What is the minimum width requirement for Stop/Slow retroreflective paddles?

The minimum width requirement for Stop/Slow retroreflective paddles is 18 inches. This size is established to ensure that the paddles are clearly visible to drivers, even from a distance and under various lighting conditions. A paddle of this width can effectively convey instructions to approaching vehicles, allowing for safer traffic control in work zones. The retroreflective material further enhances visibility at night or in low-light situations, making it critical for flaggers to be easily seen and understood by drivers in order to reduce the risk of accidents.

In comparison, wider paddles might provide even greater visibility, but they would not meet the specific minimum requirement set forth by standards for traffic control devices. Therefore, while options for greater widths exist, they would not be considered the minimum necessary size, which is why an 18-inch paddle is the standard for safety and regulatory compliance.