Set Up and Take Down
of Roadside Work Zones
A work zone protects the
roadside work area. Signs,
cones and other devices
are used to alert or warn
motorists, and guide them
away from the work area.
Proper set up of work
zones is critical for the
safety of workers as well
as motorists, cyclists, and
pedestrians. However, be
aware that the action of
setting up and dismantling
work zones is often the
most dangerous part of
roadside work.
Set up work zone devices in the order that drivers will see them.
Work zone set up and take down
A proper work zone set up is
critical for worker safety.
Work zone layout
• Ensure that there is a plan for the work zone layout. This
could be a simple diagram, showing where signs, cones
and other devices are
to be placed. The traffic
control plan must
include the use of signs
to alert drivers to your
presence. Cones alone
are not enough.
• Ensure that the work
zone layout addresses
the site-specific hazards
(e.g., signage and cone
placement takes into
account hills, curves in
the road, etc.). Consult
with your supervisor
to modify the layout as
necessary.
• Ensure you have the required equipment such as signs,
cones and barriers. All equipment should be clean, and in
good condition.
• Set up the work zone devices in the order that drivers will
encounter them. Begin with the sign or device farthest
away (upstream) from the work area. Do not turn your
back to traffic as you set up the work zone.
• Once the work zone is set up, travel through the work
zone to view it from a driver’s perspective. Do signs, cones
and other devices provide clear guidance to motorists and
other road users? Could they find anything confusing? Are
workers clearly visible?
• Periodically throughout the day, make sure signs, cones
and other devices are still in position.
• Dismantle the work zone as soon as the work is completed
and signs and devices are no longer needed. In general,
devices should be removed in opposite order of
installation with cones and other devices removed first,
followed by signs.
Use a variety of devices in your
work zone to alert drivers to your
presence. Cones alone are not
enough.
See ConeZoneBC.com for more information
on roadside worker safety.
WORK ZONE
SAFETY ALLIANCE
Disclaimer. This document does not take the place of professional occupational health and safety advice and is not guaranteed to meet the requirements of applicable laws, regulations, and rules, including workplace health
and safety laws and motor vehicle and traffic laws. The members of the Work Zone Safety Alliance and their respective employees, officers, directors or agents (collectively the “WZSA”) assume no liability for or responsibility
for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any person arising from or in any way connected with the use of or reliance upon the information contained in this document including, without limitation, any liability for loss
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concerning the topics mentioned. (04-2015)