Flaggers are Crucial to Worksite Safety

Flagging traffic is one of the most important jobs in the industry. Traffic accidents on a construction site negatively impact all parties, be it the motorist, the company, a pedestrian, a co-worker, or the flagger themselves. Because of this, flaggers have a tremendous amount of responsibility. They must be alert and anticipate potential problems in order to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are some tips for insuring optimal safety for everyone when flagging traffic:

• Have a good overall view of the work operation so that you can anticipate any changes and quickly respond when necessary.
• Be sure you are wearing the appropriate high-visibility wear for the job.  It is extremely important that motorists can spot you quickly, and from a distance, so that they have adequate time react to the changes in traffic patterns and avoid injuries to themselves, you, other workers, pedestrians, and/or motorists.
• Even if you are wearing the appropriate hi-viz wear, never turn your back on traffic.  Distracted driving is an unfortunate but all-too-common occurrence. Many drivers are often not looking at the road or for you, so you must be on the look out for them.
• With the exception of emergency situations, only the designated flag persons should be directing traffic. The flag persons should be alert to traffic conditions as well as construction operations.
• Be sure you have the correct paddles and/or flags meeting State requirements for size.
• Be firm but polite. While it is important to make sure an accident does not happen, keep in mind that it is the public's highway. As a flagger, you are highly visible and represent both your company and the construction industry at large so be as courteous as possible while keeping all parties safe.