Roadwork safety film packs powerful message

UK Power Networks has produced a hard-hitting training film with the aim to make UK roadworks sites are safer by helping to train utility and highway workers.

The film shows a young mum, who decides to push her pram into the road to avoid roadworks, after safety barriers were knocked down, and is subsequently hit by a van. It shows a worker had been distracted by a telephone call and had failed to check the site properly.

The video follows the emotional impact as the worker reflects on his mistake and how the tragic accident could have been avoided.

Around four million excavations are undertaken on roads each year, including 2.5 million by utility companies. UK Power Networks carries out more than 75,000 roadworks a year to maintain and install electricity cables, and safety is the top priority.

Richard Boissieux, Street Works Manager for UK Power Networks, said: “Street works are necessary to provide and maintain utility and transport services, but can pose a risk to others if standards are not kept in relation to signs, lighting and safeguards.

“Safety is paramount at UK Power Networks and, working with our partners, we wanted to update existing videos on this subject with a deliberately hard-hitting film to demonstrate a worst-case scenario. The message of the film is that all road and utility workers have a responsibility to ensure the highest standards are maintained, not just for excavation teams but also the public passing by.”

Kent County Council’s Highway Policy and Inspection Manager David Latham said: “We are proud to support this safety video through our Lane Rental Fund.

“As joint chair of HAUC England [Highway Authorities and Utilities Committee] I am pleased to endorse this important safety message and thank UK Power Networks for their production of the video for the benefit of all those who carry out work on the highway.”

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