What is the minimum width of a STOP/SLOW paddle?
- 12 inches
- 24 inches
- 30 inches
- 18 inches
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D. 18 inches
The paddle must be at least 18 inches wide so drivers can read it from a distance. 24 inches is a common larger size, and is also the minimum size of a signal flag, but it is not the minimum for a paddle.
Reference: MUTCD Part 6, flagger hand-signaling devices (2009 Edition Section 6E.03)
What is the minimum height of the letters on a STOP/SLOW paddle?
- 4 inches
- 6 inches
- 8 inches
- 10 inches
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B. 6 inches
Paddle letters must be at least 6 inches high. Smaller 4-inch letters would not be readable far enough back for a driver to react and stop.
Reference: MUTCD Part 6, flagger hand-signaling devices (2009 Edition Section 6E.03)
When should a flagger use a flag instead of a STOP/SLOW paddle?
- Only in emergency situations
- Whenever traffic is under 35 mph
- Whenever work is done at night
- Only on multi-lane highways
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A. Only in emergency situations
Flags give drivers less clear direction than a paddle, so their use is limited to emergencies when a paddle is not available. Low speed alone does not justify using a flag.
Reference: MUTCD Part 6, flagger hand-signaling devices (2009 Edition Section 6E.03)