EHS glossary>Safety term

The Definition of Traffic Control Plan

A traffic control plan details how vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be managed safely around a work zone.

Plain-English definition
Real-world example

Definition of Traffic Control Plan

A documented plan outlining signage, barriers, flaggers, detours, and other measures used to safely manage the flow of vehicles and pedestrians around a temporary work zone, protecting both workers and the public.

Example of Traffic Control Plan

A road resurfacing crew implements a traffic control plan that includes lane closures, advance warning signs, and trained flaggers to safely direct traffic around the work area.

Frequently Asked Questions: Traffic Control Plan

Who is responsible for developing a traffic control plan?

‍Traffic control plans are typically developed by a qualified traffic control supervisor or engineer, often in accordance with standards such as the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

What elements are commonly included in a traffic control plan?

‍Common elements include signage placement, barrier and cone layouts, flagger positions, detour routes, and speed reduction zones tailored to the specific work being performed.

Is a traffic control plan required for all roadwork?

‍Requirements vary by jurisdiction and project scope, but most roadwork affecting public traffic — even short-duration work — requires some form of documented traffic control plan.

Part of SafetyIQ's EHS glossary: plain-English definitions of workplace health and safety terms.

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