TOOLBOX TALK 48/60: FLAGGING TRAFFIC
TOOLBOX TALK 48/60
TOPIC: FLAGGING TRAFFIC
OBJECTIVE: TO ENSURE SAFETY OF CREWS AND TRAFFIC WHILST FLAGGING
Flagging is done at work sites either to stop traffic intermittently or to maintain continuous traffic flow past the work site at a reduced speed. Its purpose is to protect both the motorist and the team doing the work. You need to remind your team that whenever they have the responsibility of flagging traffic, they must be vigilant and must make themselves visible to approaching traffic and for enough distance to allow for enough time for the oncoming vehicles to respond and slow down.
They must also leave themselves time to get out of the way if the driver doesn’t respond to their signals.
They should always face traffic.
The person doing the flagging must be courteous, patient, and have a good sense of responsibility.
The following methods must be used when signalling traffic:
- TO STOP TRAFFIC:
- Face the traffic and extend the flat (or paddle) horizontally across the traffic lane in a stationary position. For greater emphasis, the free arm may be raised with the palm facing the traffic.
- TO DIRECT TRAFFIC TO MOVE:
- The flag person should stand parallel to the traffic movement with the flag (paddle) lowered to the leg and motion with the free arm in the direction the traffic should flow. The flag (paddle) should not be used to signal traffic to proceed.
- TO ALERT OR SLOW TRAFFIC:
- The flag person should face the traffic and slowly wave the flag (paddle) in a sweeping motion from the shoulder straight down to the ground. Do not raise the flag above shoulder height.
- Be sure the correct side of the paddle is always facing towards the traffic so as to not give the wrong message.
- If for some reason you must leave your post, call for a replacement. Don’t leave the job unguarded.
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