The Traffic Management Association of Australia is urging mobile navigation apps Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze to enhance their work zone safety measures by improving its current audio warning system.

As part of this campaign, the peak body representing over 100 Traffic Management companies across Australia is launching a national petition to rally support among the traffic management and civil construction industries for stronger safety measures to protect road workers.

The request comes in response to alarming data from TMAA’s 2024 National Traffic Controller Safety Survey, which highlights the growing dangers faced by traffic controllers and road workers across Australia.

The survey found that 49% of traffic controllers reported near-misses with distracted drivers, while 44% cited speeding vehicles as a significant hazard. Additionally, workers are most vulnerable during site setup and pack-down phases, often occurring at the end of the day when fatigue and reduced visibility increase risk. Tragically, these are also the times when fatalities are most likely to occur.

To address this critical issue, TMAA is calling on Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze to update their work zone audio warning with a more action-oriented message: “Slow down for road workers.” This message, already in use in road safety campaigns across Australia, the UK, and the US, serves as a direct reminder to drivers, reinforcing the need to reduce speed and remain alert in work zones.

TMAA remains committed to collaborating with industry leaders, government agencies, and technology providers to improve road safety for both workers and motorists.