For Safety’s Sake, Train Flaggers

The death of a county worker last February, struck by a vehicle while flagging, is a sad reminder of the job’s hazards. Supervisors and lead workers need to recognize that any job may require a flagger. They should identify trained flaggers on each crew, know how to call one in from another job if needed, or hire a flagging contractor. Their trucks should be stocked with the proper advance warning signs, STOP/SLOW paddles, cones or barricades, and high bisibility clothing. They also need some type of written guidance or plan. Every worker who might possibly be assigned to do flagging should receive proper training. They will learn about placing signs and cones, where to position themselves, and how to give clear messages to road users. Flaggers can learn proper procedures from videos, from other employees who have been trained, and in workshops. On the job, flaggers need frequent breaks to help them stay alert and attentive to the traffic. Supervisors should rotate flaggers among different positions and out for breaks, and also spot chck for safety compliance.