Road works get tougher and more dangerous in true winter conditions! Visibility is reduced for both drivers and workers through shorter days, low sun angles, plus heavy rain – not to mention road spray. A winter compliance check keeps you in the clear and out of trouble. While operating on or near a highway, your odds are better with high-visibility reflective signage. It represents preventative action sooner than a reactionary response.
How visibility disappears over winter
Even if your vehicle markings and lights are in perfect working order by summer standards, their effectiveness can be reduced to near-worthlessness within minutes under winter conditions. Dirt settles on the back of cargo vans, ice clings to shiny things, and darkness occurs earlier in your day, further increasing your need for proper illumination. For details on Chapter 8 Chevrons, visit //www.vehiclechevrons.com/
Maintain chevrons and reflective markings in a clean condition
Chapter 8 chevrons are only effective if they can make light reflect at the driver. During wintertime, the rear doors and bumper will become extremely dirty.
Wipe chevrons before arrival on site (repeating if conditions are poor)
Look for any areas that have lost reflectivity and appear dull
Peeling, bubbling, or highly scuffed panels should be replaced.
A little spritz and a wipe equals the difference between seeable and un-seeable.
Early finishes and falling darkness are a combination that can elevate your lighting game quite quickly.
Ensure amber beacons operate and the light is clear with no cracks.
Clean lenses of dirt, spray, and sea salt film, which leads to reduced output of lighting.
If you’ve got intermittent faults, fix them before leaving the site. Small electrical issues only get worse with the vibrations of winter, moisture, and salt causing corrosion.
Spray, glint, and low sun issues
Drivers may be temporarily blinded by the low sun in winter or unable to assess distance through heavy spray.
Set the vehicles up for maximum visibility for rear incoming traffic.
Put out more cones or signs so that drivers are warned even further in advance when necessary.
PPE and equipment should not be an afterthought
Cold: High viz coats, hoods, and gloves are all essential workwear in wintry weather.
Hi-vis should be worn correctly and not hidden under dark coats.
In cab - PPE (Hi-vis, gloves, waterproofs).
Keep cones and signs free, not obstructed by tools.
Quick takeaway
Winter roadworks visibility is key. In order to do this, you just need clean reflective chevrons, working light,s and smart positioning along with PPE that is correctly worn.