Flaggers play a vital role in ensuring projects like constructing a new bridge, and road repairs don't cripple daily commutes. If you are unfamiliar with these individuals, this should put things in perspective: a flagger is a construction company or government agency worker trained to control the flow of vehicular traffic around a particular construction site. They often use barricades, warning signs, and traffic cones to accomplish said task. Some of the primary duties of flaggers are explained in detail below.
1. Notify motorists about detours
Extensive construction projects like repairing a bridge require detours. A detour, in this case, is an alternative route used by motorists to go around a worksite with reduced or prohibited access. The type of detour a contractor chooses to apply depends on the structure or facility affected and the construction scope. Most companies use flaggers to close off a roadway stretch for a specified period and divert all traffic away from the site. If this option isn't ideal for a particular area, professionals may use a detour that will take effect during the weekend or at night. Either way, a flagger is indispensable when redirecting traffic.
2. Manage traffic flow on a construction project
According to statistics, in 2019, 5,333 workers succumbed to construction-related accidents in the United States. However, most of these accidents, especially those involving mobile plant machinery like cranes and other vehicles, including vans and trucks, are preventable. One of the best ways of preventing them involves using flaggers to manage onsite traffic. These experts facilitate onsite traffic management using hand signage and special signs. They use the same to communicate with their colleagues scattered throughout the construction site, ensuring no significant traffic issues undermine operations or workers' safety.
3. Place appropriate signs and cones around a specific worksite
Many diverse signages are used in construction sites, including warning signs, safety signs, fire safety signs, and probation signs. Each serves a particular purpose. For instance, a warning sign informs every party involved about potential danger or risk. On the other hand, safety signs help workers avoid harmful situations by reminding them what is expected, such as wearing PPE (personal protective equipment).
Get Certified
Becoming a flagger is an excellent idea. Moreover, since this career is in a fast-growing industry, flaggers are assured of stable employment and pay. But, before you can become a flagger, you must undergo flagger certification training. The courses involved are vital because they help you understand control references, signaling procedures, and standard practices for different situations. Enroll in a reputable institution and kickstart your journey towards a successful career as a flagger.
