Safety & Traffic Control
Safety is the largest section of the C-32 exam (~27%), because nearly all of this work happens next to moving traffic.
Work-zone traffic control
Orange = work-zone signs · taper L = WS (≥ 45 mph) · the STOP/SLOW paddle is the flagger’s primary device · channelizing devices on a taper ≤ 1 × speed, on a tangent ≤ 2 × speed · cones ≥ 28 in on freeways / at night · high-vis Class 2 or 3 (Class 3 flaggers at night).
This is the same California MUTCD Part 6 material behind the C-31 trade — set up an advance warning area, a merging taper with channelizing devices, the work space with a buffer, and a termination area.
Other hazards
- Struck-by is the top hazard working next to traffic — keep the zone correct and stay visible.
- Silica: cutting or grinding concrete and asphalt without controls releases respirable crystalline silica.
- Dig Alert: call USA/811 at least two working days before excavating for posts or anchors.
- Stormwater: keep sealcoat and washout water out of storm drains using good-housekeeping BMPs.
- Hot materials: wear heat-resistant PPE when handling hot thermoplastic or asphalt.
Practice: Safety & Traffic Control
Frequently asked
What protects workers striping or paving next to live traffic?
Do you have to call 811 before drilling for sign posts or anchors?
More C-32 Parking & Highway topics
Planning & Estimating
C-32 study guide on planning and estimating parking and paving work: parking-stall layout and angles, drive-aisle widths, wheel stops, drainage slope, and estimating striping and asphalt.
Read & practice →Surface Coatings & Seals
C-32 study guide on pavement surface treatments: crack seal, fog seal, sand seal, slurry seal, micro-surfacing, chip seal, and parking-lot sealcoat — and when each is used.
Read & practice →Striping, Markings & Markers
C-32 study guide on pavement markings: white vs yellow line meanings, solid vs broken lines, paint vs thermoplastic, glass beads, raised pavement markers, and California curb colors.
Read & practice →ADA Parking & Accessibility
C-32 study guide on ADA accessible parking: how many accessible spaces a lot needs, the van-accessible ratio, car vs van access-aisle widths, the 2% slope limit, and signage.
Read & practice →Special Applications
C-32 study guide on special paving applications: tennis and basketball court surfacing, running tracks, and FAA airfield marking colors.
Read & practice →Incidental Pavement Repair
C-32 study guide on incidental pavement repair: durable pothole patching, crack sealing, mill-and-overlay, and recognizing when a base failure requires a full-depth repair.
Read & practice →