Effective work zone lighting is critical for ensuring worker safety, maintaining visibility, and promoting operational efficiency in large transportation construction projects. The use of traditional lighting tower systems has been the standard approach for decades, yet traditional lighting systems have limitations that directly affect the safety and productivity of construction operations. Among the challenges are limited lighting coverage in work zones, the inability to adapt quickly to dynamic work environments, and operational inefficiencies.

Traditional work zone lighting systems rely heavily on fixed-position light towers that use diesel-powered generators. Fixed towers have limitations that hinder their ability to provide sufficient lighting to adequately cover large work zones or complex work environments. This includes long stretches of highway or multilevel construction sites where work zones require lighting over a vast area but where it may not be feasible to reposition lighting towers. As a result, some areas have insufficient or uneven illumination or are entirely dark, potentially impairing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the light cast by traditional towers may unevenly distribute light and produce bright spots directly underneath the towers and darker areas farther away. This contrast creates glare, which can temporarily blind workers and may obscure hazards such as rebar, tools, and uneven ground. Traditional work zone lighting requires considerable energy and costs. Diesel generators emit pollutants and generate noise that may lead to poor air quality and worker fatigue. Additionally, light spillovers can disturb nearby communities and wildlife while increasing the risk of nighttime vehicle collisions due to light pollution. As nighttime construction becomes more common to reduce traffic disruption, the safety hazards associated with inadequate lighting are further amplified.

The limitations of traditional lighting systems require exploring innovative solutions. Emerging technologies, such as uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), that can be tethered for power connection and equipped with powerful lighting systems offer promising alternatives but have not been sufficiently vetted for this use. The ability to adjust the position of the UAS in real time may help eliminate glare and shadows, providing more even illumination that enhances worker safety. UAS lighting systems may offer flexibility, mobility, and adaptability. 

The objective of this research is to develop a guide that includes an evaluation of the use of UAS lighting systems for work zones in transportation construction projects of various sizes; an assessment of improvements in worker safety, visibility, mobility, and other impacts compared to traditional fixed lighting systems; and a summary of successful practices for safe and effective UAS deployment.