Protecting Flaggers: How AFADs Reduce Work Zone Risks

Construction workers risk their lives in work zones every year, and for those tasked with flagging traffic, the danger is even greater. As a work zone safety advocate, I’ve seen firsthand the risks flaggers face daily, and it’s time we talk about how to better protect them.

– Jess Vachon, North America Traffic

The reality is stark: according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), over 100 flaggers are killed in work zones across North America every year. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) highlights that flaggers are among the most vulnerable workers in road construction zones. These numbers aren’t just statistics—they represent lives lost and families forever changed.

The Case for Change: Moving from Traditional Flagging to Automated Solutions

Traditional flagging methods put workers directly in the line of danger. Flaggers stand mere feet from fast-moving vehicles, relying on drivers to pay attention, an increasingly risky bet in a world of distracted driving.

Recent data paints a clear picture:

• 26 workers were killed while flagging or working near traffic control devices in the U.S. in 2023 alone.
• A study by the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) found that over 75% of work zone fatalities involve motorists striking flaggers or workers.
• Companies using Automated Flagging Assistance Devices (AFADs) and Portable Signals have reported a 30% reduction in worker injuries.

The message is clear. By using automated systems and keeping flaggers off the road can save lives.

Let’s Talk Solutions: Safer Work Zones with AFADs and Portable Signals

The goal is to shift the industry mindset and encourage contractors to adopt safer traffic control methods. AFADs and Portable Signals remove workers from direct traffic exposure, reducing the chance of injury or death. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about ensuring every worker gets home safely at the end of the day.

Would your company be open to modernizing its work zone setups? Consider these questions:

• Are most of your work zones daily setups, or do you handle more long-term projects?
• Do you primarily manage one-way alternating traffic, or are your setups more complex?
• Is traffic control handled in-house, or do you subcontract it?

By understanding your company’s specific needs, we can tailor solutions that not only enhance safety but also improve efficiency.

Let’s Connect: Taking Action to Protect Your Crew

Who at your company oversees work zone safety—your safety manager or fleet supervisor?
I’d love the opportunity to discuss how together with SPI, we can implement AFADs and Portable Signals into your traffic management strategy.

Let’s work together to make work zones safer, because no job is worth a life.