What role does the flagger perform near work zones?

The role of a flagger near work zones is primarily to direct traffic and ensure safety. Flaggers are responsible for managing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians in and around construction areas. They use hand signals, flags, and sometimes lights to communicate with drivers, alerting them to slow down, stop, or navigate through detours safely. Additionally, flaggers play a crucial role in protecting both the workers in the zone and the public from potential accidents in a dynamically changing environment. By guiding traffic correctly, they help prevent collisions and facilitate smoother operations at the work site. The importance of this role cannot be overstated, as proper direction from a flagger significantly contributes to overall safety in and around work zones.