The Traffic Management Association of Australia (TMAA) has released its 2024 National Traffic Controller Safety Survey, a comprehensive study shedding light on the experiences and concerns of these essential workers across the country.
As the national peak body for the traffic management industry in Australia, the Traffic Management Association of Australia (TMAA) strives to create a safe and zero-harm industry across the country.
In doing so, the TMAA conducts and releases an annual survey to provide industry members with some critical safety insights.
This year’s report gathered data from over 1500 respondents and builds upon the foundation of the TMAA’s 2023 survey, with a 500 per cent increase in participation.
The survey offers a more robust and detailed picture of the safety landscape facing traffic controllers, by providing a wealth of information about the experiences and perceptions experienced by professionals nationwide.
A notable shift in demographics from last year’s survey shows a larger representation of both men and women, with a more diverse age range and a spread of experience across various industries.
Matthew Bereni, Chief Executive Officer, TMAA says this survey data will ultimately lead to improvements in the safety of traffic controllers on the ground, a top priority for TMAA.
“We’re doing our part by developing a critical benchmarking dataset, which allows us to advocate more effectively and run an informed advocacy program,” he says.
“We’re constantly in conversations with decision-makers at all levels of government, pushing for policy or regulatory changes. However, meaningful change doesn’t happen without data to back it up.
“That’s why our focus has been on creating and delivering the evidence that supports long-term change.”
A snapshot of safety
With an average rating of 7.1 out of 10, traffic controllers generally reported feeling safer in 2024 compared to 2023. However, the survey revealed a consistent national trend, with a range of significant concerns emerging.
These include a culture of disrespect, with verbal abuse from road users remaining a persistent issue.
Fifty-four per cent of traffic controllers reported verbal abuse on a weekly basis, with nine per cent reporting physical assault in the past year, highlighting the need for public education campaigns that emphasise respect for workers.
Addressing driver behaviour was also a key issue which emerged from the results, with the frequency of drivers refusing to stop at traffic control sites proving alarming. Results showed 53 per cent of traffic controllers encountered drivers refusing to stop at least once a week.
Additionally, 49 per cent of respondents reported nearly being struck by a distracted driver, and 44 per cent had near misses due to speeding vehicles. This underscores the need for more stringent enforcement of traffic laws, increased public awareness campaigns, and improved safety protocols. While also highlighting the need for a multi-pronged approach and informed the creation of three advocacy goals.
Bereni says although current feedback indicates positive progress, there is more to be done.
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“The feedback we’ve received from traffic controllers themselves is encouraging – many are telling us that they feel safer in their workplace compared to last year,” he says. “But on the other hand, when we look at the broader road safety statistics for 2024, the numbers are concerning.
“It shows that while we’ve made some headway, there is still significant work to be done to ensure the safety of both traffic controllers and road users. The journey is far from over.”
The findings provide critical data for TMAA in creating evidence-based policies aimed at creating safer working environments for traffic controllers and improving road safety for all.
The first is Unified National Training Standards which work towards harmonising training standards across states and territories to ensure consistent high-quality training.
The TMAA believes Unified National Training Standards will ensure that all traffic controllers are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate a complex and often challenging environment.
A better enforcement of road rules is the second goal, as survey responses highlighted the importance of consistent and strict enforcement of traffic laws.
The TMAA believes the stringent enforcement of speed limits and traffic restrictions around traffic management sites is necessary.
The survey results also highlighted the need for public education of drivers, the third advocacy goal outlined by the TMAA. Comprehensive public awareness campaigns are vital on educating the public about the dangers facing traffic controllers and to foster a culture of respect and understanding.
The TMAA has expressed its commitment to leveraging the insights from this survey in its advocacy program, and will continue to work with government bodies, industry partners, and the public to achieve advocacy goals.
“Meaningful change doesn’t happen without data to back it up,” Bereni says.
“That’s why our focus has been on creating and delivering the evidence that supports long-term change. This data will ultimately lead to improvements in the safety of traffic controllers on the ground, which is our top priority.”