PEOPLE are being warned that abuse of highways crews and actions that put them in danger “will not be tolerated”.
Staffordshire County Council said crews had seen a rise in incidents, including signs being ignored and pavements being mounted by vehicles trying to squeeze past closures.
A recent incident also saw a roadworks employee fall after being clipped by a car before being threatened by the driver.
Since the beginning of the year, Staffordshire County Council highway contractor Amey has recorded 76 incidents of vehicles flouting restrictions and abuse of staff.
Workers have also begun wearing bodycams while crew vehicles are also being fitted with dashcams.
Cllr Peter Mason, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for strategic highways, said:
“While we understand roadworks can be frustrating for motorists there is no excuse for abuse or threatening behaviour.
“We have had incidents of abuse which not only threatened the safety of staff, but also caused unnecessary delays to schemes.
“This will not be tolerated and we want to make it clear that incidents will be reported to the police, and we will support the police, Amey and all individuals affected to ensure action is taken against offenders.
“No-one deserves to be abused at work. The safety of our road crews always comes first.”
