People Aren't Cones
Stand Out in Yellow to Stay Safe At Flagger Force, we believe visibility saves lives. Too often, roadway workers dressed in orange personal protective equipment (PPE) are mistaken for cones, barrels, and other traffic control devices, and that confusion can lead to deadly consequences. We’re committed to ensuring our crews are seen, recognized, and respected on the roadway, which is why we’ve made the deliberate choice to use high-visibility yellow PPE. Yellow stands out and differentiates our people from traffic control devices, and in fast-moving environments where drivers make split-second decisions, that visual distinction can make all the difference between a life saved and a life lost.
Why Yellow?
Our methodology isn’t just about compliance. It’s about understanding how people think, perceive their surroundings, and react. Research in human factors and traffic safety shows that individuals are hardwired to notice specific visual cues, including bright colors. We consistently use high-visibility yellow PPE because it’s effective at creating a safer environment for our crews and the drivers passing through our work zones.
Human Factors
Yellow is the most visible color to the human eye, naturally capturing attention and helping the brain focus on key objects, like traffic control professionals wearing this color of PPE.
Psychological Associations
Research shows that yellow is commonly associated with alertness and caution, making it an ideal color for use in hazardous environments.
Optimal Contrast
Fluorescent yellow is highly visible in both daylight and low-light conditions, and it can be seen from a distance. Its strong contrast against the dark tones of the roadway makes it especially effective in the traffic control industry.
Visual Consistency
In fast-moving, unpredictable work zone environments, consistency in visual cues, like our signature high-visibility yellow PPE, reduces driver confusion and reaction time. When motorists know what to look for, they’re more likely to respond appropriately and keep everyone safe.
A Message from Our President & CEO
“At Flagger Force, people matter. Behind every hard hat and safety vest is a son, daughter, father, mother, sister, or friend who deserves to return home safely to their loved ones at the end of every day. That’s why we made a deliberate commitment to use full body, high-visibility yellow PPE. It can be seen clearly in various conditions—day or night, rain or shine—making our crews more visible and protecting the safety of our people, our clients, and the communities we serve.”
– Mike Doner, President & CEO of Flagger Force
Meet the People Who Keep Our Communities Moving
Behind the bright hard hats and safety vests are dedicated individuals who serve with purpose and are committed to living our company values of leadership, integrity, respect, and trust. At Flagger Force, our field employees take pride in protecting others and keeping our communities moving. That’s why we wear high-visibility yellow gear to make sure our crews stand out, and you get home safe. We’ve got your back in every work zone. Explore our employee spotlight blogs to learn more about the people keeping you safe.
Stay Alert, Stay Alive: Work Zone Safety Tips for Drivers
In 2023, across the United States there were an estimated:
According to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse.
Flagger Force encourages all drivers to:
- Avoid Distractions – Drivers must stay alert while navigating a work zone. This includes always keeping their eyes on the road.
- Slow Down – Speeding in work zones can make it more difficult to respond to traffic control signals and lane shifts due to road work. Adhere to the posted speed limits in work zones, which are often reduced.
- Keep Your Distance – Drivers are urged to leave plenty of space between their vehicle and the car in front of them to avoid rear-end collisions.
- Move Over – When motorists encounter a stopped vehicle with its flashing or amber warning lights on, such as a traffic control truck, they should move over to the lane furthest away, if possible.
- Understand State Traffic Laws – Motorists must be aware of their state’s traffic and work zone safety laws and the consequences of violating the rules, such as hefty fines, criminal implications, and, more importantly, causing serious injuries or death.
It Takes All of Us
While Flagger Force can do everything in its power to provide employees with industry-leading safety training, educational resources, state-of-the-art technology, and high-visibility yellow PPE, it’s still not enough. It takes a collaborative effort between motorists, government agencies, safety organizations, elected officials, law enforcement officers, and community members to truly protect those who work on or near the roadway and prevent tragic accidents.
Here’s how you can do your part:
Drive Safely
Always stay alert behind the wheel, adhere to posted speed limits, and obey all traffic control signs.
Know the Laws
Familiarize yourself with your state’s traffic and work zone safety laws and the penalties for breaking them.
Support Legislation
Get involved and advocate for laws that enhance work zone safety.