Institute for Transportation

Overview

This Basic Work Zone Safety and Flagger Train-the-Trainer Workshop equips individuals with the skills to train others in the safe management of work zones and flagging operations. This not only ensures compliance with safety regulations but also reduces the risk of crashes and improves the overall safety of workers and drivers on roadways. This workshop is designed to teach city public works and county secondary roads personnel how to train others in work zone safety and flagger duties. This workshop is essential for improving safety and ensuring that those responsible for managing traffic in work zones are well-trained and understand proper work zone safety and flagger principles. All relevant materials and a PowerPoint training presentation are included for participants. This event is free to attend, but registration is required.

Here’s an overview of what this workshop includes:

1. Work Zone Safety Basics

• Work Zone Setup: Understanding how to safely set up a work zone is critical. This includes ensuring proper signage, lane closures, and flagging operations.
• Hazard Identification: Identifying and mitigating potential hazards in a work zone, including worker safety, equipment, and traffic flow.
• Compliance with Regulations: Review of relevant safety standards and regulations, such as the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) focusing on Parts 1 and 6.

2. Role of Flaggers in Work Zones

• Flagger Responsibilities: The primary job of flaggers is to safely direct traffic around the work zone. This section covers the proper use of flags, hand signals, and other tools to control traffic flow.
• Flagging Techniques: Instruction on proper flagging techniques for both daytime and nighttime work zones.
• Safety Procedures for Flaggers: Emphasis on how flaggers can protect themselves while working, including how to position themselves safely and maintain clear visibility.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Importance of using appropriate PPE such as high-visibility vests, hard hats, and other safety gear.

3. Trainer Preparation

• Teaching Methods: How to effectively teach others about work zone safety and flagger duties. This includes learning how to present material clearly, and engage trainees.
• Effective Communication: Flaggers and trainers must communicate clearly, especially in high-stress environments. Trainers learn communication strategies that will help them convey safety practices to others.
• Evaluation and Feedback: How to assess trainee skills, provide constructive feedback, and evaluate their performance to ensure they are meeting safety standards.

 Benefits of the Workshop

• Internal Training:  Allows for the internal training of new hires and provides more frequent training intervals for local agency staff. (i.e. yearly if desired)
• Improved Safety: Trained flaggers and work zone safety personnel reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries, benefiting both workers and drivers.
• Enhanced Knowledge: Participants gain a deep understanding of work zone management, including regulations, best practices, and emergency response strategies.