What is the purpose of the Buffer Zone in a work area?

The purpose of the Buffer Zone in a work area is to create a safe space that separates workers and construction activities from moving traffic. This zone helps to protect both workers and drivers by providing an area where they can operate without immediate danger from vehicles. By maintaining this separation, the Buffer Zone reduces the risk of accidents and allows for safer conditions in the work area.

Having this designated area is crucial because it not only enhances the safety of the workers on site but also helps to keep traffic flowing smoothly around the work zone. Effective traffic control requires clear delineation between the moving traffic and construction activities, which the Buffer Zone accomplishes. This focus on safety and traffic management is a fundamental principle in OSHA’s guidelines for work zones.