Keeping road workers, drivers, and pedestrians safe in construction and maintenance areas starts with proper traffic control. Work zones can become dangerous when traffic is heavy, visibility is low, or drivers are unsure where to go. Flaggers play an important role by guiding vehicles, managing movement, and maintaining a safe flow of traffic through these areas.

Work-zone safety remains a serious concern. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), in 2022 there were 891 work-zone fatalities in the United States. Many incidents involve speeding vehicles, unclear signals, missing cones, or workers standing in unsafe positions, putting both workers and drivers at risk. This shows why proper flagger training is necessary for improved roadway safety.

Common Hazards in Traffic Control Zones

Work zones can become dangerous quickly when proper traffic control is not used. Some common hazards include:

• Drivers entering the wrong lane
• Rear-end collisions caused by unexpected stopping
• Workers struck by passing vehicles
• Poor sign placement that confuses drivers
• Miscommunication between flaggers
• Sudden changes in weather or visibility
• Equipment or vehicles blocking sight lines

Flaggers are the first line of defense against these hazards, which makes proper training important.

Training for Traffic Control (Flaggers)

Flaggers must understand the correct procedures before working in an active roadway. Training explains how to guide vehicles, stay visible, communicate clearly, and respond to changing roadway conditions.

• Duties and responsibilities in a temporary traffic control zone
• Proper use of signs, cones, barriers, paddles, and flags
• Clothing requirements for visibility
• Safe positioning while directing traffic
• Judging traffic speed and congestion
• Methods to stop, slow, or release traffic
• Communication with other flaggers and the public
• Proper placement of advance warning signs
• Tapering procedures and taper length formulas
• Tapering means setting cones in a gradual line to guide vehicles smoothly into another lane.

OSHA Training School offers Traffic Control (Flagger) training online, allowing students to complete it at their own pace. After completing the course, a certificate of completion becomes available.

Regulations for Traffic Control Work

Flaggers must follow strict rules for signs, signals, and barricades. Training aligns with the following standards:

• 29 CFR Subpart G – Signs, Signals, and Barricades (1926.201 Signaling)
• Federal Highway Administration’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), 2009 Edition with 2012 Revisions 1 and 2

These standards guide how signs should be placed, how devices must be used, and how flaggers must signal traffic to maintain safety in work zones.

How Training Makes Work Zones Safer

Work zones are high-risk areas where drivers may speed, get distracted, or misread lane directions. A trained flagger can reduce confusion by maintaining clear signals, placing signs correctly, and managing traffic. Training helps workers stay confident and prepared, especially in busy or high-speed locations.

OSHA Training School offers online flagger training designed to teach safe work practices, clear communication, and proper traffic control procedures.

Conclusion

Protecting workers and drivers in construction zones begins with proper traffic control. Understanding a flagger’s duties, following correct procedures, and using the right devices all contribute to safer work zones. Training equips workers to manage traffic confidently, respond quickly to hazards, and maintain safer travel around construction and maintenance areas.