Traffic marshals perform a vital role on construction sites. They keep vehicles moving safely, protect workers and visitors, and prevent accidents before they happen.
However, even a small mistake can have serious consequences. A missed signal, a poor decision or a moment’s distraction — all it takes is one slip for someone to get hurt.
Site owners rely heavily on traffic marshals to manage vehicle movements and associated risks. That means ensuring marshals are properly trained, supported and alert to the hazards around them.
This article explores five common mistakes traffic marshals make — and what construction site owners can do to prevent them.
Mistake 1: Inadequate Understanding of Site-Specific Risks
No two construction sites are exactly alike. What is safe and straightforward on one site may be dangerous on another.
Traffic marshals must have a thorough understanding of the specific site layout, hazards and vehicle flow. They need to know where blind spots are, where pedestrian routes cross vehicle paths and which areas experience the most activity.
Without this knowledge, accidents can happen quickly. A Marshal might guide a vehicle into an unsafe area, overlook new obstacles that appeared during the shift or fail to react appropriately to changes in the working environment.
Training is key. Obtaining a Traffic Marshal certificate is an excellent starting point. It covers basic duties, safe positioning, effective communication and managing risks. However, learning should not stop after the initial course. Site-specific inductions, regular briefings and updates are essential.
A well-trained Traffic Marshal with a strong understanding of the actual site conditions is an invaluable asset.
Mistake 2: Poor Communication with Drivers and Workers
Clear communication is at the heart of safe traffic movements on construction sites.
Traffic marshals must be clear, consistent and visible. They should use recognised hand signals, position themselves where drivers can see them, and remain fully alert throughout operations.
Poor communication creates confusion. Drivers may misinterpret signals. Workers may move into unsafe zones. Vehicles can end up in dangerous locations.
The risks are even higher on busy, noisy sites. If marshals use unclear gestures or fail to agree clear communication protocols in advance, the chances of an accident increase.
While radios can help, they cannot replace clear visual signals and eye contact. Marshals should also discuss movement plans with drivers beforehand, particularly when manoeuvring large vehicles in confined spaces.
Training, regular practice and constant situational awareness are crucial. A traffic marshal who communicates effectively prevents many problems before they have a chance to develop.
Mistake 3: Standing in Unsafe Positions
It is surprisingly easy for traffic marshals to find themselves in dangerous positions without realising it.
Standing directly behind a reversing vehicle, walking too close to moving loads or standing in areas without a clear escape route are all common mistakes — and all carry serious risks.
A competent Traffic Marshal maintains a safe distance from moving vehicles. They ensure they are positioned where drivers can see them easily and where they have an escape route in case something goes wrong.
Safe positioning also involves being aware of other hazards, such as uneven ground, open excavations or loose materials.
Prioritising personal safety must always come before convenience or speed. Taking a few extra seconds to move into a safe, visible position is far better than taking unnecessary risks.
Mistake 4: Failing to Adapt to Changing Site Conditions
Construction sites are dynamic, constantly changing environments.
Deliveries arrive. Temporary structures are erected. Excavations are dug and filled. Weather conditions alter the terrain and visibility.
A Traffic Marshal who assumes the site remains the same throughout the day is putting themselves and others at risk.
Dynamic risk assessment is essential. Marshals should inspect their working area at the beginning of each shift and remain alert to changes throughout the day.
Daily briefings can support this process. Quick updates should be given whenever major changes occur, such as a crane lift, a change to vehicle routes, or the commencement of a major pour.
Flexibility and constant vigilance are the qualities that make the difference between safe site management and serious mistakes.
Mistake 5: Lack of Refresher Training and Skills Updates
Even experienced traffic marshals can fall into bad habits over time. Skills fade. Standards slip. New procedures or regulations are introduced without everyone being kept informed.
Without refresher training, marshals may continue working based on outdated practices that no longer meet the site’s needs.
Complacency is a genuine risk. Marshals may start using incomplete hand signals, stand too close to moving vehicles or forget to check blind spots thoroughly.
Ongoing training helps prevent this. Enabling marshals to complete construction compliance training ensures they stay up to date with safe working practices, revised site procedures and any new regulations. Sites that invest in regular training for their traffic marshals enjoy stronger, more consistent safety standards.
Legal Responsibilities of Site Owners Regarding Traffic Marshals
Ultimately, site owners and principal contractors carry responsibility for the safety of their projects.
Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015), clients and contractors must ensure that all workers are competent to perform their roles safely. This includes traffic marshals.
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 also imposes a general duty of care. Employers must take reasonable steps to protect workers and anyone else affected by their operations.
If traffic marshals are not properly trained, briefed or supervised, site owners face significant legal and financial risks, including fines, enforcement notices and reputational damage.
Ensuring that traffic marshals hold a valid certificate, complete thorough site-specific inductions and receive ongoing support is not merely best practice. It is a legal expectation.
Best Practices for Supporting Traffic Marshals
A competent Traffic Marshal is a major asset to any construction project. However, they need the right support to perform their role effectively.
Site owners can help by:
- Providing thorough site-specific inductions: Familiarise marshals with vehicle routes, pedestrian zones, hazards and emergency procedures from the outset.
- Holding daily briefings: Even a short meeting to highlight site changes can make a significant difference.
- Encouraging open communication: Marshals should feel comfortable raising concerns about new hazards or unclear procedures.
- Scheduling regular refresher training: Update marshals whenever vehicle routes change, weather worsens or new equipment is introduced.
- Providing appropriate equipment: High-visibility clothing, radios and any other necessary gear help marshals communicate clearly and remain highly visible.
Supporting traffic marshals properly strengthens the entire site’s safety performance — protecting workers, visitors and vehicle operators alike.
Final Takeaway
Traffic marshals carry significant responsibility. They guide large, heavy vehicles through often confined and hazardous spaces. They protect individuals who may not even be aware of the risks around them.
Mistakes occur when marshals are left without proper training, adequate supervision or timely updates. They happen when safety is treated as an afterthought rather than a core priority.
Construction site owners and managers have the power to change that.
A well-trained, well-supported Traffic Marshal is not just another site worker. They are a crucial link in the chain of site safety — reducing accidents, saving money and ensuring projects run smoothly.
Good traffic management saves lives. It starts by ensuring that traffic marshals have the knowledge, tools and support they need — every single day.