to 62 mph (100 km/h).
VORTEQ M is a trailer-mounted attenuator that attaches to stationary or moving shadow support vehicles. The unit, tested to MASH 2016 Test Level 3, is comprised of a lightweight tube frame rail and a wheel/axle assembly. VORTEQ M is designed to help absorb rear-end impacts at 62 mph (100 km/h) or less.
The ArmorBuffa is a non-redirective, gating, temporary crash cushion. Tested to MASH Test Level 3, the crash cushion consists of an integrated steel nose and water-filled, high-performance plastic segments.
“These are just a few of many products that keep workers and drivers safe in work zones,” Theresa Stultz, Marketing Manager with Valtir. “Zero is the number of deaths we want to see in work zones and on the roads every day. Awareness, education and quality products that give drivers notification ahead of construction zones and protect workers in specified zone is part of the path to getting to zero.”
The momentum that is building to lower the number of work zone accidents and fatalities is powerful. Valtir will continue to support NWZAW and a week of awareness. But it will do this every day, 365, to have a lifetime effect. Visit www.valtir.com to discover these highlighted roadway safety products and others.
