Road Work - Traffic Control Person

A traffic control person may also be known as a flag person or signaller. The main role is to:

• Stop, slow, and safely direct traffic through work or construction sites.
• Protect workers in the construction zone by regulating traffic flow.
• Give traffic control directions and signals clearly and precisely so that motorists understand their meaning.
• Keep the flow of traffic moving with as few delays as possible.

Only use traffic control persons when other methods of traffic control are not adequate. Always use barriers, barricades, lane control devices, traffic signal lights, sign trucks, and other methods as appropriate. 

Yes. Most Canadian jurisdictions require that a person who is controlling traffic have training, complete a certificate, or be considered competent.  The Canadian Federal jurisdiction’s occupational health and safety laws do not directly address training requirements for a traffic control person.

Each jurisdiction has specific requirements. For example, Ontario specifies that each traffic control person receives adequate oral and written instruction from the employer in a language the worker understands before performing traffic control duties. Northwest Territories requires that the employer ensure the designated signaler is trained to carry out their duties to ensure the signaler’s safety and the safety of other workers.

This fact sheet does not cover all of the education or training required for a traffic control person. Always confirm any requirements with your local jurisdiction.

Before starting each job, know:

• The overall traffic protection plan and layout of the traffic control zone.
• Your duties, role and responsibilities.
• What training is required and verify that you have the right training for this job.
• What activities will be done on the work or construction site (e.g., paving, grading, etc.).
• What equipment is present and how the equipment will be operated (e.g., scrapers, trucks, graders, etc.).
• What personal protective equipment is required.
• Practices and procedures for that job (how to stop and slow traffic), where to stand, etc. The traffic control zone will vary depending on the speed allowed on the roadway, volume of traffic, weather conditions, if there is a curve or hill, etc.
• What communication methods will be used, including how to use radios, hand signals, etc.
• What to do in an emergency, including your personal escape route in case a vehicle comes too close.
• Be sure you have adequate eyesight and hearing ability to do this job safely.
• How communication will be handled if there is a need for a third (or more) traffic control person, such as when the work zone is around curves or hills where sight lines to the other end of the work zone are obstructed.
• That the “stop-slow” sign you will use is in good repair (e.g., undamaged, clean).
• That measures are in place and at appropriate distances to give motorists enough warning to slow down.
• How to report incidents.
• That a traffic control person should never leave their position unattended (e.g., know what the arrangements are for meals and breaks).

When controlling traffic, as a traffic control person you should:

• Always stay alert. The situation can change very quickly.
• Be visible. Stand where you can see traffic, and be seen by traffic.
• Think ahead and plan your escape route. Know where you will move to if a motorist drives too close.
• Stand “alone.” Do not stand in a group of people, near a vehicle, or other distractions. Drivers must be able to see you clearly.
• Stand the correct distance from the work area. This position will vary with the visibility, speed, and volume of traffic. In general, this spot is halfway between the beginning of the taper or detour zone, and the traffic control warning sign. Do not stand too close to the taper or in the travel lane.
• Keep visual contact with the other traffic control person if you are not using radios.
• Work as a team with other traffic control persons. Always check with the other traffic control person to see if it is safe to allow traffic to move. When two or more traffic control persons are required to work as a team at the worksite, responsibility for the coordination of changes in traffic flow should be assigned to one person.
• Hold the stop/slow sign away from the body, and in the driver’s line of sight.
• Raise your free hand with the palm facing the driver to stop traffic.
• Allow time for the vehicle to stop safely by turning the sign when the vehicle is at an appropriate distance away for the speed it is travelling.
• Move to a safe position after stopping the first vehicle where the incoming next vehicle can see you.
• Be aware of everything going on around you, behind you, in the lane beside you, etc.
• When you are ready to release traffic, return to your position outside the travel lane, confirm with the other traffic control person it is safe to let traffic move, turn the sign to “slow,” and with your free arm, signal to drivers to proceed.
• To slow traffic, extend the slow sign away from your body (but do not wave it), and use your free hand to indicate slow down by moving your hand and forearm in an up and down motion with your palm down.
• Be alert for emergency vehicles (police, fire, ambulance). These vehicles have priority through the traffic control zone.
• Guide cyclists and pedestrians safely through the zone.
• Cover or remove traffic control warning signs when there are no traffic control persons present.
• Important reminders:  
• Do not assume a vehicle will stop until it has actually come to a full and complete stop.
• Do not look away from oncoming traffic.
• Do not do any other activity, other than control traffic.
• Do not use other devices (other than your communication radio) which may distract you or impair your sight, hearing or take attention from the job. These devices include personal music players, cell phones, etc. Only use a cell phone for on-site emergency communication, if permitted.
• Do not participate in arguments with motorists. Be polite, do not retaliate, stay back, and stay safe. If necessary, record the incident and report it to your supervisor.
• Do not try to enforce situations that appear to be breaking highway traffic acts (e.g., speeding, dangerous driving, driving while impaired, etc.). Make a note of the licence plate on the vehicle, and discuss the situation with your supervisor. Call the police or emergency services for assistance.
• Do not use radio communication when blasting activities are occurring.

Wear personal protective equipment that is CSA approved, including:

• A vest or other clothing that is the appropriate class of high visibility material
• A hard hat
• Safety footwear
• Eye protection
• Hearing protection

Be sure that clothing, or eye and hearing protection do not interfere with your ability to see and hear while working. You must wear all personal protective equipment required by your employer. If you have concerns with the safety of the equipment, speak to your supervisor and explain your concerns. 

Other tips include:

• Use a sign that is designed specifically to direct traffic (stop/slow). Be sure the sign is in good repair, and meets the height and size requirements for your jurisdiction.
• Carry spare batteries for the communication radio.
• For poor light or night conditions, use a flashlight fitted with a red signalling wand, and carry spare batteries for the flashlight. Reflective material on your hard hat and clothing will also help you be more visible.
• For poor light or night conditions, where possible, stand under a street light, or install overhead lighting that will allow motorists to see the traffic control person more easily.
• Dress according to the weather, and be prepared for when the weather changes. Depending on the environmental conditions, clothing may include sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent, high visibility rain gear, and warm layered clothing (including gloves, winter boots, and hard hat liners).
• Where appropriate, carry protection from wildlife, including bear bangers or bear mace.
• Use a portable horn or whistle to alert other workers when necessary.
• Carry a book for note taking.