Highway Maintenance Worker how-to

How to Set Up a Highway Work Zone

Work zones protect workers.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Work zones protect workers. In short: pick; place; taper, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Pick the right layout.

  2. Place advance signs.

  3. Taper cones.

  4. Set a buffer.

  5. Use flaggers if needed.

  6. Remove in reverse order.

Safety reminders for highway maintenance workers

  • Wear high-visibility gear
  • Set proper work zones
  • Watch traffic
  • Follow chainsaw safety

Pothole · Cold patch · Hot mix · Brine · Plow route · Guardrail: see the full highway maintenance worker glossary.

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