What is Flagging in Construction?

28 Apr 2020 Traffic Control

Understanding what flagging is in construction will provide you with a better idea of how construction sites on roadways operate. At Valley Traffic Systems, they understand the important role flaggers play in creating a safe working environment. That is why they offer training services for flaggers.

What do Flaggers do?

Flaggers are the people on construction sites who control the traffic along roadways and highways to help keep traffic flowing through the construction zone. In most cases, flaggers tend to work in teams with each person being in charge of controlling the flow of traffic in one direction. Flaggers are also responsible for putting out traffic cones and signs, as well as communicating with motorists through hand signals.

Flagger Duties and Responsibilities

While a flagger’s duties and responsibilities will vary, depending on their employer, there are several core tasks common to all flaggers, including:

Direct Vehicles

By using hand signals and large direction signs to tell drivers when to stop or proceed slowly, flaggers can easily direct traffic safely through a construction site. Flaggers may also be able to answer any questions motorists have about detours caused by the construction.

Communicate with Other Flaggers & Construction Personnel

Flaggers often use radios to communicate with other flaggers positioned at different spots along the construction site in order to safely coordinate two-way traffic on a single-lane road. Flaggers may also need to alert members of the construction crew to any traffic concerns that might impact their work or safety.

Place Traffic Cones & Construction Signs

Before construction can begin each day, flaggers will set up traffic cones and signs at and around the road construction site, including detour signs, road work ahead signs, end of road work signs, and road closure signs. At the end of the workday, flaggers will be responsible for retrieving all of the cones and signs as directed.

Record Information

Flaggers are responsible for observing and recording any details about drivers who fail to obey speed limits, construction signs, or other directions provided by the flaggers. This information is often submitted to the site supervisor or, in some cases, law enforcement officers.

If you would like to learn more about what flagging is in construction, or if you are interested in taking their traffic control person training course to become a flagger, contact Valley Traffic Systems at the location nearest you or by filling out a quote form on their website.