For night flagging, what should be the width and letter height of the stop/slow paddle?

The correct option for the width and letter height of the stop/slow paddle used in night flagging is 24 inches wide with an 8-inch letter height. This size specification is significant because it ensures maximum visibility and readability in low-light conditions, such as at night or in poor weather.

The dimensions of 24 inches for the width provide a large enough surface area to display the stop or slow signals clearly. Meanwhile, the 8-inch height for the letters is large enough to be legible from a distance, which is critical for the safety of both the flagger and motorists in a work zone. Safety equipment and signage must be easily recognizable to prevent accidents and ensure that drivers can react appropriately to changing conditions.

In contrast, the other choices provide either smaller dimensions for the paddle or the letter height, which could compromise visibility and recognition, especially during night operations when lighting conditions are not optimal. This makes the specified size not just a standard, but a vital safety feature for effective traffic control.