Cone Zone Campaign is back—reminding drivers to slow down and pay attention when passing work zones. These are not just construction sites—they’re workplaces, and the people in them deserve to get home safe at the end of every shift.
Every year, roadside workers are injured or killed simply because a driver was going too fast, distracted, or failed to follow signage. The Cone Zone Campaign aims to prevent these tragedies through education and awareness for everyone—from drivers to employers and supervisors.
The Reality Roadside Workers Face
Working just metres away from fast-moving vehicles is dangerous. From 2015 to 2024, nine roadside workers in B.C. were killed after being hit by vehicles, and 267 more were seriously injured, according to WorkSafeBC.
These workers include traffic control persons, municipal road crews, tow truck drivers, utility staff, and emergency responders. Their jobs often require standing in exposed areas with nothing but a cone or a vest between them and traffic.
What Drivers Need to Know
When you’re behind the wheel, the safety of roadside workers is partly in your hands. According to Road Safety at Work, drivers can help reduce the risk by:
-
Slowing down before entering a Cone Zone
-
Paying close attention to traffic control personnel, signs, and cones
-
Avoiding distractions like phones, food, or in-car tech
-
Being patient—delays are temporary, but injuries can be life-altering
Ignoring posted signage or disobeying a flagger isn’t just dangerous—it can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and penalty points.
Employers and Supervisors: You Play a Critical Role Too
The responsibility doesn’t fall solely on drivers. Employers and supervisors must ensure that roadside workers are properly protected while on the job. This includes meeting all obligations under the Workers Compensation Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.
According to Road Safety at Work’s employer guide, steps to improve safety include:
-
Completing risk assessments for each work site
-
Developing and implementing site-specific traffic control plans
-
Providing workers with high-visibility clothing and PPE
-
Offering proper training and orientation
-
Monitoring performance and continuously improving safety protocols
Resources like templates, training materials, and checklists are available to help organizations stay compliant and protect their teams.
Whether you’re driving through a Cone Zone or supervising a roadside crew, safety is a shared responsibility. The Cone Zone Campaign is a powerful reminder that a moment of inattention can cost someone their life.
As we head into peak construction season, let’s commit to:
-
Slowing down
-
Paying attention
-
And looking out for the people working hard to keep our roads safe
For more information, resources, and campaign materials, visit Road Safety at Work.