Where should a flagger be positioned in relation to the beginning of a taper for a closed lane on a rural, 2-lane road?

The ideal position for a flagger in relation to the beginning of a taper on a rural, 2-lane road is at the beginning of the taper. This location allows the flagger to provide advance warning to approaching motorists about the upcoming lane closure and necessary changes in travel patterns. By being placed at the beginning of the taper, the flagger can effectively communicate the need to merge into the open lane well in advance, thereby reducing the likelihood of sudden stops or unsafe maneuvers by drivers.

Positioning the flagger at the beginning of the taper ensures greater visibility and allows for effective traffic control ahead of the bottleneck caused by the lane closure. It also gives the flagger the best opportunity to assess traffic conditions, ensure drivers are responding appropriately to the warning, and manage the flow of vehicles through the work zone.