Communication, Signalling and Teamwork
One voice, one signal
Lifting operations rely on a single, clear line of communication. The designated dogger or rigger gives signals to the operator; only one person signals at a time. The operator must stop immediately on a stop signal from anyone. Standard hand signals, whistle or radio protocols must be agreed before the lift, and everyone involved must know them. Radios need a clear channel, agreed call signs, and a check before the lift starts.
The pre-lift briefing
A short briefing covers: the lift plan, the load and its mass, the path, the exclusion zone, the signals, the emergency stop procedure, and who does what. It is the point where the team confirms understanding, not just attendance. Roles: operator, dogger/rigger, spotter, and any banksman for travel.
Traps
Questions test whether you know that anyone can stop the lift, that the operator must not act on ambiguous signals, and that a radio failure means stop, not 'continue with hand signals unless agreed'. Another trap is the assumption that a more senior person overrides the designated signaler - they do not.
Worked example
If radio contact is lost mid-lift, the operator stops and holds the load safely, the dogger establishes visual contact or an agreed alternative, and the lift resumes only when communication is confirmed. Never continue on assumption.