In the world of traffic control, communication is crucial. For Flagger Force team members, radio communication plays a vital role in managing traffic flow through work zones. Phrases like “One and done,” “Three from me,” and “Four no more” might sound like jargon to the uninitiated, but to the Flagger Force team, they are essential messages that ensure smooth and safe operations.
Radios have become as critical to traffic control teams as vests, hard hats, and safety glasses. They are a key part of the Flagger Force toolkit, helping workers stay safe while keeping traffic moving efficiently. Although the general public might use radios occasionally for activities like hunting or traveling, their use in traffic control has proven indispensable day by day.
Effective communication is a critical component of workplace safety. The use of radios in traffic control aligns with broader industry practices that prioritize clear and efficient communication to prevent accidents and enhance safety. By adopting and continuously improving these communication practices, Flagger Force not only upholds industry standards but also sets an example for others in the field of traffic control.
How Are Radios Used in Traffic Flagging?
Flagging can be performed without radios, but using radios enhances safety significantly. Without radios, flaggers must constantly watch each other, diverting their attention from oncoming traffic. This can create hazardous situations. The ideal stance for a traffic control flagger is to hold the paddle in the right hand and have their radio clipped to their vest. This keeps them facing the traffic and ready to respond to any situation.
Clear communication about the last vehicle passing through the work zone is essential. For instance, one flagger might say, “Last vehicle is a silver Honda Civic.”
Then, their partner at the other end of the work zone might respond with, “Copy. Last vehicle is a silver Honda Civic.”
This exchange ensures that the work zone is clear before new traffic proceeds. Flagger Force calls it “three-way communication.” There’s an original message, and then there’s confirmation of that message. Lastly, the information is corrected, if necessary.
Training in Use of Radios
Flagger Force offers comprehensive radio training to crew members. This training emphasizes the importance of three-way communications and includes hands-on practice, allowing team members to become proficient in using radios in real-world scenarios.
It also covers the fine points of radio communication that ensure clarity and safety. Here are a few examples:
- Essential communications only: Limiting radio use to essential communications reduces confusion and clutter on the airwaves.
- Public airwaves awareness: Radios use public airwaves, so messages can potentially be heard by anyone. It is crucial to maintain professionalism and confidentiality.
- Battery conservation: Radios must last throughout the shift, so conserving battery life is essential.
- High-quality radios: Crew members are encouraged to invest in high-quality, preferably waterproof radios to ensure reliability in various conditions.
Common Radio Phrases in Traffic Control
Here are some other messages you might hear on a Flagger Force radio:
- “I am returning traffic.”
- “I am sending traffic.”
- “Let them roll.”
- “Let traffic fly.”
- “Let ‘em go.”
- “Slow roll it.”
These phrases are part of the standardized communication protocol that helps ensure everyone knows what is happening at any moment, further enhancing safety and efficiency.
The use of radios in traffic control has become a cornerstone of Flagger Force operations. By facilitating clear, efficient, and safe communication, radios help ensure traffic flows smoothly through work zones while keeping workers and the public safe. As technology advances, the training and equipment provided by Flagger Force ensure that their team members are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern traffic control.
So, stay safe and “let ‘em roll.”
