Which of these is one of the abilities a flagger is expected to have?
- Recognizing dangerous traffic situations and warning workers
- Judging the speed of any vehicle to within 5 mph by sight alone
- Directing traffic at signalized intersections like a police officer
- Operating heavy equipment whenever traffic is light enough
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A. Recognizing dangerous traffic situations and warning workers
A flagger must be able to spot a dangerous situation and warn the crew in time to avoid injury. Speed estimation to a set accuracy and police-style intersection control are not listed flagger abilities.
Reference: MUTCD Part 6, flagger qualifications (2009 Edition Section 6E.01)
A flagger must be able to move quickly. What is the main reason?
- To walk the full work zone every hour
- To reset cones that traffic knocks over
- To get out of the way of an errant vehicle
- To reach drivers who stop too far back
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C. To get out of the way of an errant vehicle
The ability to move and maneuver quickly is required so the flagger can avoid danger from an errant vehicle. Resetting cones is useful work, but it is not the reason the ability is required.
Reference: MUTCD Part 6, flagger qualifications (2009 Edition Section 6E.01)
Which statement best describes how a flagger should give instructions to road users?
- Loudly, quickly and repeatedly
- Clearly, firmly and courteously
- Only by voice, never by signal
- Only when a driver asks first
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B. Clearly, firmly and courteously
Flaggers must be able to receive and communicate specific instructions clearly, firmly and courteously. Shouting or repeating signals rapidly tends to confuse or anger drivers rather than guide them.
Reference: MUTCD Part 6, flagger qualifications (2009 Edition Section 6E.01)