There has been a recent temporary traffic management safety alert issued in relation to a triple road train impacting traffic control point and traffic management vehicle. The incident described below occurred when the road train applied brakes upon approach to a red signal, causing the rear trailer to push the road train off to the left shoulder and collide with the portable traffic control device and the traffic control vehicle.
What Happened
A triple road train was entering the approach of warning signage of an operational worksite at speed when it heavily applied the brakes, approximately 200m from the red signal prior to the traffic control stop point.
While braking, the rear trailer pushed the road train off to the left shoulder where it impacted the portable traffic control device (PTCD) and a traffic control vehicle with two workers inside.
The traffic control vehicle was struck and dragged by the road train trailers sustaining significant damage. Both traffic controllers in the vehicle escaped serious injury, however, experienced discomfort from the incident. One of the traffic controllers later left site with concern for their mental well-being.
At the time of the incident, the traffic control vehicle was parked at 90 degrees to the road, to monitor both directions and operate the lights, approximately 5m from the edge of the road seal.
Skid marks on approach to red light of the Portable Traffic Control Device (PTCD)
Damage sustained to traffic control vehicle
Immediate Actions
Please note that these are generic actions for all to consider in relation to this critical risk (and is not reflective of this specific incident):
- Continual monitoring of traffic speed must be carried out on a regular basis to ensure the effectiveness of the traffic management.
- Traffic management inspections must be completed to ensure the traffic management is set up in accordance with the TMP and TGS including Portable Traffic Control Devices and signage
- Identify and regularly check escape routes in case of errant vehicles
Summary
To address the critical risk associated with this safety alert, several immediate actions are recommended. These include continual monitoring of traffic speed to ensure the effectiveness of traffic management, conducting inspections to ensure compliance with the Traffic Management Plan (TMP) and Traffic Guidance Scheme (TGS), and identifying escape routes for workers in case of errant vehicles.
It is essential to prioritise safety in temporary traffic management and take proactive measures to mitigate risks. By implementing these recommended actions and conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, authorities can enhance safety protocols and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Remember, safety should always remain a top priority in traffic management, road construction and maintenance worksites to protect the well-being of workers and the public alike.
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