| Step | Potential Hazard | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Assess work area and traffic conditions | Motorists entering work zone, limited sight distance, workers stepping into traffic | Set cones and advance warning signs; use flaggers when needed; assign a lookout to monitor traffic and crew positioning |
| Review sign location and MUTCD requirements | Incorrect sign placement, obstructed sight lines | Verify sign type, height, lateral offset, orientation, and reflectivity meet MUTCD and local standards before installation |
| Inspect tools, materials, and equipment | Damaged posts, dull auger bits, malfunctioning post driver, broken hardware | Check auger, post driver, wrenches, level, and bolts; ensure sign panels and posts are free from defects |
| Don required PPE | Eye injuries, struck by hazards, cuts from sign edges | Wear full PPE before starting installation or removal work |
| Mark location for post installation | Underground utility strikes | Call for utility locates if digging is required; follow established safe digging practices |
| Remove old sign or post (if applicable) | Sharp edges, pinch points, sudden release of tension | Use proper grip and leverage; remove bolts carefully; watch for movement of old post; keep body clear of pinch zones |
| Excavate or drive new post | Struck by equipment, flying debris, vibration exposure | Use auger or post driver with both hands; keep crew clear; maintain stable stance; operate equipment at low speed |
| Set and align post | Strains, unstable footing, improper alignment | Lift post using proper technique; use level to confirm vertical alignment; tamp soil or add concrete as required |
| Attach sign panel | Pinch points, cuts from sign edges, dropping panel | Hold panel firmly with both hands; keep fingers away from bolt holes; use proper hardware and tighten securely |
| Inspect finished installation | Sign not level, wrong height, obstruction of visibility | Verify MUTCD compliance; check height, angle, and clearance; ensure sign is not blocked by vegetation or structures |
| Remove traffic control | Exposure to traffic during takedown | Remove cones and signs only when all tools and crew are clear; use lookout during takedown |
Hard hat
Safety glasses
High visibility vest
Cut resistant gloves
Steel toe boots
Hearing protection if operating power tools
Long pants and long sleeves
Always have a complete, well-stocked first aid kit available.
JSA Category: Roadway Maintenance Operations
* The steps, hazards, and controls displayed above may be incomplete or not suit your department's needs. All job safety analyses should be a completed with frontline worker input to ensure that each potential hazard is identified and mitigated.
Please read about The Essentials Elements of a Solid Job Safety Anaylsis here.
Thank you to our primary sponsor, Roadwurx, which is a simple asset management platform for small public works and road departments.
| Step | Potential Hazard | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Assess work area and traffic conditions | Motorists entering work zone, limited sight distance, workers stepping into traffic | Set cones and advance warning signs; use flaggers when needed; assign a lookout to monitor traffic and crew positioning |
| Review sign location and MUTCD requirements | Incorrect sign placement, obstructed sight lines | Verify sign type, height, lateral offset, orientation, and reflectivity meet MUTCD and local standards before installation |
| Inspect tools, materials, and equipment | Damaged posts, dull auger bits, malfunctioning post driver, broken hardware | Check auger, post driver, wrenches, level, and bolts; ensure sign panels and posts are free from defects |
| Don required PPE | Eye injuries, struck by hazards, cuts from sign edges | Wear full PPE before starting installation or removal work |
| Mark location for post installation | Underground utility strikes | Call for utility locates if digging is required; follow established safe digging practices |
| Remove old sign or post (if applicable) | Sharp edges, pinch points, sudden release of tension | Use proper grip and leverage; remove bolts carefully; watch for movement of old post; keep body clear of pinch zones |
| Excavate or drive new post | Struck by equipment, flying debris, vibration exposure | Use auger or post driver with both hands; keep crew clear; maintain stable stance; operate equipment at low speed |
| Set and align post | Strains, unstable footing, improper alignment | Lift post using proper technique; use level to confirm vertical alignment; tamp soil or add concrete as required |
| Attach sign panel | Pinch points, cuts from sign edges, dropping panel | Hold panel firmly with both hands; keep fingers away from bolt holes; use proper hardware and tighten securely |
| Inspect finished installation | Sign not level, wrong height, obstruction of visibility | Verify MUTCD compliance; check height, angle, and clearance; ensure sign is not blocked by vegetation or structures |
| Remove traffic control | Exposure to traffic during takedown | Remove cones and signs only when all tools and crew are clear; use lookout during takedown |
Hard hat
Safety glasses
High visibility vest
Cut resistant gloves
Steel toe boots
Hearing protection if operating power tools
Long pants and long sleeves