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Flagging Devices and Methods

Approved Flagging Devices

Sign Paddles

  • The sign paddle shall be octagon-shaped, at least 24 inches wide. 
  • Lettering shall be 8-inch series "C" letters.
  • The SLOW face of the paddle shall be fluorescent orange prismatic lens sheeting.
  • The STOP face of the paddle shall be red encapsulated lens sheeting. 
  • The sign paddle must be on a staff at least 5 feet long.
  • When flashing white lights are used on the STOP/SLOW paddle, the standard side of the paddle may be reduced to 18 inches wide with 6-inch series "C" letters.

Flags

  • The use of an approved flag shall be limited to emergency situations, to supplement the STOP/SLOW paddle for greater emphasis, or by traffic spotters.
  • The flag shall be red, not less than 24-inches by 24-inches on a staff at least 36-inches long.
  • The flag should be weighted at the bottom with adequate weight to hang vertically.

Flaggng Methods

Where To Stand

  • Stand facing traffic either on the edge of the shoulder of the road or in a barricaded lane just outside of the traffic lane.
  • Stand 200-300 feet from the end of the work area so as to be able to guard personnel or equipment. 
    • Less spacing may be necessary for areas where conditions warrant.
  • Stand where you can see, and be seen by, approaching traffic. The distance should be at least 500 feet.
  • Flagging stations shall be preceded by proper advance warning signs. 
  • Signs shall be removed when the flagger is no longer at his/her station. 
  • At night, flagging stations shall be adequately illuminated.

How To Stop Traffic

  • Stand facing traffic, but keep out of the traffic lane.
  • With a paddle, hold the STOP sign paddle in a stationary position with the arm extended horizontally away from the body. The free arm shall be raised with the palm toward traffic.
  • With a flag, hold the staff in a horizontal position across the traffic lane. The free arm shall be raised with the palm of the hand toward approaching traffic.
  • If time permits, the flagger may inform the drivers of the reason for the delay. Be courteous and brief. Do not lean on or touch the vehicles.

How To Move Traffic

  • With a paddle, stand facing traffic. Hold the SLOW sign paddle in a stationary position with the arm extended horizontally away from the body.
  • With a flag, stand parallel to traffic movement. Lower the flag behind the flagger and motion traffic to proceed with the free hand.
  • Never use a paddle or flag to signal traffic to move ahead.

How To Alert and Slow Traffic (but not stop it)

  • Stand facing traffic.
  • With a paddle, hold the SLOW sign paddle in a stationary position with the arm extended horizontally away from the body. For added emphasis, the flagger may raise and lower the free hand with the palm down.
  • With a flag, stand parallel to traffic movement. Lower the flag in front of the flagger and slowly motion up and down with the free hand, palm down.

Remember to never wave a paddle or flag. Signals must be clear and distinct. Use hand signals with devices, and don't make drivers guess what they should do.