Making Synapses · Bringing Knowledge to Mankind
ConstructionWhen You Need a Signal Person
Twenty flashcards on when federal law requires a signal person and the rules that keep every signal clear.
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20 cards
- First case that requires a signal person?
- The point of operation is not in full view of the operator.
- What does point of operation mean in that rule?
- The path the load travels, or the area near or at where it is placed.
- Second case that requires a signal person?
- The equipment is traveling and the view in the direction of travel is obstructed.
- Third case that requires a signal person?
- The operator or the person handling the load decides one is needed because of site-specific safety concerns.
- What types of signals may be given to the operator?
- Hand, voice, audible or new signals.
- Which method must be used for hand signals?
- The Standard Method, shown in Appendix A of the federal crane rule.
- When may non-standard hand signals be used?
- When the Standard Method is infeasible, or does not cover the operation or attachment.
- What must happen before using non-standard hand signals?
- The signal person, operator and lift director (if any) meet and agree on them before the operation.
- What must the signals, and the way they reach the operator, be suited to?
- The site conditions, whether by direct line of sight, video, radio or other means.
- What must the operator do if signal transmission is interrupted?
- Safely stop the operations that need signals until it is restored and a proper signal is given and understood.
- The operator spots a safety problem and needs to talk to the signal person: what first?
- Safely stop operations; they resume only when both agree the problem is solved.
- How many people may give signals to a crane at one time?
- Only one person at a time.
- What is the one exception to that rule?
- Anyone who becomes aware of a safety problem must alert the operator with the stop or emergency stop signal.
- Must the operator obey a stop signal from someone who is not the signal person?
- Yes. The operator must obey a stop or emergency stop signal, no matter who gives it.
- From whose point of view must the signal person give directions?
- From the operator's direction perspective.
- What authority does the operator have when there is a safety concern?
- To stop and refuse to handle loads until a qualified person determines that safety is assured.
- A worker must go into the swing hazard area out of the operator's view: what first?
- The worker, or someone they instruct, makes sure the operator is told.
- The operator knows a worker went into that hazard area: when may the superstructure rotate?
- Only after being told, through a pre-arranged communication system, that the worker is in a safe position.
- Who must be able to see each outrigger while it is extended and set?
- The operator, or a signal person.
- A worker is hoisted on a boatswain's chair into a drill shaft: where must a signal person be?
- Stationed at the shaft opening.
Official sources
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), via GovInfo (GPO)
29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC: Cranes and Derricks in Construction (CFR 2025 edition)
Making Synapses is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by OSHA, any crane maker or any certification or training provider. Agency and rule names are named only to describe the content.