A traffic controller is not someone who is just on the job to perform duties. A typical traffic controller is supposed to be aptly qualified and skilled to carry out his tasks. Traffic controllers are the ones who direct traffic and vehicle flow and on the side are also responsible for ensuring the safety of the vehicles, drives as well as pedestrians on the roads and streets.
Typically, traffic controllers have a list of duties that must be performed; otherwise, they are not considered the right fit. People who think that the traffic controlling job is not demanding are indeed misguided. You won’t get this job without proper qualifications that can be attained via traffic control training either online or in class. The traffic controller job requires training because it is a very responsible job, physically demanding, and that requires a unique skill set.
For this, we must know some of the duties and tasks of a typical traffic controller.
Tasks & Duties
Traffic controllers are firstly supposed to coordinate, set up, manage, and even remove traffic control signs and symbols. They are supposed to direct vehicles and pedestrians away from all the places that are temporarily closed down due to construction, accidents, or other events. They are the ones responsible for pedestrians’ safety, and without their presence, the chances of vehicles meeting accidents can go up significantly. Traffic controllers also explain and communicate controlling strategies to other members of the team. They must also be proficient in managing everything in dire emergency situations so that others do not have to suffer the consequences. Traffic Controllers usually stand in extreme weather conditions constantly for hours and hours. Therefore, they should have the right amount of physical as well as mental strengths and capabilities to weather out any challenges that may come their way directly or indirectly.
Skills Required
Apart from being mentally capable and educationally firm, traffic controllers must be physically strong. This is because the job requires constant picking and dropping of heavy materials like cones, barrels, and other traffic signs. Traffic controllers must be proficient in English and other languages to communicate their messages of warnings and safety precautions to the common citizens. For a traffic controller, traffic management skill is essential. Therefore, a traffic controller must know how to maintain a certain level of traffic flow and what measures are to be taken in case the flow of traffic suddenly increases. Since they are the ones responsible for the safety of the common people, traffic controllers must have the proper qualifications that are needed for the job. Since the job is very tough, the individuals on duty must be self-motivated and also must be mentally ready to face any sorts of challenges. Lastly, traffic controllers must have the proper knowledge of transport and logistics and must be fully aware of all the possible traffic rules and regulations since that is the basic requirement for the job of a traffic controller. In case someone lacks any of the described skills, chances are that he/she might not end up being a traffic controller.