I run a charity cycling event with 500+ riders. We don't need too

much traffic control because it's a ride...not a race. We do have one

very narrow bridge where we volunteered to provide certified flaggers. First, the

local powers-that-be were appreciative of us bringing up this danger

spot. It showed we were a responsible event.

Anyway, we hired a

temp agency for three flaggers. This company said they provide flaggers

to construction companies on a regular basis. We made it very clear we

were not schooled in traffic control and we would not be at the

bridge...that's why we hired them! I guess they were not that into

safety. One of the flaggers was very experienced and could not believe

the lack of a safety plan of her co-workers. She will never work for

that agency again. She filed a formal complaint with the State against

this company (not us). When I called the temp agency after the event

they took zero responsibility. After the event they said it was

our job to be on site and supervise those flaggers. Granted, that was

probably in the fine print but I made it very clear we were hiring them

to oversee traffic flow. Luckily, no one got hurt.

My suggestion is to write on the flagger contract "We will not be on

site" and specific instructions i.e. "Manage alternating one way

traffic" and "Company X will provide all equipment: signage, radios and

cones."

I'm not an attorney but you get the idea. Go with a reputable temp company and read the contract.

Any other suggestions?