How do environmental factors impact work zone safety?

Environmental factors significantly impact work zone safety, with poor weather conditions being particularly influential. When visibility is diminished, such as during rain, fog, or snow, drivers have a harder time seeing road signs, cones, and the construction zone itself, leading to increased likelihood of accidents. Additionally, adverse weather conditions can affect road traction, making it more difficult for vehicles to stop suddenly or maintain control. This increased risk necessitates heightened caution and more robust safety measures in work zones during poor weather.

The other options do not accurately reflect the challenges associated with environmental factors. For instance, while it might be true that vehicles can have mechanical issues in any weather, good weather does not inherently reduce the likelihood of breakdowns compared to poor conditions. Furthermore, the idea that construction workers are more productive in adverse conditions contradicts general findings that productivity often decreases when facing challenging weather. Lastly, signs and cones are less effective in rainy conditions, as precipitation can obscure visibility and reduce the overall effectiveness of traffic control devices.