What safety aspect is essential during the straightedge procedure?

During the straightedge procedure, proper traffic management is essential for ensuring the safety of workers and the integrity of the work being performed. The straightedge is used to evaluate the smoothness and evenness of the newly paved asphalt surface, which often occurs in areas that may have ongoing pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

Effective traffic management involves implementing measures to control and direct traffic away from the work zone, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents. This can include the use of cones, signage, and possibly flaggers to guide vehicles and pedestrians safely around the work area. Ensuring that the surrounding traffic does not interfere with the procedure is crucial, as distractions or unexpected movements can lead to hazards for both the workers and the public.

Other choices, while important in their own contexts, do not specifically address the critical aspect of traffic safety related to the straightedge procedure. Wearing protective gear is fundamental for personal safety, using a second worker can enhance efficiency and support, and working in daylight improves visibility; however, without proper management of the surrounding traffic, these measures could still leave workers vulnerable to accidents.