RU38 Roll-up 
MUTCD W20-7A
RU5 Roll-up 
RU6 Roll-up About Flagger Ahead Signs
What are Flagger Ahead Signs, and how are they used?
Flagger Ahead Signs alert drivers that they should expect one or more flaggers ahead who are directing traffic. Flaggers instruct drivers to stop completely or to continue slowly down the road.
When are Flagger Ahead Signs used?
These signs are typically used when a two-way road narrows to only one available travel lane. Flaggers direct the two opposite traffic flows that approach the work zone.
What devices do flaggers use to direct traffic?
A flagger uses a bright red or fluorescent orange-red flag to direct traffic. Another device that flaggers use is a Stop/Slow Paddle, which is the preferred traffic control device listed in the MUTCD (6D.02, 01).
What other signs are used with Flagger Ahead Signs?
The MUTCD notes that Flagger Ahead Signs can be used with other warning signs (6H-15, 02). When a lane closure results in only one open travel lane, a series of three warning signs are commonly used. The Flagger Ahead Sign is placed farthest ahead of the work zone, followed by the “Be Prepared to Stop” Sign (W3-4) and the “One Lane Road” Sign (W20-4) (TA-10, 8).
When should I use a distance placard?
For Flagger Ahead Symbol Signs (W20-7), an optional placard (W16-2CP series) with a distance legend can be mounted below. A “Flagger Ahead” Text Sign (W20-7a) already includes customizable distance information, so a placard isn’t needed.
Are distance placards customizable?
Yes. Common distance legends are 500 Feet, 1000 Feet, or 1500 Feet, but any “appropriate” legend may be used (6H.15, 02). More information about customizing signs and placards is in the Customizations section below.
Choosing a Sign
Which Flagger Ahead Sign should I choose?
Flagger Ahead Symbol Signs and “Flagger Ahead” Text Signs are interchangeable in use (6H.15, 03). States and municipalities may have a preference for one over the other, or they may leave the decision to the project manager.
Which sign size is best for my project?
An interstate project requires the 48”x48” sign size, while highway or local road projects require the 36”x36” sign size. 30”x30” signs can only be used on low-speed, low-volume roads. This guidance applies to all signs in this category.
Should I choose a rigid sign or a roll-up sign?
Generally, rigid signs are for long-term use, and roll-up signs are for short- to medium-term use. Check out our Rigid Sign vs. Roll-Up Sign Guide for comparisons, pros and cons, and more considerations to take.
Mounting Signs
What hardware do I need to mount a rigid Flagger Ahead Sign?
You can find everything you need on our sign mounting hardware and sign posts page. 48”x48” signs have four pre-punched holes and are mounted onto two round, square, or U-channel sign posts. 36”x36” signs and 30”x30” signs can be mounted onto one of any sign post style.
How do I mount a roll-up Flagger Ahead Sign?
All roll-up signs can be mounted onto compatible portable sign stands. For a step-by-step guide on how to set up and take down roll-up signs, check out our Roll-Up Sign Deployment and Storage page.
Customizations
What customizations are available for Flagger Ahead Signs?
The distance legend on both the placard and “Flagger Ahead” Text Sign can be customized to read any distance, such as 500 Feet, 1/2 Mile, or 1 Mile.
Shipping
How are Flagger Ahead Signs shipped?
Rigid signs are layered back-to-back with slip sheeting covering each sign face for protection. Roll-up signs arrive tightly rolled in a tall, narrow box.
What materials are Flagger Ahead Signs manufactured with?
The .080” aluminum of rigid signs provides the base for two sheeting options, high-intensity prismatic (HIP) or full-cube prismatic (FCP). HIP sheeting is orange, and FCP sheeting is fluorescent orange. All reflective and non-reflective roll-up sign materials are fluorescent orange.
Where can I find more information about Flagger Ahead Signs?
Part 6 Chapter H of the MUTCD contains guidance on TTC Zone Warning Signs, a category that includes Flagger Ahead Signs.
Catalog Page 56
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