By Cornelius Morgan, Contributing Author

Work zones in tough environments require tougher safety measures. With National Work Zone Awareness Week upon us, it's the perfect time to talk about the challenges of road construction in places like the mountains, wetlands, deserts and woodlands.

Safety isn’t one-size-fits-all. Traffic control solutions should be designed to meet the challenges of every work zone, no matter the terrain. Beyond the approved traffic control plan, here’s more to know to protect your crews and drivers as locations change.

Mountain Work Zones

Steep slopes, twisting roads and sudden fog or snow make mountain work zones high-risk areas.

With unpredictable curves and inclines, warning signs placed well in advance can give drivers the critical extra seconds they need to slow down.
Barriers and rockfall netting help prevent loose rocks and shifting slopes from turning a work zone into a danger zone.
Snow, ice and fog can quickly turn a routine workday into a risky one. Make sure crews have emergency gear, warm, dry clothing and clear protocols for when conditions change.

Coastal Work Zones

From sudden storms to tidal surges and gale-force winds, coastal road construction also requires extra planning.

Use weighted bases, sandbags or other reinforcements to prevent sudden wind gusts from shifting barriers and sweeping away signage.
Blocking an evacuation route isn’t an option. Coordinate closely with local authorities to keep these critical roads open and ready when storms approach.
Salt air can take a toll on metal signs and equipment like portable message boards, so regular cleaning is a must. A protective coating can also go a long way in preventing rust.

Desert Work Zones

In the desert, crews need to be ready for extreme heat, blowing sand and drastic temperature shifts.

Preventing exhaustion starts with preparation. Provide plenty of water, cooling stations and shade for workers, and train crews to recognize the signs of heat stroke.
Wind-driven sand can quickly obscure signs, vehicles—even entire work zones. Dust suppressants (e.g., water and salt sprays) along with wind barriers can prevent problems.
Extreme heat weakens tires. Work zones should have substantially reduced speed limits to lower the likelihood of sudden blowouts.

Forested Work Zones

Thick tree cover, unexpected wildlife encounters and spotty reception are all potential difficulties in densely forested work zones.

Trim overhanging branches and risky trees ahead of time and have a plan in place for dealing with fallen debris.
Make sure crews know how to respond if an animal wanders into the work zone and take precautions to keep the area free of food and trash that might attract them.
No signal? No problem—if you plan ahead. Crews should have two-way radios or other reliable ways to communicate when cell service isn’t available.

Frigid Work Zones

In the coldest climates, icy roads make for treacherous travel, slip-and-fall accidents are a constant concern, and shorter days mean less time to get things done.

Cold stress is a real risk in freezing conditions. Crews should have insulated PPE, scheduled breaks to warm up and a hydration plan to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
No one wants to end up flat on their back in the middle of a shift. Sand, deicers and traction cleats can keep work zones safer.
When daylight is scarce, work zones must be brighter. High-powered lights, reflective signage and bold lane markings can improve visibility.

Wetland Work Zones

Soft, wet ground can turn any construction job into a balancing act.

The last thing you want is sinking safety equipment—reinforce marshy work areas with matting or load distribution platforms to stay on solid ground.
Water levels can rise in a hurry, but a combination of routine checks and a flood emergency plan can keep the job site safe and productive.
Mosquitoes don’t care that you’re on the clock. The right gear and a great insect repellent can keep workers comfortable and bite-free.

Work zones vary from region to region, and so should safety plans. This National Work Zone Awareness Week and beyond, teams should evaluate their specific risks and adjust safety measures accordingly.

Cornelius Morgan is the Sr. Director of EHS North America at AWP Safety, where he champions environmental health and safety initiatives across the organization.