What is the primary purpose of using retroreflective paddles in flagging?

The primary purpose of using retroreflective paddles in flagging is to enhance visibility. Retroreflective materials work by reflecting light back towards its source, making the paddles more visible to drivers, especially in low-light conditions or at night. This enhanced visibility is crucial for safety on roadways, as it ensures that drivers can clearly see and react to flaggers and their signals from a distance.

The design and material of retroreflective paddles allow them to effectively catch and reflect headlights from vehicles, significantly improving recognition of flagging signals. The greater visibility provided by these paddles helps to prevent accidents and ensures that traffic flows safely in the presence of construction or roadwork. Therefore, utilizing retroreflective paddles is an essential practice in flagging to communicate important messages and instructions to drivers.