From Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Construction Specifications:
“Flagger Training. Provide flaggers that successfully completed a flagger-training course within the last 3 years that complies with the Department’s minimum flagger training guidelines described below. Assure that flaggers carry a valid wallet-sized training card containing the name of the flagger, training source, date of successful completion of training, and signature; or provide a roster of trained flaggers to the Representative before the start of flagging operations that contains the names of flaggers, training source, and date of successful completion of training. Minimum flagger training guidelines include the following:
1. Minimum Course Contents.
• Why flagging is important
• Fundamental principles of work zone traffic control
– Component parts of the work zone
– Channelization devices, spacing
– Tapers
– Buffer Space
– Visibility to approaching drivers
• Human factors – driver attitude, expectation, reaction
• Qualifications of a flagger
• Clothing
• Flagger Operations
– Setting up the flagger station
– Signaling devices and when used
– Hand signaling procedure
– Communications
– Two-flagger operations
– Single flagger operations
– Flagging in intersections
– Nighttime flagging
– Emergency situations
• Flagging in adverse weather conditions
• Sign requirements
• Practical exercise
2. Objectives. At the end of the course the student should be able to:
• Describe why flagging is important
• Describe flagger qualifications
• Ensure the flagger station complies with Publication 212, Publication 213, and the MUTCD
• Gather all necessary equipment
• Select the proper flagging station/position/location
• Control traffic using the stop/slow paddle
• Control traffic using the red flag
• Control two-way traffic in one lane of a highway
• Control traffic at an intersection
• Recognize and be able to control traffic in unique or special flagging situations
• Control traffic at night and recognize a safe nighttime flagging operation
• Communicate with co-workers and the public
3. Test. All students must take and pass a written, closed book, knowledge test consisting of a minimum of 20 questions. Passing is 70%.
4. Re-training. Re-training is required every 3 years.”