VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
METHODS OF FLAGGING TRAFFIC
WHERE TO STAND
1.Stand facing traffic either on the edge of the shoulder of the road or in the barricade lane, just outside of the traffic lane.
2.Stand 200 to 300 feet from the end of the work area, so as to be able to guard personnel or equipment. (Less spacing may be necessary in areas where conditions warrant.)
3.Stand where you can see and be seen by approaching traffic. The distance should be at least 500 feet.
4.Flagging stations shall be preceded by proper advance warning signs. At night, flagging stations shall be adequately illuminated.
HOW TO STOP TRAFFIC
1.Stand facing traffic but keep out of traffic lane.
2.(a) With a Paddle-Hold the paddle in a stationary position with the arm
extended horizontally away from the body. The free arm shall be raised with the palm toward approaching traffic.
(b)With a Flag-Hold the flagstaff in a horizontal position in the path of the vehicle. The free arm shall be raised with the palm of the hand toward approaching traffic.
3.If time permits, drivers may be informed concerning the reason for delay. Be courteous. Be brief. For example, "Fresh oil, please drive on right." (OR- THERE”S A BIKE RACE COMING THROUGH. IT”LL BE JUST A FEW MINUTES...)

HOW TO MOVE TRAFFIC
1. (a) With a Paddle-Stand facing traffic. Hold the paddle in a stationary position with the arm extended horizontally away from the body.
(b) With a Flag-Stand parallel to traffic movement. Lower the flag behind the flagger and motion traffic to proceed with the free hand.
2. Never use a paddle or flag to signal traffic to move ahead.

HOW TO ALERT AND SLOW TRAFFIC BUT NOT STOP IT
1. Stand facing traffic.
2.(a) With a Paddle-Hold the paddle in a stationary position with the arm
extended horizontally away from the body. For added emphasis, the flagger may slowly raise and lower the free hand with the palm down.
(b) With a Flag-Without raising the arm above a horizontal position, slowly raise and lower the flag in a sweeping motion with the arm extended from the shoulder level to straight down.

NEVER WAVE A PADDLE OR FLAG
1 Signals must be clear and distinct.
2. Don't make drivers guess what they should do.
3. Never wave a paddle or flag to stop traffic or for it to proceed.