AWU Victorian Secretary Cesar Melhem said road-workers were among the most at-risk in the workforce, and would benefit greatly from the strong code of practice.

 “We hear stories from our members every day of incidents and near-misses that could, and sometimes do have serious consequences for roadworkers,” Cesar said.

New measures will improve road-workers safety

 “These new measures will go a long way to improving the effectiveness of roadwork zones.”

Telling motorists the reason for lower speed limits on long-term freeway projects, increased scrutiny of contractors by VicRoads and exceptional circumstances necessary for speed limits more than 20km/h lower than normal, would all have an immediate and positive impact on safety.

Need better regulation of traffic control contractors

Cesar said greater provision for cyclists and pedestrians around worksites, and exclusion of contractors from future government road projects when they failed to meet standards were also logical developments.

However, there was still a need for proper regulation of traffic control contractors who often adopted practices that put their workers at risk.

“I believe motorists will accept, and probably welcome all these new measures.

Give drivers and road-workers peace of mind

" At the end of the day, no-one wants to be responsible for the death or injury of a roadworker,” he said.

“Holding traffic regulation contractors to account would be another move that would not only protect workers but give motorists greater peace of mind.”

To read the Media Release from the Minister or Roads and Ports click here