New Jersey Assembly Bill A933

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires NJTA to implement certain roadside maintenance safety policies.

Impact

This bill's implementation would significantly affect the conduct of roadside maintenance operations overseen by the NJTA. Enhanced safety measures aimed at protecting employees during adverse weather conditions could lead to a reduction in workplace accidents and injuries. These regulations may also influence operational efficiency, as limitations on maintenance work during inclement weather could slow down regular maintenance schedules. The overall intent is to promote a safer work environment within the authority, which can result in improved employee morale and public safety on roads undergoing maintenance.

Summary

Assembly Bill A933 requires the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA) to implement specific safety policies concerning roadside maintenance performed by its employees. The bill mandates several safety protocols to ensure the safety of employees during such operations. Key provisions include prohibiting the use of power tools in inclement weather for non-emergency maintenance, taking necessary precautions for emergency maintenance during bad weather, limiting the usage of gas-powered landscaping equipment to daylight hours, and deploying portable roadside light towers during non-daylight work.

Contention

There may be potential points of contention regarding this bill, particularly surrounding the feasibility of the proposed safety measures. Stakeholders could raise concerns about the operational impacts of restricting non-emergency maintenance work during adverse weather, especially in areas where timely maintenance is critical for safety and road usability. The balance between ensuring employee safety and maintaining the efficiency of road maintenance operations could become a focal point of debate among legislators and public interest groups involved in highway safety and infrastructure management.