National Grid reminds drivers to slow down when approaching work zones on roads and highways as part of National Work Zone Awareness Week. The annual commemoration, promoted by the U.S. Department of Transportation, takes place April 11-15, and marks the start of spring construction season.

The onset of spring means National Grid crews will begin performing necessary infrastructure upgrades along roads and some may require roadway work areas, including lane or shoulder closures. Observing warnings is a matter of safety for both our crews and drivers. Slowing down and paying attention to your surroundings can ensure the wellbeing of all involved.

Struck-by incidents are a leading cause of death among construction workers, and the leading cause of nonfatal injuries in the construction industry. An average of 77 construction workers were struck and killed by vehicles in work zones between 2011 and 2019, the most current data available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

National Grid workers go through extensive training on work zone safety. Crews on duty in work zones or near our infrastructure wear high-visibility garments, eye protection and hardhats.

The U.S. Department of Transportation offers the following tips for driving safely through work zones:

• Plan Ahead: Research your route before heading out. When possible, avoid work zones and use detours when available.
• Stay Focused: Keep your eyes on the road is especially important in work zones. Note all instructions on work zone signage, including speed limits, lane changes and shifts, and any closures. Keep both hands on the wheel and off your cell phone, radio, navigation device. Put down any food or drinks to ensure your full attention is on the road in front of you.
• Slow Down: Many states, including New York, require drivers to reduce their speed in work zones. Share the road with work crews by following the posted speeds.
• Move into the Open Lane: When lanes close, move over as soon as it is safe and possible. Pay attention to your blind spot for other vehicles.
• Keep Your Distance: Rear-end collisions are very common in work zones, as cars wait until the last minute to change lanes or stop quickly. When you are driving, leave sufficient distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Never cut off a bus or large commercial vehicle, like a box truck or 18-wheeler, as those vehicles require more braking distance to reach a stop.

About National Grid

About National Grid: National Grid (NYSE: NGG) is an electricity, natural gas, and clean energy delivery company serving more than 20 million people through our networks in New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. National Grid is transforming our electricity and natural gas networks with smarter, cleaner, and more resilient energy solutions to meet the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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