OSHA Signalperson Responsibilities (29 CFR 1926.1428)
What 1926.1428 actually requires
The signalperson is a qualified person, not just a person holding a radio. Under 1926.1428 the signalperson must (1) know and understand the signals in 1926.1419 through 1926.1422, (2) know and understand the type of crane being used and its limitations, including crane dynamics and rigging basics, and (3) be competent in applying the type of signals used on that job.
Qualification comes two ways: a third-party qualified evaluator, or an employer-qualified evaluator who has documented the signalperson’s knowledge and skill through a written and a practical test. Either way, the documentation must be available at the worksite and must identify the type of signals the person is qualified to give. Qualification is not permanent: a signalperson must be re-evaluated when there is evidence of unsafe performance, after an incident, or when moving to a different type of crane or signaling method.
On the job
Stay where you can see both the load and the operator; if you lose sight or communication, stop the lift. Direct only one crane at a time, keep unauthorized people from signaling, and stop the operation whenever you see a hazard, even if the lift plan says otherwise. The operator, in turn, must obey a stop signal from anyone.
Traps
Questions like to offer “the employer’s evaluation must be done by a third party” (false - an employer-qualified evaluator is allowed), “qualification lasts for life” (false), and “the signalperson may signal two cranes simultaneously” (false). Rule of thumb: see it or stop it - the signalperson’s authority to stop is never limited by the lift plan.