Construction Traffic Controller: Education Requirements
A traffic controller directs vehicles, machinery, and other road users on roads, especially around construction sites. You’ve probably met them when driving along roads undergoing repairs; however, their work involves more than installing “Stop” and “Go” signs. They are usually involved in setting up warning signs along the road, inspecting and cleaning them, and monitoring the safety of everyone around the site; this is why they need to undertake a traffic controller course to ensure they are certified and well-prepared to manage active sites. For you to become a traffic controller, you will have to meet a few educational requirements. Read on as we explain what courses you must take to become a traffic controller and your expected duties and responsibilities.
What Level of Education Do You Need?
About 21% of traffic controllers are estimated to have a bachelor’s degree. However, you can still become a traffic controller even if you haven’t attended college. Most companies will hire anyone who has at least a high school diploma and has undergone white card training to become certified. Other bare minimums you will be expected to have include organizational skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. That’s why having experience in other industries, such as cashier, salesperson, or customer service, can be a plus and increase your chances of getting hired.
Which Courses Are Required for Traffic Control?
Traffic control is a serious responsibility that needs someone who has theoretical and practical training in live road environments. For starters, you must sign up for a training course from an accredited institution and complete the course successfully. During the course, you will undergo written and practical assessments to ensure you have gained the knowledge you need to operate in traffic environments. Once your training is approved, you will receive a white card, an accreditation that you have successfully undertaken the course and are ready to work. Note that you must undertake a refresher course every three years to keep your accreditation up-to-date.
What Are the Duties of a Traffic Controller?
The first step when working around much traffic is ensuring your safety and that of others. So, for starters, you must wear reflective clothing and protective equipment such as hard hats and steel-capped shoes.
Second, the job may involve physical demands, such as lifting heavy objects when preparing a work site. Additionally, you may be required to stand for long hours at a time, so make sure you are physically capable of performing these tasks.
Other everyday tasks to expect include:
- Setting up and pulling down road signs
- Cleaning sites to minimize the impact of the roadwork project on road users
- Directing vehicle traffic
- Cleaning and maintaining various equipment
- Reporting safety issues to supervisors.
Concluding Observations
Becoming a traffic controller is easy if you dedicate yourself to learning the safety measures and receive adequate training to conduct yourself in a live traffic environment. Traffic controllers have many job opportunities in various industries, such as construction, road work, mining, and building industries. So, take this course today and start your career journey as a traffic controller.
