Traffic control is required in so many facets of everyday life. There are construction sites, events, road worksites, road closures with detours and part road closures. So with the great need for managing traffic flow, what’s involved in being a traffic controller?
The duties of a traffic controller are to fully manage traffic within a zone and are authorised to control and direct vehicle movement within that controlled area. It involves effective planning and coordination to enable a smooth and safe flow of traffic, whilst also taking into account the requirements of the site. This important job therefore requires an effective balance between meeting the needs of the construction site, emergency service personnel, maintenance repairers or event holders and the needs of general motorists to minimise traffic delays and long queues.
Changes to traffic conditions is a high risk situation for everyone, and left unmanaged or managed ineffectively puts everyone at risk of a major safety incident. Traffic controllers need to plan effectively to be able to think on the spot and quickly attend to changes in conditions and surrounding environment. Therefore the role would ideally suit someone that is a quick thinker and has good communication skills.
Due to the nature of the role and level of responsibility the position carries, traffic controllers are required to be licensed. Star Training & Assessing offer a one day training course covering the stages of traffic control, WH&S awareness, operation, removal, communication and stop/slow batten use. This licence allows traffic controllers to work at different sites, controlling traffic with a stop/slow batten and using a two-way radio system on public and private roads, restricted access areas, construction sites and parking areas.
If gaining your Traffic Controllers licence is something you have been interested in obtaining, then contact Star Training & Assessing and book into their next one day training day, click here.