Signals, communication, and team coordination
Every lift is a three-way loop between the operator, the signalman or rigger, and whoever controls the site. The exam tests whether you keep that loop closed and unambiguous.
Rules
- One designated signalman per crane, identified by vest or armband, positioned with an unobstructed view of the load, the landing point, and the operator.
- Everyone on site may give the emergency stop signal; the operator obeys it without question.
- Radio traffic: identify the crane, state the command, get a repeat-back, then act. Use agreed call signs, keep the channel clear, and test the radio before the first lift.
- If a signal is unclear, interrupted, or contradicted - stop and re-establish contact. Never guess a command.
- Use standard hand signals; a raised clenched fist means stop, and both fists clenched at shift end means “dog everything” - power off, controls secured.
- In tandem or multi-crane work one signalman coordinates both operators, and each operator still retains authority to stop their own crane.
- Warn the landing crew before set-down; hands and feet clear before the load is grounded.
Worked example
Over a noise barrier, radio contact fades mid-lift. Instead of acting on a half-heard “hoist slow”, the operator holds the load, calls “Crane 1 to signalman, repeat last”, waits for a full repeat-back, and only then moves. If the radio fails permanently, the lift is suspended and a line-of-sight signalman is posted.
Traps
Two people signalling; improvised signals; acting on a partially heard command; treating a repeat-back as optional; letting riggers stand in the swing radius to guide the load by hand.