Traffic Control Work

Traffic control refers to the management of traffic on roads or construction sites. Traffic control is essential to reduce the chance of traffic accidents and injuries. Continue reading to find out more about traffic control, and how to apply for a job.

What does Traffic Control do?

Traffic control is the process of controlling the flow vehicles, pedestrians and machinery. Signs and barriers are the most basic form of traffic control. Temporary changes may be required for work done on or near roads.

Road accidents account for around one-third all occupational deaths in Australia. These fatalities often occur at work, on or near roads. These fatalities can be reduced by traffic control plans that keep people and vehicles moving around safely.

A "traffic controller" is the person who implements traffic control plans and directs traffic. They control traffic flow and provide direction to road users in order to create a safe working environment. A traffic controller 's duties include:

• To direct traffic, use signs and a slow/stop bat

• Signs and barriers are installed

• Traffic control equipment maintenance

• Traffic control programs

• Handheld devices for communication with workers

• Personal protective equipment

Traffic controllers implement traffic control plans before vehicles arrive on job sites or work on roads. Traffic control plans are used to create safe routes for workers and passers-by. Traffic controllers can use signs and barriers to mark the route, or help guide vehicles using hand signals or signs.

Which Industry is Traffic Control?

Construction is the most common industry for traffic controller jobs. Traffic controllers can control traffic flow on construction sites with moving vehicles or vehicles by diverting traffic. 

Air traffic control is often confused by traffic control. The purpose of air traffic control is to ensure safety in the air by using flight plans. Pilots need to be able to navigate through busy airports. They also need to know a lot of instrument flight rules.

Traffic control is the act of directing traffic on roads in Australia. These tasks are usually performed by the construction industry, but they may also be required by government agencies that complete roadworks.

Traffic Control: How to Get the Job Done

Most traffic controllers work in the construction or for traffic management firms. These are the steps to finding work as a traffic controller:

• Seek entry-level employment

• Construction induction training

• Complete traffic control training

• Request a traffic control card

• Traffic control jobs available

Individuals who want to work as traffic controllers should have at least some experience.

For construction jobs, you will need to complete induction training. This training is a requirement for traffic control positions. It's also the first course you should take. Once you have your white card, it is possible to enrol in practical traffic control training courses.

How to get a job in traffic control

To get a job as a traffic controller, you need to choose a industry and research the job requirements. You also need to complete any training. Construction companies and traffic management firms are the largest employers of traffic controllers.

Online job search websites can be used to aid in your job search. These are some of the most popular job websites in Australia:

• SEEK

• Certainly

• Adzuna

• CareerOne

Construction jobs tend to be the best place to search for traffic control jobs. Although traffic management companies may also employ traffic controllers, they might require more experience.

How to apply for a job in traffic control

Once you have found a job that matches your skills and experience complete the initial application form. Many employers permit you to apply online. You should ensure you are able to meet all requirements before applying online.

It may be necessary to confirm that you have the training required to work as traffic controller. Your traffic control card should be kept safe. Request a replacement card immediately if you lose your card.

What do you need to control traffic?

Accreditation and training are required for traffic control. Special traffic control training courses must be completed by registered training organizations (RTOs), such as AlertForce. You may be required to take the following courses, depending on your state or territory.

• RIIWHS201E – Work safely and follow WHS procedures

• RIIWHS205E – Controlling traffic with stop-slow bats

• RIIWHS206E – Controlling traffic with portable traffic control devices

• RIICOM201E – Communicating in the Workplace

Sometimes, these courses can be combined as part of a training program. These courses are a requirement to be admitted into the traffic control industry. The following are some of the key learning outcomes:

• How to guide people using a slow/stop bat

• Traffic control by handheld devices

• How to implement traffic guidance systems (TGSs).

• Monitoring and assessing road and weather conditions

• Complete a worksite risk assessment

• Respect all road safety laws and regulations

• Submitting and maintaining incident reports

Some states require you to take RIIWHS205E or RIIWHS302E (Implement Traffic Management Plans) in order to be eligible. Other states require only the RIIWHS302E course in traffic management. A RTO can help you get the training that you need in your area.

Training in Traffic Management

Additional training may be required for those who create traffic management plans or traffic guidance schemes. Supervisors and managers who plan work on or near roads may also need this training. A traffic manager might also need to take:

• RIICWD503E – Prepare Traffic Management Plans

• RIIRIS402E – Perform the Risk Management Process

• RIIRIS301D – Apply the Risk Management Process

• RIIWHS303 – Position and Program Portable Traffic Control Devices

You will need to take the course if you haven't completed RIIWHS302E, Implement Traffic Management Plans.

What cards are needed for traffic control?

A card or licence must be obtained from the territory or state where you work. The following authorities issue traffic control cards:

• New South Wales - SafeWork NSW

• Queensland - Department of Transport and Main Roads

• South Australia - Department of Infrastructure and Transport

• Tasmania - Department of State Growth

• Western Australia - Main Roads Western Australia

• ACT - Roads ACT

The region determines the name of the traffic control cards. The traffic control card in NSW was known as the "bluecard". It was replaced by the Traffic Control Work Training Card(TCWTC).

Many states will accept cards from other states. You should review the most recent requirements before you apply to work in another area.

What tickets are required for traffic control?

Businesses and individuals may need approval to implement traffic management plans in many states and territories. You may require a permit or ticket for traffic management to work on or near public roads.

The Tasmanian traffic control ticket is known as a traffic management permit. A road occupancy license is required in NSW. These tickets can only be obtained by an individual who is conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), and not employees.

The Work Health and Safety Act requires that any person who runs a business (or undertaking) must ensure that workers are safe and healthy. They must also protect road users from danger, by ensuring that other people are not at risk.

You will need to have permission to access the roadways in order for workers and road users to be safe. You will need to obtain a permit or a ticket in order to gain access to the roadways. There are also restrictions on the equipment that can be used to manage temporary traffic.

How much does traffic control get paid?

According to Indeed, the base pay for a traffic controller amounts to just over $32 an hour or $63,000 annually. A traffic controller's base salary is similar to that of a construction worker, which is $62,900 annually. Traffic managers can earn more than $100,000 annually.

Talent.com lists a median salary of $81,325 per annum for traffic controllers, and $59 606 per annum for entry-level positions. There may be differences in the pay across the country. The highest-paying jobs as traffic controllers are located in Western Australia, New South Wales, and Western Australia.

Conclusion

For workers and pedestrians working near roads, traffic control is essential. To reduce injuries and accidents, vehicles on construction sites will need guidance. Traffic control training can help you control traffic and make your workplace safer.

Traffic controllers must complete multiple courses. This includes a course on controlling traffic with a slow/stop bat. Once you have completed the training, your state or territory will issue you a traffic controller card or licence. You can then start your career as a traffic controller. AlertForce offers a traffic control training course that will help you to improve your career prospects.