Assessment of Nighttime Flagger-Illumination Practices

Abstract

Although flaggers are often an integral component of temporary traffic control measures during roadway construction and maintenance, they may be exposed to significant safety hazards associated with the inadequate illumination of flagging operations. To eliminate these hazards, guidelines are needed that provide specific direction and recommendations for optimal illumination of flaggers. This paper presents the findings of a research study that included the evaluation of selected light equipment under actual working conditions and the development of recommendations for flagger illumination. Three types of light equipment were selected for the study: a 12-V spotlight, a 12-V high-intensity discharge (HID) floodlight, and a light tower with a 2,000 W output. Light equipment testing was performed on two projects in the state of Oregon. The findings reveal that flaggers do not feel comfortable when using 12-V spotlight and 12-V HID floodlight systems because of the small amount of light these systems emit compared with a light tower. Project sites containing a greater number and intensity of surrounding artificial lights require light systems with a greater output to illuminate the flagger. One safety problem incurred was that glare from the light tower created a hazard for motorists. However, there was no similar glare hazard for the 12-V spotlight and floodlight. The study revealed site features and flagging operations that can negatively impact the quality of flagger illumination. Two practical tools were developed as a result of the study to assist setting up and performing nighttime flagging operations in a safe manner: a flagger-illumination checklist and a flagger-illumination assessment flowchart. The flowchart is used before flagging operations begin to help plan the operation. The checklist provides guidance for assessing the flagger-illumination requirements on a work site, selecting the appropriate light equipment to use, and determining the appropriate location and setup of the equipment.