Safer construction zones for motorists, workers

Contractors are now required to cover speed reduction signage in a construction zone when no workers are present and if there are no safety concerns.

The government is also limiting the distance of highway lane closures, making sure signs leading to construction zones are consistent and creating longer transition zones for slowing down.

“One of the major complaints we hear every year is that reduced speed limits are enforced when it’s obvious no work is occurring at the construction site. These changes will make sure our construction workers are safe as they build our roadways, while also helping commuters spend less time in traffic and more time doing the things they love.” — Brian Mason, Minister of Transportation

Safety remains the highest priority for road construction projects. Speed reductions will continue to be enforced when and where necessary to protect highway workers and the travelling public. Speed fines will continue to be doubled when highway workers are present.

Quick facts

Construction zone requirements include:

• More consistent use of road construction signage.
• Limiting the distance of lane closures in construction zones, in most cases to a maximum of three kilometres.
• Speed zone reductions reflect potential safety hazards and range from 50 km/hr to 100km/hr, even when workers are not present.
• More gradual speed reductions through construction zones.
• Longer distances for speed transition zones in advance of construction zones.
• More frequent use of electronic speed displays and rumble strips to slow traffic at the actual construction site.