Walter Workzone Speaks up About Flagging

This interview with Walter Workzone, the second in a series, discusses flagger responsibilities and safety. Walter identifies the main problem in flagging operations as the fact that many flaggers in inadequately qualified and paid for the difficult job they are doing. He suggests that if the job pays well, more qualified workers will want the job. Walter also makes the point that flaggers should only be used when all other traffic control methods are inadequate. Use of proper flagging equipment and high visibility clothing, hand signals and police officers in flagging operations is discussed. Rules for being a “defensive flagger” are also stated. Diagrams of hand signals are included.