Course Description

Flagger Certification Course

The Flagger Certification Course was developed to provide Flaggers with the basic knowledge, information and awareness to perform their jobs safely.? Before starting a job, Flaggers are encouraged to talk with their supervisor and familiarize themselves with the work area, specific job site hazards and proper flagging procedures.? (WAC 296-155-305 (7)(a)).

Once the Flagger course is successfully completed (passing written exam with 80% or better), the student will receive a wallet size card certifying their training to perform as a qualified Flagger. The card must be carried when the Flagger is performing flagging duties. The card is valid for 3 years.

Because flaggers are responsible for the public safety and make the greatest number of contacts with the public of all highway workers, they should be trained in safe traffic control practices and public contact techniques. Flaggers should be able to satisfactorily demonstrate the following abilities.

• Ability to receive and communicate specific instructions clearly, firmly and courteously;
• Ability to move and maneuver quickly in order to avoid danger from errant vehicle;
• Ability to control signaling devices such as paddles and flags in order to provide clear and positive guidance to drivers approaching a TTC zone in frequently changing situations;
• Ability to understand and apply safe traffic control practices, sometimes in stressful or emergency situations;
• Ability to recognize dangerous traffic situations and warn workers in sufficient time to avoid injury

The physical demands that may encountered on the job

• Ability to stand for prolonged periods on uneven surfaces (up to 10 hours)
• Ability to traverse uneven surfaces and terrain
• Ability to stoop kneel or crouch
• Ability to grasp, push or pull
• Ability to hear warnings
• Ability to see dangerous situations
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• In Washington, Idaho and Oregon States, Flaggers must be at a minimum, 18 years of age
• Must obtain a Flagger Certification Card
• Ability to receive, understand and take positive appropriate action from information/instructions presented verbally and/or in writing

Work environment 

• While performing the essential functions of this position the employee is frequently exposed to vibrations, working near moving mechanical parts, extreme cold, wet or humid outdoor weather conditions, fumes or airborne particles.
• Working time may require irregular hours, on-call status, and/or shift times.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud and can frequently exceed 85 decibels.