Temporary Condition Signs: Construction Zones & Traffic Control

Understanding Temporary Condition Signs:Temporary condition signs warn of unusual temporary conditions such as road work zones, diversions, detours, lane closures or traffic control people on the road. They are usually diamond-shaped with an orange background and black letters or symbols.

Construction Zone Warning Signs:

Construction work one kilometre ahead. Prepare for changed conditions and possible delays.

Road work in progress ahead. Reduce speed and exercise caution.

Survey crew working on the road ahead. Watch for workers and equipment.

Drive slowly and watch for instructions from flaggers directing traffic.

You are entering a construction zone. Drive with extra caution and be prepared for lower speed limit.

Temporary detour from normal traffic route. Follow detour markers.

Lane Control and Traffic Flow:

Flashing lights on arrows show the direction to follow when lanes are closed or shifted.

Pavement has been milled or grooved. Vehicle's stopping ability may be affected so obey speed limit and drive with extra caution. Motorcyclists may experience reduced traction.

Lane ahead is closed for roadwork. Obey speed limit and merge with traffic in open lane.

Closed lane indicated by arrow. Adjust speed to merge with traffic in lane shown by arrow.

Do not pass the pilot vehicle or pace vehicle bearing this sign. Follow at safe distance.

Reduce speed and be prepared to stop for changing conditions ahead.

Detour and Navigation:

Follow detour marker until you return to regular route. These are usually numbered or lettered for easy following.

Enforces doubling of HTA fines for speeding in designated construction zone when workers are present.

Construction Zone Safety Rules:

When Approaching Construction Zones:• Slow down as soon as you see warning signs• Obey posted speed limits - they are often reduced for safety• Increase following distance to allow more stopping time• Stay alert for workers and equipment• Don't change lanes unless necessary• Be patient with delays

Inside Construction Zones:• Maintain reduced speed throughout entire work zone• Keep both hands on steering wheel for better control• Avoid distractions like cell phones or radio adjustments• Watch for uneven pavement, loose gravel, or debris• Be prepared for sudden stops• Don't tailgate - construction zones require extra stopping distance

Worker Safety Considerations:• Workers are required to wear high-visibility clothing• Construction vehicles may enter or exit work area unexpectedly• Be especially cautious around flaggers - they control traffic for worker safety• Never argue with or ignore directions from traffic control personnel• Equipment may obstruct normal sight lines

Legal Consequences in Construction Zones:• Fines are doubled when workers are present• Serious violations can result in licence suspension• Careless driving charges more likely in work zones• Insurance companies may deny claims for violations in construction zones

Navigating Detours:• Follow detour signs in sequence• Don't attempt shortcuts - they may lead to dead ends• Allow extra travel time for detour routes• Keep detour information with you for return trip• Local traffic may use different routes than posted detours

Special Equipment in Construction Zones:• Pilot vehicles guide traffic through single-lane sections• Pace vehicles control traffic speed through work areas• Temporary traffic signals may be installed• Portable signs may be moved as work progresses• Electronic message boards provide current information

Weather Considerations:• Construction zones more hazardous in poor weather• Dust from construction can reduce visibility• Mud and debris may make roads slippery• Temporary pavement may have different traction characteristics