23 Jan Traffic Control

Traffic Control

Traffic control is necessary whenever construction activities affect vehicles, pedestrians, equipment, or normal roadway movement. Effective traffic control protects workers and the traveling public while allowing traffic to move safely and efficiently through or around the work zone.

Guide for Discussion

Planning and Set-Up

Traffic control should be planned before work begins and adjusted as conditions change.

• Pre-plan the traffic control operation based on the work being performed and site conditions.
• Establish signs, channelizing devices, barricades, and other traffic-control devices before exposing workers to traffic hazards.
• Clearly identify lane closures, changes in traffic patterns, detours, and restricted areas.
• Position signs and devices so motorists have adequate time to recognize and respond to changing conditions.
• Inspect the traffic-control setup regularly and correct displaced, damaged, or ineffective devices.
• Remove or cover signs and devices that are no longer applicable.
• Consider construction vehicles, equipment movement, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other affected traffic when planning the work zone.

Flagger Qualifications

Flaggers must be trained and qualified in accordance with applicable federal, state, local, and project requirements.

Before beginning flagging duties, flaggers should understand:

• The traffic-control plan and work-zone layout.
• Approved flagging signals and procedures.
• Proper positioning and visibility.
• Communication procedures between flaggers.
• Procedures for construction vehicles and equipment entering or leaving the work zone.
• Emergency procedures and escape routes.

Flagging Operations

Flaggers must remain alert and focused on traffic throughout the operation.

• Position yourself where approaching motorists can see you in sufficient time to respond.
• Use approved STOP/SLOW paddles or other authorized signaling devices.
• Maintain reliable communication with other flaggers using radios or approved visual signals.
• Never turn your back on approaching traffic.
• Do not stand in the path of an approaching vehicle.
• Identify and maintain an escape route in case a vehicle enters the work area.
• Avoid distractions, including unnecessary cell phone use.
• Never perform unrelated work while actively controlling traffic.
• Remain courteous but firm when communicating with motorists.
• Never argue with an aggressive or impatient driver. Maintain control of the work zone and follow established procedures.

High-Visibility Clothing and PPE

Flaggers must wear required high-visibility safety apparel appropriate for the roadway and working conditions.

• Wear high-visibility apparel meeting applicable project and regulatory requirements.
• Wear a hard hat and other required PPE.
• Wear suitable footwear appropriate for prolonged standing and roadway conditions.
• Ensure high-visibility apparel remains clean and visible.
• Use appropriate illumination and enhanced visibility measures when flagging at night or under limited-visibility conditions.

Communication and Coordination

When two or more flaggers are used, effective communication is essential.

• Establish communication methods before operations begin.
• Confirm that each flagger understands when traffic may be released.
• Coordinate traffic movement so opposing traffic is not released simultaneously into a single-lane section.
• Immediately communicate changing conditions, emergencies, or unauthorized vehicle movements.
• Maintain communication with supervisors and equipment operators as necessary.

Remember

The flagger has an important responsibility to protect both the traveling public and workers inside the construction zone. Stay visible, remain alert, follow the established traffic-control plan, communicate clearly, and always maintain a safe escape route.

Summary

Improve traffic control by properly planning work zones, using trained flaggers, maintaining clear communication, wearing high-visibility PPE, and staying alert to approaching vehicles.