Indiana Adds Green Safety Lights to Road Work Zones
The state has equipped highway workers with wearable green lights to improve visibility during night operations.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Emergency Response
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The Indiana Department of Transportation has distributed approximately 1,100 wearable safety light units to highway technicians and Hoosier Helpers. These devices emit flashing green patterns designed to enhance worker safety during overnight shifts.
Why it matters
Low-visibility conditions during the late fall and winter seasons pose significant risks to roadside crews. The initiative aims to provide extra protection for workers who operate near traffic in hazardous weather such as fog, rain, and snow.
The rollout of these devices resulted in an 89% increase in worker visibility during low-light conditions. Officials distributed 1,100 light units to staff for use alongside high-visibility vests.
The players
Indiana Department of Transportation
The state agency responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of Indiana's highway system.
Hoosier Helpers
A specialized workforce program managed by the state that assists stranded motorists and provides traffic support.
The details
Highway technicians wear these compact light devices in addition to their standard high-visibility vests to remain visible from all directions. The equipment is specifically optimized for low-light environments, ensuring that workers are easily spotted by passing motorists during overnight maintenance tasks.
Timeline
INDOT launched the Project Greenlight pilot program in the fall of 2025.
The department issued a public reminder regarding work zone safety on October 30, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
This program aligns with the Indiana Work Zone Safety Statute by introducing new technology to address seasonal risks. It marks a departure from traditional passive safety measures by adopting active, wearable lighting solutions.
Drivers are reminded to exercise caution and increase their following distance when encountering flashing green lights in road work zones. Obeying posted speed limits ensures the safety of workers who are now more visible in poor weather conditions.
The takeaway
Using wearable lighting helps workers stand out against the backdrop of dark, rainy, or snowy roads. Motorists should prioritize alertness in work zones, especially as daylight hours continue to shrink during the winter months.
Further reading
Learn more about state safety initiatives in the Indiana Emergency Response section.
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Do you prioritize slowing down when encountering road work crews in your area?
