Key points
Work zones are dangerous for workers and for motorists who drive through them. Employers, workers, and drivers can keep highway work zones safe.
Why it's important
A work zone is an area of a highway with construction, maintenance, or utility work activities. It often includes:
- Signs
- Channelizing devices
- Barriers
- Pavement markings
- Work vehicles
Workers might be struck by a passing motorist or by construction equipment.
What we know
In 2022 the following occurred in work zones:123
- About 96,000 crashes
- About 37,000 injuries
- 891 fatal injuries
- 136 pedestrian fatal injuries; 105 were workers
Content Source
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
About This Page
Published: November 20, 2024
Updated: October 28, 2026
This page was last updated on this date. Updates may include minor edits, image changes, or other modifications to page content.
Reviewed: November 6, 2024
The information on this page was last reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy.
- Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation.
- General Estimates System and Crash Report Sampling System, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation.
- The National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse. Work Zone Data.