Spring Safety Has Sprung

By Cole Bridges | Field Manager

It is that time of year when TREKK’s field crews are ramping up for spring cleaning, flow monitoring and assessment of our underground utilities. Along with spring cleaning comes spring fever drivers, which is why April has been designated National Driving Awareness Month. It’s a critical reminder of the importance of keeping focused squarely on the road. While safety is a year-round activity, spring holds a unique awareness, demanding our attention. As our crews open manholes in the street or the right of way, driver alertness is a key component to our safety.

Inattentiveness is the leading cause of road accidents and fatalities for both the drivers and crews in work zones. Part of TREKK’s safety procedures when performing work in and around traffic is to be aware of factors that influence traffic-related hazards such as sun glare, rain, wind, flash flooding, limited sight-distance, hills, curves, guardrails, shoulder width and anything else that might contribute to a distracted driver.

First and foremost, our crews have prepared a mental escape route in the event of an incident. Our “buddy system” requires one crew member to be alert to traffic while the other is engaged in activity, especially when that worker is facing away from traffic. We never assume drivers are looking out for us.

TREKK teams have a passion for the work they do. That passion evolves out of a need to work smarter, faster and—most importantly—safer. We integrate technology with commonsense solutions and a strong understanding of the inherent risks involved, whether it be entering a confined space area or working in traffic. As a grandfather of six, I am comforted to know that TREKK’s safety procedures and core values prioritize my well-being, the lives of my crews and the traveling public.