Many civil construction services are undertaken at night to reduce their impact on our roads. However, for as many benefits as night road works have, they also come with their fair share of risks. Discover the risks and rewards of night road works and how companies such as TSL Group make night works as safe as possible.
Benefits of Night Road Works
Reduce Traffic Congestion
Night road works can reduce traffic congestion by exploiting the low traffic volumes. Road work that requires lane closures or detours can be done more efficiently and with less impact on traffic flow during these hours. Night works are especially beneficial in urban areas where traffic congestion is a significant issue during peak hours.
Shorten Timelines
Night road works can stop projects dragging for weeks by simply changing the working hours. By operating at night, workers can carry out tasks without constant traffic and the extra complications it brings. Additionally, the longer working hours mean work can be completed in fewer days, reducing the project’s overall duration.
Increase Safety
Night road works can increase safety for workers as there is typically less traffic on the roads, reducing the risk of accidents involving workers. In addition, cooler temperatures at night can also reduce the risk of heat exhaustion or other heat-related illnesses for workers.
Risks of Night Works
Noise Pollution
Road works tend to get noisy, and it only gets more noticeable at night. The noise generated during night road works can significantly disturb nearby residents. Noise pollution can also concern businesses near construction sites, as it can disrupt their operations and impact their customers.
Reduced Visibility
Due to reduced visibility, night road works pose risks for workers and drivers. Inadequate lighting can make it difficult for workers to see their surroundings and perform tasks safely. For drivers, reduced visibility can make navigating the work zone challenging, especially if the road markings are not visible.
How to Mitigate the Risks of Night Works
Reduce Noise Pollution
Many construction projects now have successful noise reduction strategies using newer equipment and sound-absorbing materials. Scheduling noisy work when residents are least likely to be asleep at the beginning of the shift helps reduce disruption.
Increase Visibility
Poor lighting conditions at night can pose a risk to workers and motorists. Measures such as adequate lighting, reflective clothing and signs, and illuminated barriers can help improve visibility.
Communicating with Local Businesses
Effective communication with businesses and communities is critical to the success of night road works projects. Construction companies should provide advance notice of the project and its potential impacts, regularly communicate updates and address concerns.
Make the Most of Night Works with TSL Group
To get the most out of night road works, companies must understand the risks involved and act against them to ensure the safety of workers, motorists and nearby pedestrians. Whether it’s asphalt surfacing or traffic management, TSL Group can help. Our team takes the utmost care to ensure the safety of everyone in and around our sites. Contact us today to find out more about our services.