Flagging in Temporary Traffic Control

Wear a white hard hat as a flagger to clearly identify the person in control on site. Ensure proper PPE and avoid nonwhite colors that blend with crew across jurisdictions.

Wear ANSI class 3 high-visibility vests in yellow or orange with reflectivity to be seen from distance. Ensure background contrast; avoid black, and only use white if it won't blend.

Define the flagging station as a bubble workspace between the construction site and traffic, a conceptual flagging zone where operators hold paddles, move flags, and coordinate with vehicle operators.

Set up your flagging station to control traffic, protect workers, and give advanced warning with a visible buffered area, escape route, signage, shade, water, and a go bag.

Maintain at least ten foot candles within a 20-foot radius of the flagging station, using downward white lighting to let operators see you from 1000 feet while avoiding glare.

Stand while flagging to stay alert and visible so operators can see you; rotate flagging duties to prevent boredom, and replace yourself for breaks unless ADA accommodations or light-duty applies.

Develop an escape route plan for flaggers in the TTC plan, maintaining buffer zone and avoiding crush zones between moving and stationary objects. Use 45-degree escape angle away from traffic.

Ensure flagging signs meet size standards: at least 18 inches across with six-inch letters; for speeds over 35 mph use a 24-by-24 inch panel raised to six to seven feet.

Learn three essential hand signals for flagging traffic—stop, slow, and proceed—using a paddle and a free hand from head to waist, with clear shoulder-to-waist positioning, flag use in emergencies.

Learn to manage one lane two way traffic with two flaggers, designate a primary control center and a secondary station, and ensure clear radio communication and hand signals.

Utilize official cars for internal staff and construction deliveries in the flagging zone, and deploy a pace car with official orange signage to pace one-lane two-way traffic through the TTC.

Deliver instructions to vehicle operators in safety programs, using send, receive, and repeat process with commands wait till I come back, pull over 15 ft, and keep below 15 mph.

This course covers flagging in temporary traffic control and highlights following written plans, assembling a go bag with flagging gear, proper illumination, and staying safe by adhering to your plan.