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Welcome to National Grid’s Tips of the Trade for first responders. These tips are intended to help you respond safely and effectively to incidents involving natural gas and electricity. Please review them with your team.
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| Work zone safety: a proactive approach for law enforcement |
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| Ensuring the safety of workers, motorists and law enforcement officers is paramount when National Grid conducts utility infrastructure upgrades along roadways. These projects often involve lane and shoulder closures, creating work zones that present unique challenges and hazards. Maintain a proactive mindset to reduce risks, prevent incidents and keep everyone safe. |
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| Situational awareness |
| Upon arriving at a work zone, conduct a comprehensive site assessment. Identify potential hazards, such as heavy machinery and traffic patterns, and note the locations of workers and pedestrians. Engage with the National Grid crew to review the current job brief and ensure everyone on site is aware of potential hazards. Maintain heightened situational awareness at all times, as work zones are dynamic environments where conditions can change rapidly. Hazard awareness not only ensures your safety but also contributes to the safety of workers and the traveling public. |
| Traffic control |
| Within the work zone, the designated traffic control supervisor has the primary authority for implementing the approved traffic control plan. Coordinate closely with the traffic control supervisor to understand and support the proper placement of signs, cones and barricades. While you have the authority to enforce traffic laws and maintain safety, defer to the traffic control supervisor's expertise and direction regarding specific traffic control measures. |
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| Enforcement |
| Drivers in Massachusetts face increased fines and other penalties for speeding in a work zone. Massachusetts also has “Move Over” laws that include fines for drivers who fail to move into an open lane when stopped vehicles with flashing lights, such as utility vehicles, are at work. Implement appropriate enforcement strategies and coordinate with construction crews for lane closures or rolling roadblocks. |
| Nighttime operations |
| Work zones present unique challenges during nighttime hours, with reduced visibility being a significant concern. Ensure that proper lighting and visibility measures are in place, such as reflective gear, flashing lights and illuminated traffic control devices. Enhancing your personal visibility and maintaining awareness of your surroundings are crucial to your safety. |
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| Emergency response and incident management |
| In the event of an incident within a work zone, follow established protocols for responding to emergencies, ensuring safe access for emergency vehicles and maintaining communication with construction crews and traffic engineers. Incidents involving motor vehicle crashes or hazardous material spills require meticulous documentation and evidence preservation for subsequent investigations. |
| For more first responder safety information, visit firstresponder.ngridsafety.com. |
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| To report emergencies, call 911 and National Grid immediately. Always call 911 if you suspect a gas leak! |
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| In case of gas emergencies in Massachusetts, call 911 and 1‑800‑233‑5325. |
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| In case of electric emergencies in Massachusetts, call 911 and 1‑800‑465‑1212. |
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