Remembering Safety for National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW)

Every spring, construction season starts off with an important reminder: National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW). The initiative, sponsored by the American Traffic Safety Services (ATSS) Foundation, began in 2000 as an effort to spread awareness about the dangers to motorists and workers safety in work zones due to inattention. 

The National Safety Council (NSC) reports more than 950 people were killed and over 42,000 individuals were injured in work zone accidents in 2021. Though work zone deaths reached an all-time high in 2002 at 1,186 people, fatalities have increased 63% since 2010.

At Hill & Smith Inc., we’re dedicated to designing and manufacturing products that protect both workers and motorists. Whether it’s versatile and brilliant message boards, innovative barriers, or complete smart work zone systems, we foster safety using the latest software and engineering technology to connect work zones using a clear line of communication to convey traffic conditions, impact notices, and information about delays and detours. Ultimately, we believe we travel safely when we work connected.

The NWZAW kickoff event will be hosted by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) on April 16. Join us as we advocate for work zone safety. 

National Work Zone Awareness Week Activities

NWZAW 2024 is April 15-19, hosted by Maryland Department of Transportation. NWZAW highlights the deadly dangers of inattention at highway work areas. The 2024 weeklong commemoration included:

• Work Zone Safety Training Day – April 15
• National kickoff event – April 16
• Go Orange Day – April 17
• Social media storm – April 18
• Moment of Silence – April 19. The moment of silence was started in 2022 to remember the work zone workers whose lives were lost in a work zone incident.

Travel Safe. Work Connected.