Investigating implementation practices and initiatives for using blue light to enhance work zone safety in the United States

• Blue light practices for work zone safety lack standardization and policy guidance. • This study used a literature review and a survey to assess implementation. • The survey addressed six categories related to blue light implementation. • Key gaps in blue light implementation practices are identified. • Findings support state DOTs in refining blue light strategies for safer work zones. Using appropriate warning lights in roadway work zones is crucial for the safety of workers and road users. Several state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) in the United States have conducted projects exploring the use of blue lights for work zone safety. In 2019, Mississippi’s “Blue Light Law” was officially signed into effect, permitting the use of blue lights by police departments in road construction areas. However, a comprehensive understanding of the practices for implementing blue lights remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify and investigate blue light implementation practices and initiatives to enable state DOTs, particularly the Mississippi DOT, and other partners to implement blue lights more effectively. This study used a two-fold method. First, a systematic literature review was conducted to examine current warning/blue light practices in work zones, including light specification, installation platform, light location, and driver behavior. Based on these results, a survey was designed and distributed across the U.S in collaboration with the Mississippi DOT. The survey addressed six categories related to blue light implementation: demographics, organizational progress, respondent reaction, light deployment, light effectiveness, and light configuration. Based on the survey responses, 83 % of respondents believed blue lights help reduce vehicle speeds, 87 % reported increased alertness near flashing blue lights, and 68 % preferred placing blue lights at the start of work zones. This study identifies operational challenges such as limited organizational policies, a lack of regulations, and communication gaps between law enforcement and construction teams regarding the implementation of blue lights for work zone safety. The implications of these findings offer important insights for DOTs to standardize deployment practices, prioritize enforcement coordination, and enhance public safety through improved implementation strategies.