NCCCO Signalperson study plan

Memorize and reproduce from memory the core hand signals: stop, emergency stop, hoist, lower, raise/lower boom, and dog everything

Describe the correct body position, arm speed, and hand orientation for each core signal so the operator can see it clearly

Distinguish between "stop" and "emergency stop" and state when each is used

Practice the core signals in front of a mirror or camera and self-correct any ambiguous motions

Add the remaining standard signals: swing, travel, telescope, extend/retract, use main/auxiliary hoist, and multiple-trolley signals

Demonstrate the full signal set without prompts in under 6 minutes with no more than one hesitation

Explain how to signal when the operator's view is blocked or when a second signalperson relays signals

Identify which signals are reserved for the signalperson only and which may be given by anyone on site

Outline the signalperson duties listed in 29 CFR 1926.1428, including what the signalperson must know and be able to do

Summarize how a signalperson is qualified or certified and what evidence of qualification must be available on site

Explain the requirements for giving directions to the operator, including the use of voice or radio when hand signals are not practical

List the situations where a signalperson must be used, and describe the stop-signal authority that any employee holds

Compare standard hand signals with non-standard or site-specific signals and state the rules for each, including what happens if a non-standard signal is used

Describe how signals are handled when there are two or more signalpersons or when a signal is relayed

Apply the regulation to short scenario questions about blocked views, radio failure, and conflicting signals

Re-drill the full hand signal set to keep recall sharp while studying regulations

State the elements of a clear voice/radio transmission: identify yourself, identify the recipient, name the equipment or load, then give the command

Use standard phraseology and phonetic alphabet practice to spell and confirm names, loads, and directions without ambiguity

Describe the acknowledgement and confirmation loop, including what to do when a transmission is garbled or unheard

Explain when voice or radio signals are used instead of hand signals and how the two methods are combined safely

Identify the failure modes of radio communication, such as dead batteries, channel interference, and lost line of sight

Define capacity, radius, boom angle, boom length, and load moment, and explain how each affects what the crane can lift

Explain how outrigger setup, ground conditions, and leveling change the load chart and why the signalperson should notice them

Describe the effects of wind, swing inertia, and load drift on a lift, and how to signal to reduce them

Use radio phraseology in a simulated blind lift where the operator cannot see the load

Summarize the power line safety rules for crane operation, including approach distances, spotter duties, and when de-energizing or grounding is required

Explain two-blocking, side loading, and boom deflection hazards and the signals or actions that prevent them

Describe rigging awareness duties: verifying sling attachment, load balance, tag lines, and pinch-point avoidance

Identify the signalperson's role in a multi-crane or critical lift, including pre-lift meeting participation

Complete at least three full-length timed practice exams covering all four domains and record every score

Rank your weakest sub-topics from the practice results and drill only those for the final three sessions

Perform a final hand signal and radio call run-through with no notes and no more than two errors

Recite the 1926.1428 signalperson duties and stop-signal authority from memory