What standard hand and voice signals are commonly required during crane operations, and who should give them?

• A. Signals are optional and can be given by any worker.
• B. The operator responds to nonstandard hand gestures from nearby workers.
• C. Standardized signals (e.g., hoist, lower, stop, swing) are given by a designated signalperson or rigging crew; the operator must comply and may confirm signals verbally.
• D. Signals are only given by radio communication.

Answer: (C)

Standardized hand and voice signals create a clear, predictable communication channel between the crane operator and the person guiding the lift. These signals are provided by a designated signalperson or rigging crew who are trained to use the recognized gestures for actions such as hoist, lower, stop, and swing. The operator must follow these signals to move or halt the load, and it’s good practice to confirm signals verbally to prevent misinterpretation, especially if visibility is limited or there’s a lot of noise. Relying on nonstandard gestures from nearby workers can lead to dangerous misunderstandings, so they should not be used. Radios can supplement communication, but they do not replace the need for standardized signals from the designated signalperson.