Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

G5−4: Nighttime Lighting Specification

DESCRIPTION:

To mitigate the impact of construction activities to the traveling public and to maximize the duration of construction operations for contractors, many States are conducting work at night on major roadways. To improve safety for both workers and travelers nighttime lighting specifications are typically necessary.

• In New Jersey a multi discipline task force evaluated the existing specification in an effort to determine the required levels of illumination to enhance work zone safety and provide quality workmanship for specific work elements. A final specification was developed and incorporated into the New Jersey Department of Transportation standard specifications.
• Washington frequently specifies the use of temporary high mast illumination which consists of 100−foot timbers placed in non−conflict areas to provide a consistent, high level of lighting for long term construction projects. Washington also requires portable lighting at all flagging locations with a height of 15−25ft to highlight the presence of the flagger but also to minimize glare to drivers.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

To ensure adequate levels of illumination for work done at night.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Enhancement of work zone safety for travelers and workers during night work, and increased quality level of workmanship.

MOST APPLICABLE LOCATION(S)/PROJECT(S):

The night lighting specification is applicable to all projects that specify or allow night work, typically high volume areas.

RELATED BEST PRACTICES:
Nighttime Construction Operations (Practice G1−5)

STATE(S) WHERE USED:

New Jersey, Washington

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Ronald Maruca, Manager, Bureau of Construction Management, New Jersey DOT
Phone: (609) 530−5500
E−mail: Ronald.Maruca@dot.state.nj.us