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Flagger fatalities are increasing across North America, with more tragic accidents occurring in recent years. From Maine to South Dakota, work zone incidents have taken the lives of many flaggers, highlighting the urgent need for better safety practices. In response, the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) has introduced new guidelines focused on worker protection, specifically for Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD) operators. This blog will discuss recent flagger-related incidents, ATSSA’s updated worker protection guidelines and how using innovative traffic control solutions like North America Traffic’s AFADs can help improve safety in work zones.

The Growing Risk – Recent Incidents Involving Flaggers

In 2024, several tragic accidents involving flaggers have served as a stark reminder of the dangers workers face on the front lines of traffic control. On September 17^th, in Beadle County, South Dakota, a construction flagger lost her life when she was caught between a truck and a pickup. The driver of a Dodge Ram was travelling west on US Highway 14 when they entered a construction zone where the 44-year-old flagger was directing traffic. While the Dodge driver followed the flagger’s instructions, an International MV607 truck travelling in the same direction couldn’t stop in time, colliding with the Dodge and fatally striking the flagger. Just a few weeks later, on October 1^st, another flagger was killed in Orland, Maine, when a vehicle struck her while she was directing traffic along Route 1. Shortly after that, another flagger lost their life in Lancaster County after being hit by an SUV. These incidents show a concerning trend of increasing fatalities among flaggers, indicating that this is a widespread issue across many states. According to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse, fatalities in work zones have been rising. In 2019, there were 135 worker deaths in these areas, and this number continues to grow as construction projects increase. Many of these fatalities are linked to driver distractions, such as texting or using phones while driving through work zones. Speeding is also a significant factor, as drivers often ignore speed limits and fail to slow down when approaching flagged areas despite visible warnings and signs. The rising volume of traffic adds to the complexity of the situation, underscoring the need for both drivers and construction professionals to improve work zone management.

How AFADs Can Help Reduce Work Zone Fatalities

One of the most important advancements in work zone safety is the development of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs). These devices are designed to take over the responsibilities of human flaggers in high-risk areas, allowing workers to operate from safer distances. AFADs use red and yellow LED lights, highly reflective break-away gate arms and a remote control to manage traffic control, which means flaggers are no longer required to stand in vulnerable positions within a work zone. The adoption of AFADs is becoming increasingly essential for improving safety standards for workers, and it’s easy to see why. These automated flaggers enhance safety for traffic control persons and minimize the risk of human error while also providing a more consistent approach to traffic management. They are especially beneficial in areas or places with heavy traffic, where flaggers face greater dangers. As awareness of their benefit grows, the use of AFADs is likely to become more common in various construction sites across North America.

What’s the Takeaway from these Recent Incidents?

While technology like AFADs plays an essential role in enhancing work zone safety, there are broader lessons to be learned from the rising number of flagger fatalities. One key lesson is the importance of driver awareness. Many accidents can be avoided if drivers pay attention to their surroundings and follow traffic control signals carefully. Public campaigns aimed at educating drivers about the dangers of work zones and the need to slow down are equally important. The ATSSA’s Worker Protection Toolkit offers valuable resources for raising public awareness about work zone safety and how everyone can do their part in preventing accidents. Another takeaway is the need for stronger enforcement of work zone regulations. In many cases, flaggers suffer injuries or fatalities because drivers ignore posted speed limits or overlook warning signs. Increasing penalties for work zone violations and ensuring strict enforcement can significantly reduce these tragic accidents. Finally, training for flaggers and other work zone personnel is essential. Flaggers need to be trained not only on the proper use of traffic control devices but also in maintaining their safety while on the job. This training includes understanding how to position themselves concerning traffic and being aware of their surroundings at all times. Ongoing refresher courses and updates on new safety solutions, such as AFADs, are essential for keeping workers informed on the latest best practices. Together, these measures can help create a safer environment for both workers and drivers in work zones.

The Role of ATSSA’s Worker Protection Guidelines

The American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) plays a vital role in enhancing work zone safety through its comprehensive guidelines and resources. In 2023, ATSSA launched a Worker Protection Toolkit aimed at preventing injuries among roadway workers and equipping industry professionals with the necessary skills to respond effectively in the event of an injury or fatality. As part of its ongoing commitment to safety and education, ATSSA has recently updated the toolkit to include two new resources: “Model Training Specifications” and “Guidance for AFAD Operators.” With these additions, the toolkit now offers nine resources designed to help businesses prepare employees to safely handle incidents in the field. Below are the topics covered in the toolkit. You can access the full toolkit for free by downloading it here.

• Work Zone Terminology for New Hires
• Advanced Work Zone Terminology
• Work Zone Training and Resource Guide
• Incident Investigation Checklists
• Emergency Response (Management)
• Emergency Response (Additional Recommendations)
• Emergency Scene Response (Field Document)
• Model Training Specifications
• Guidance for AFAD Operators

A Closer Look at ATSSA’s Recommendations for AFAD Operators

The use of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) has increased in recent years, leading to greater safety for roadway workers. However, with any new technology, there can be confusion about how to use it correctly. To address this, the ATSSA developed a guide outlining the proper use and applications of AFADs, based on the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Below is a summary of their key recommendations. For a more detailed overview of the guidance provided to AFAD operators, please refer to the Worker Protection Toolkit.

Training Requirements:

• AFAD Operators must receive training on their specific device from the manufacturer or a designated representative.
• They should complete a recognized flagger training course that covers the types and appropriate applications of AFAD devices, suitable visibility attire, hazards associated with flagging and escape route planning, signalling techniques, communication with work crews and the public, basic principles of traffic control in work zones, techniques for setting up flagging operations and compliance with state and federal flagging standards.

Pre-Operation Checklist

• Check that the AFAD is in good working order.
• Make sure power supply levels are sufficient for the task.
• Place a supplemental Stop/Slow paddle at each AFAD unit in case of operational failure.
• Confirm appropriate signage is installed and consider lighting for nighttime operation.
• Establish communication systems with other operators and the work crew. Plan for operator relief if needed.
• Ensure there is a safe, unobstructed place for the operator to stand near the AFAD, away from traffic.

Expanding AFAD Use – The Future of Work Zone Safety

As work zone safety continues to improve, the use of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) is likely to become more common. Several states have already begun requiring automated flagger systems in high-risk work zones, and more are expected to follow suit. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is among the next to implement these systems. NDOT is dedicated to enhancing safety in highway work zones and will start using AFADs on highway construction projects throughout the state. Starting in 2025, the use of AFADs will be mandatory alongside traditional flagging. This requirement will apply to flagger-controlled operations that are expected to last four hours or more. If more states like Nebraska adopt this approach, it could significantly enhance the safety of flaggers on the job.

A Call to Action for Work Zone Safety

The increase in flagger fatalities across North America serves as a reminder of the inherent dangers present in work zones. However, by adopting innovative traffic control solutions like NAT’s Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs), enforcing safety regulations and running ongoing public awareness campaigns, we can work to minimize these risks. Every worker deserves to return home safely after their shift, and it’s up to each of us to make that a reality. To learn more about our flagging devices, including the AFAD that started it all and how they can enhance safety at your worksite, contact us today.