What are the requirements for becoming a traffic controller?

The job of a Traffic Controller in Australia is a preferred choice among travellers and students. The primary responsibility of the Traffic Controller is to use STOP / SLOW signs to control traffic especially in areas where road repairs are underway.

ROLE OF A TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

• It is the prime duty of you as a traffic controller to properly direct vehicles as well as pedestrians in a particular area to ensure a smooth flow. There should be no accident or any other disruption of the traffic ensured by strictly adhering to safety norms.
• You should know how to use CCTV facilities to handle traffic flows not only on local roads but also on state highways.
• Involving long working hours irrespective of weather, traffic management is also quite dangerous as the traffic controller runs the risk of being hit by speeding vehicles.
• You cannot afford to become tired or allow fatigue to overrule your physical and mental condition.
• As a traffic controller, you should also be capable of handling rude drivers who violate traffic norms.
• In case of traffic obstructions, you should know how to divert traffic and properly advise motorists.
• Your age should be at least 18 years or above.
• In order to be a traffic controller, you should have completed the approved one-day traffic controller training course and hold the Traffic Controller’s Photo Licence.
• Your “level of learning, literacy, and numeracy skills” for completing the training will also be counted.
• A driver’s licence to ensure knowledge about braking dynamics and vehicle manoeuvrability is needed.
• You should have undergone the training under RTOs who can provide training as per course requirements.
• The accreditation is valid for 3 years and it has to be updated by informing the department about the same.
• A very important point to be noted: Dress. As a traffic controller you need to wear proper “high-visibility clothing” whenever you are on duty. This will make the road users be aware of your presence on the road.
• Safety footwear as per the Australian standards are to be worn while at work.
• As a traffic controller, you should be aware of STOP/SLOW bats and how and when to use the same.
• Of course there are a few precautions you must adhere to while at work.
• Ensure that the maximum speed is 60 km/h for the approaching traffic.
• Be aware of the escape path and the distance between you and the worksite should be at least 30 meters.
• Ensure that the road user is able to see you
• Never turn your back to the traffic
• Ensure you are giving proper and clear instructions to the travellers
• Make sure that the sign boards are in order and at appropriate places
• In case of reduced visibility, more care has to be exercised.

PRE-REQUISITES
 
POWERS VESTED WITH THE TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
You, as a traffic controller, will have no power at law but you can stop vehicles as required in places where construction or maintenance is going on.
 
PRECAUTIONS
 
On a concluding note, appreciate the enormous responsibility of a traffic controller. Be ready to answer any questions related to your earlier work experiences and training related to traffic management.

Wishing you good luck!