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Shoulder Work: What It Means & What To Do

Shoulder Work (W21-5) - diamond orange with black construction sign: Work is being done on the road shoulder
MUTCD CodeW21-5
CategoryConstruction Signs
ShapeDiamond
ColorOrange with black

What Does the Shoulder Work Mean?

Work is being done on the road shoulder. Stay in your lane.

About This Sign

This sign warns that the shoulder is being repaired or is unusable due to construction activity.

Where you will see it

You see this sign where the road shoulder is being repaired or cannot be used because of construction. Workers and equipment may be right beside your lane.

What to do

  • Stay in your lane.
  • Slow down and keep clear of the work beside the road.
  • Do not plan to use the shoulder.

A common mistake

Driving onto the shoulder to go around traffic or to stop. The shoulder is being repaired or is unusable, so treat it as off limits.

What to remember for the test

Remember the instruction attached to this sign: stay in your lane. The shoulder is a work area, not extra road space.

Other Construction Signs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Shoulder Work mean?

Work is being done on the road shoulder. Stay in your lane.

What shape and color is the Shoulder Work?

The Shoulder Work uses the Diamond shape and Orange with black coloring.

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