07-05-2025
Spring and summer increase work zones, posing risks to crews
HENRIETTA, N.Y. (WROC) — Just a few weeks after New York State recognized National Work Zone Safety Awareness Week, Wednesday's event turned the focus to the front crews who work in active zones.
'It's a chance for our employees throughout our region to come together and get. Thanks for, well, job well done. During the winter time, with all the hard and work that they do. And then to talk about the upcoming spring and summer season,' said Cory Martindale, employee safety and health rep for the Department of Transportation.
From heavy rain to high winds, extreme weather can leave behind hazardous debris on roadways. Crews are often the first to respond, working quickly to clear the roads and keep drivers safe. But knowing when it's safe to step in—and when it's not—can make all the difference.
'They deal with them quite often when we have bad weather, whether it's flooding, weather, high winds and stuff, and they have to go out and get this, these, this debris picked up off the road. The awareness is great for them to know what they're dealing with and when not to get involved,' said Martindale.
With more work zones popping up, road crews face serious risks just feet from speeding traffic. Staying alert is key to staying safe.
'Just keeping themselves aware because work zones are going to be coming out. They're going to be larger out there in the public, and it gives them a chance to, you know, kind of be on the defensive knowing that there are cars speeding by. And all they're being blocked by is a cone. So we try to remind them to, not get complacent and, and be aware,' Martindale said.
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