Traffic controllers probably have one of the most dangerous jobs, with Smith’s Lawyers reporting 67 fatalities in 2022 alone. They play a crucial role in protecting both the public and workers at construction and civil sites.
For many years, accredited traffic control and traffic management training across Queensland has prepared professionals for this critical work. Formal training gives traffic controllers the skills to handle tricky situations safely and confidently.
If you want to start a career in managing traffic on-site, too, start with the right training. Here’s all you need to know about the guidelines you’ll follow.
Understanding the Role of Traffic Controllers
Traffic controllers are often mistaken with traffic management implementers. Here’s what you should know about each role.
Traffic Controllers (TC)
Traffic controllers are responsible for safely directing vehicles and pedestrians through or around construction and civil sites. Their main duty is to maintain safety for all parties in these high-risk areas. They often work independently or as part of a traffic management team.
Since it’s a pretty autonomous job, it demands a high level of focus. Traffic controllers play a very important part in preventing road accidents.
Traffic Management Implementers (TMI)
Traffic management implementers (TMI) plan and execute Traffic Guidance Schemes (TGS). These schemes protect road workers and the public while maintaining a consistent traffic flow. TMIs also oversee the setup and removal of road barriers, detours, and traffic signage in real-time situations.
Road Safety Guidelines for Traffic Controllers
As a traffic controller, you’re required to follow certain guidelines to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians. Here are some of the main guidelines.
Understanding and Assessing the Worksite
Before starting any job, traffic controllers must assess the worksite. This way, they can identify road conditions, traffic volume, and potential hazards.
This is the most important step since it helps ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent accidents. You’ll need to give special attention to high-risk areas like intersections, pedestrian crossings, and zones with heavy machinery.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Safety starts with the right gear. Traffic controllers must wear high-visibility clothing, helmets, gloves, and eye protection to stay safe on the job.
No piece of PPE is “skippable,” especially when working in high-traffic areas. You’ll need to make sure all PPE complies with Australian safety standards, too.
Effective Communication
Clear communication is a must-have skill for traffic controllers as it can prevent confusion and incidents. You’ll rely on hand signals, signage, and radios to coordinate with team members.
Traffic controllers must also be able to guide drivers and pedestrians safely through construction zones. Miscommunication can lead to dangerous situations, so use simple instructions to ensure everyone understands.
Monitoring Traffic Conditions
Traffic conditions can change in an instant. Constant vigilance is absolutely crucial to adjust traffic flow based on weather, road conditions, or unexpected changes.
Traffic controllers must also be prepared to give the right of way to emergency vehicles. Other than that, they’ll need to redirect vehicles quickly and safely to prevent dangerous backups or accidents.
Course Types and Training Requirements
In Australia, traffic controllers are required to complete certain training courses to get the right qualifications and licenses. That includes:
Traffic Control (TC) Course
The TC course teaches you how to safely direct traffic and maintain pedestrian safety at construction and civil sites. You’ll learn to manage traffic flow, communicate with drivers, and assess worksite risks. These courses use real-world scenarios to give you a hands-on experience in high-pressure environments.
By the end of the course, you’ll have all the skills needed to work independently or as part of a traffic management team. That includes traffic control on both small and large-scale projects, keeping everyone on-site safe and traffic moving smoothly.
Traffic Management Implementer (TMI) Course
TMI courses focus on developing and implementing Traffic Guidance Schemes for roadwork zones. You’ll learn how to plan, execute, and review traffic management strategies that keep road workers and the public safe. It covers site-specific assessments, setup, and removal of traffic control devices.
You’ll also learn to manage complicated traffic during roadworks, construction projects, or events. After completing the course, you can take on any role in managing traffic flow.
Key Safety Practices for Traffic Control and Management
Beyond the must-follow guidelines, traffic controllers should also keep certain best practices in mind while on the job.
Correct Placement of Signage and Barriers
Proper placement of signs and barriers warns of oncoming traffic and keeping everyone safe. You’ll need to follow the traffic management plan (TMP) when positioning these tools for maximum effectiveness.
Signs must be clear, highly visible, and compliant with both local and national safety regulations. Any misplacement can lead to confusion or accidents. A study found that 26 out of 66 traffic controllers reported drivers ignoring signage and instructions as a major cause of incidents.
Continuous On-site Monitoring and Adjustments
Traffic conditions and worksite dynamics can be pretty unpredictable. Regular on-site monitoring allows you to adapt the traffic management setup as needed.
For instance, you may need to adjust for weather or make a shift in the construction phase. Staying proactive like this can help you prevent incidents. Coordinating with site supervisors also ensures every adjustment aligns with the TMP.
Emergency Preparedness
Traffic controllers must be ready to respond to accidents, sudden changes in traffic flow, or emergencies at any moment. Every controller should be trained in emergency protocols and first aid. That includes knowing the proper steps to reduce the impact of incidents and protect workers, drivers, and pedestrians.
Benefits of Becoming a Qualified Traffic Controller or Implementer
Considering a career in traffic control and management? Here are a few of the many benefits you can expect with such a role:
- Career Opportunities: Queensland has invested $92 billion in infrastructure projects for the next five years, which is why the demand for qualified traffic controllers is higher than ever. These skills open up career paths in road construction, event management, civil engineering, and more.
- Industry-Recognised Qualifications: Training with a reputable Registered Training Organisation (RTO) offers a ton of advantages. An industry-recognised certification can open doors for local and national job opportunities, allowing you to work on larger projects or even manage teams of traffic controllers.
- Contribution to Road Safety: As a qualified traffic controller or implementer, you’ll be protecting lives. Your expertise helps prevent accidents and keeps both workers and the public safe in high-risk environments. It’s a career that provides real value to the community!
Traffic controllers and traffic management implementers have the crucial responsibility of maintaining road safety. They protect both workers and the public from accidents in high-risk areas. To acquire such an important role, traffic controllers must get proper training through accredited courses like Traffic Control (TC) and Traffic Management Implementation (TMI).
If you’re interested in a career in traffic control or management, don’t hesitate to enrol via our website today.