The current code is quite a departure from the previous version and is based more on usage than on the International Code. Fewer codes are defined and greater use of flag combinations is made. Definitions not encoded here, but still under consideration appear at the bottom. I and L are set aside for management roles. These flags are meant to communicate status relating to policy and procedure and to support the added responsibilties of these roles.
Some hoists refer to a specific person.
Sites are encouraged to allow members to pick a personal identifying flag, preferably from the alphabetic flags. Places and things should be defined as well, with empahsis on context. With the ten numeral flags and the 3 substitute flags, one can create any 4-digit number. The proof is left for the student. It was my thought that the flags would indicate a general status rather than be a way of communicating a specific message to a specific person.