How to Use Traffic Wands

In the United Kingdom, traffic wands are widely employed in banksman training courses, which focus on safe vehicle marshalling and pedestrian control in environments such as construction sites, roadworks, and logistics yards.

Understanding how to use traffic wands is essential for anyone tasked with directing vehicles, ensuring compliance with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines, and maintaining clear communication between drivers and ground staff.

Banksman training emphasizes visibility, clarity, and consistency. A traffic wand acts as a portable signal device, much like a handheld traffic light. The KB20R Red Traffic Wand is a common example, designed to provide a bright, steady or flashing red signal that clearly communicates “stop” or “danger.”  The KB20R wand has 18 LED’s in its compact light sleeve so is amongst the best in class when it comes to visibility, many lower cost items rely on a smaller number of LED’s spaced out over a longer length so are less bright.

In practice, a banksman would hold the KB20R upright to halt vehicles, or sweep it across the lane to reinforce the stop command. Its robust build and high visibility make it suitable for night operations or poor weather conditions.

The Banksman Safety Wand

Equally important is the KB27RG-CSW Banksman Safety Wand, which combines red and green illumination modes. This dual-color functionality allows banksmen to signal both stop and proceed instructions with a single device using a pressure activated switch for instantaneous stop/go signalling by simply applying and releasing pressure on a single button.

During training, operators are taught to use the red mode for halting vehicles and the green mode for directing them forward or into designated areas. The KB27RG-CSW is particularly valued in UK logistics and construction sectors because it reduces ambiguity and aligns with standardized signalling practices.

When learning how to use traffic wands, banksman trainees are instructed to adopt firm, deliberate arm movements. For example, holding the wand vertically in front of the body communicates a clear stop, while pointing the wand toward a safe path and sweeping forward signals “go.” Repetition and consistency are stressed, as drivers rely on these visual cues to make immediate decisions.

Another key aspect of how to use traffic wands is positioning. Banksmen are trained to stand in safe, visible locations, never directly in the path of moving vehicles. High-visibility clothing, reflective gear, and proper stance complement the wand’s illumination, ensuring maximum safety.

Ultimately, banksman courses in the UK highlight that knowing how to use traffic wands is not just about waving a light—it’s about disciplined communication, hazard awareness, and compliance with safety standards. Devices like the KB20R Red Traffic Wand and KB27RG-CSW Banksman Safety Wand are integral tools in this process, providing reliable, standardized signals that keep both workers and drivers safe.