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Manufacturers offer glare shields to help focus the light. Balloon lights, which provide glare-free lighting, are also an option. They are even being required by some state DOTs for certain jobs. These lights are flexible and highly portable, making them well suited for stationary lighting or mounting on equipment such as pavers. However, they do require a generator or other power source.

While balloon lights are becoming very popular, diesel-powered light towers are still the mainstay in the industry.

"They've been around for a long time and they're extremely versatile and mobile," says Warner. "Since they have their own engine, they're completely self contained. Plus, they can typically run for a long time unassisted. You can park them and they can run over a weekend to provide long-term light. If you select the right light, it won't add to the danger on a jobsite." 

Prepare for roadside safety
The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) have outlined guidelines for several aspects of safe roadway construction zones, as well as some of the methods used to achieve it. They include high-visibility apparel; worker training; activity area planning; speed control; positive separation from traffic; lighting; worker safety planning; and special devices (rumble strips, etc.).

The FHA's Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices is also a resource for defining the standards for installing and maintaining traffic control devices on streets and highways to create proper warning, transition, buffer and termination zones. "When a motorist is traveling at 60 mph, he or she only has a second or two to recognize and react to roadway construction work zones," says Paul Satti, technical director, Construction Safety Council. "It's important that the contractor use standardized signs, markings and symbols to send a clear, positive message to motorists to get and command the respect of road users."