Volunteers for work zone inspection training break MoDOT record

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KC Scout’s Work Zone Coordinator Doneisha Wigfall recently hosted training sessions focused on work zone inspections. While trainings have always been mandatory for construction inspectors and safety crews, this training allows for outside points of view from MoDOT volunteers. The volunteers work together to review and ensure work zones are set up correctly and safe for everyone.

“Safety is MoDOT’s top priority. We offer these trainings to ensure everyone is as safe as possible while work is occurring to improve our roadways,” explains Wigfall.

The inspections involve a group of volunteers either driving through a work zone or livestreaming it via Microsoft Teams. The participants are able to encounter the work zone firsthand and correct any issues they encounter.

“These inspections provide learning experiences for all parties involved. Volunteers are able to note issues in work zones whether it’s during the group inspection or even just during their daily commutes in the future. After completing the training, they’ll have the skills to know what to look for within work zones. This helps tremendously in keeping both our crews and motorists safe,” says Wigfall.

Wigfall has been hosting these inspections for several years. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, these inspections were paused for some time. This makes it all the more important that MoDOT continues to strive to educate and refresh all employees on work zone safety. In fact, according to Wigfall, this year the training had a record breaking 130 volunteers sign up.

“I think the large number of volunteers came about due to the support of Senior Management,” explains Wigfall. “I’ve been attending lots of meetings where safety has been the only focus point. With this amount of emphasis on safety, I think it really makes everyone want to be a part of a team where they can help everyone make it home safely.”

Anyone at MoDOT is encouraged to join this team and Wigfall stresses that absolutely no experience is required. She looks forward to working with all who are interested. If that’s you, please contact Doneisha Wigfall by emailing doneisha.wigfall@modot.mo.gov.

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