Two Flagger Operations

To slow approaching traffic in a two-flagger operation, follow these steps:

1. Stand on the shoulder of the road, holding the paddle in your one hand with the SLOW side toward traffic.
2. Extend your other arm, and with the palm facing downward, motion up and down slowly to gain driver's attention. If needed for emphasis, this motion can be more forceful.

To stop traffic, follow these steps:

1. Stand on the shoulder of the road holding the STOP/SLOW paddle in your right hand, erect and away from your body with the STOP side facing approaching traffic. Never wave the sign.
   1. Look directly at the approaching driver. Try to establish eye contact.
2. Raise your free arm with the palm of your hand toward oncoming drivers. Bring the first vehicle to a full stop.
3. Stop other vehicles from this position using the STOP sign, hand signal, and eye contact (Optional: During daytime operations, the flagger may move to the centerline to improve their visibility carrying the STOP/SLOW paddle).
4. Remain in this position until you can safely permit travel through the work area.
5. Request the first driver to activate the vehicle’s hazard warning lights.

To release traffic in a two-flagger operation, follow these steps:

1. If on the centerline, return to the shoulder.
2. Hold the paddle in one hand, turn the SLOW side of the sign toward stopped vehicles.
3. With your free arm, signal drivers to proceed. Never wave the paddle.

For more information, see the releasing traffic illustration.