Flagger Safety and Traffic Direction

Key Hazards

• Flaggers struck by approaching traffic or vehicles within the work zone
• Drivers failing to see, understand, or obey flagger directions
• Flaggers positioned without an escape route or adequate sight distance
• Conflicting signals between flaggers, equipment operators, and traffic
• Reduced visibility from darkness, weather, curves, hills, or glare
• Fatigue, distraction, or complacency during repetitive traffic control

2–3 Minute Talk Script

A flagger is often the first person a driver encounters at a work zone and may be the final control preventing traffic from entering an occupied work space. Only trained and authorized workers should perform flagging duties using the approved traffic-control plan.

The flagger station should provide adequate sight distance and enough time for approaching drivers to recognize the warning, understand the direction, and stop. The flagger should not stand in a location hidden by a curve, hill, equipment, sign, shadow, or glare.

Flaggers should stand in the approved position, remain visible, and maintain an escape route that does not lead into equipment, excavation, barriers, or another traffic lane. They should not sit, use a phone, or perform unrelated work while controlling traffic.

The approved STOP/SLOW paddle or other authorized device should be used with clear, deliberate motions. Improvised gestures can confuse drivers and conflict with the directions given by another flagger.

When two or more flaggers control alternating traffic, they should maintain reliable communication and confirm that the opposing lane is clear before releasing vehicles. A failed radio or unclear message should stop traffic until communication is restored.

High-visibility apparel and lighting should be suitable for the conditions. Night flagger stations should be illuminated without creating glare that prevents the flagger or driver from seeing the roadway.

Flaggers must also watch vehicles and equipment inside the work zone. They should stay out of backing paths and blind spots and should not move into a lane until approaching traffic is stopped and the operator knows their position.

Aggressive drivers, excessive queues, poor visibility, changing weather, or repeated violations may make the original setup ineffective. The flagger should report the condition and request changes rather than continue in an unsafe position.

Safety Reminders

• Use only trained and authorized flaggers.
• Choose a station with adequate sight distance and an escape route.
• Remain alert, visible, and focused only on traffic control.
• Use approved paddles and clear, consistent signals.
• Confirm the lane is clear before releasing traffic.
• Maintain reliable communication between flaggers.
• Stop and report conditions that make the setup ineffective.

Ask the Crew

• Can approaching drivers see and stop for this flagger station?
• Where is the flagger's escape route?
• How will multiple flaggers communicate and confirm a clear lane?
• Are lighting and high-visibility garments suitable for the conditions?
• What traffic behavior would require the setup to be changed?