trafficdirecting

Traffic directing is the practice of guiding and controlling the movement of vehicles and pedestrians to protect people and maintain safe, efficient traffic flow in situations such as road work, incidents, or large events. It is performed by trained personnel—flaggers, traffic controllers, or police officers—who implement a traffic management plan, coordinate with responders, and enforce temporary rules.

Signaling relies on standardized gestures and equipment: hand signals, flags or stop/slow paddles, lighted batons or torches, and high-visibility clothing. Portable signs, cones, barriers, and temporary signals delineate lanes and work zones, while radios and other devices coordinate with drivers and responders.

Common settings include construction zones, accident scenes, parades, and other public events. Regulations and standards vary by jurisdiction but generally require training, certification, and adherence to a traffic management plan. In many places, only authorized personnel may perform traffic control duties, supervised by a qualified supervisor.

Safety considerations include shielding workers from moving traffic, maintaining sight lines, and promptly communicating changes. Night work requires additional lighting and reflective gear; poor weather or high speeds increase risk. Proper setup, situational awareness, and clear communication are essential to reducing hazards in traffic-directing operations.