CA Flagger Flagging Procedures 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When using a STOP/SLOW paddle, which face is shown to traffic that is being held back during one-lane operations?
- The SLOW face, to keep drivers calm
- The STOP face, facing toward approaching traffic (Correct answer)
- Either face, depending on flagger preference
- The SLOW face until cars are close, then STOP
Correct answer: The STOP face, facing toward approaching traffic
The STOP face of the paddle must be displayed toward approaching traffic that is being held, not the SLOW face, to give a clear and unambiguous signal.
Question 2: Which color is required for the SLOW side of a standard STOP/SLOW paddle?
- Yellow with black letters (Correct answer)
- Orange with white letters
- Green with white letters
- White with black letters
Correct answer: Yellow with black letters
The SLOW side of a standard paddle must be fluorescent yellow-green or orange with black letters, providing high contrast and visibility.
Question 3: A flagger needs to take a short break. What must happen before leaving the flagging station?
- Place a traffic cone in the lane as a substitute
- Ensure a qualified replacement flagger takes over (Correct answer)
- Notify drivers by waving the flag rapidly
- Set up a temporary stop sign and step away
Correct answer: Ensure a qualified replacement flagger takes over
A flagging station must always be staffed by a qualified flagger; a replacement must be in position before the current flagger can leave.
Question 4: What is the primary purpose of advance warning signs placed before a flagger station?
- To replace the need for flaggers in low-traffic areas
- To alert drivers to reduce speed and expect traffic control ahead (Correct answer)
- To mark the start of the work zone boundary
- To satisfy legal liability requirements only
Correct answer: To alert drivers to reduce speed and expect traffic control ahead
Advance warning signs alert approaching drivers to slow down and prepare for a flagger ahead, giving them time to react safely.
Question 5: Under which weather condition should flagging operations be SUSPENDED until conditions improve?
- Light drizzle with good visibility
- Dense fog reducing visibility below 500 feet (Correct answer)
- Temperatures below 50°F
- Wind speeds above 10 mph
Correct answer: Dense fog reducing visibility below 500 feet
Dense fog that reduces visibility below safe thresholds can make flagging ineffective and dangerous, warranting suspension of operations.
Question 6: A flagger is stationed on a curve. Where should the flagger be positioned to maximize driver response time?
- At the apex of the curve for maximum visibility
- Well in advance of the curve so drivers can see the flagger before entering it (Correct answer)
- Just past the curve exit
- At the beginning of the work zone, regardless of the curve
Correct answer: Well in advance of the curve so drivers can see the flagger before entering it
On curves, the flagger must be positioned far enough in advance that drivers can see them and react before entering the curve where sight distance is limited.
Question 7: What is 'one-lane, two-way traffic control' typically used for?
- High-speed freeway lane closures
- Short work zones where one lane is temporarily blocked (Correct answer)
- Long-term road construction requiring detour routes
- Areas with dedicated flagger booths on each side
Correct answer: Short work zones where one lane is temporarily blocked
One-lane, two-way traffic control is the standard method for managing alternating traffic flow through a short section where one lane is blocked.
CA Flagger Flagging Procedures 3
When using a STOP/SLOW paddle, which face is shown to traffic that is being held back during one-lane operations?