12 Apr Signaling Techniques

Signaling Techniques

Signaling techniques are essential whenever workers direct the movement of vehicles, forklifts, cranes, or suspended loads. Clear, standardized signals help prevent misunderstandings that can result in struck-by injuries, equipment collisions, dropped loads, or property damage.

Guide for Discussion

Know and Understand the Signals

Before operations begin, the operator and signal person must understand the signals that will be used.

• Use established and recognized signals appropriate for the equipment and operation.
• Review signals with the operator before beginning work when necessary.
• Never improvise signals that could be misunderstood.
• Signals must be clearly visible or audible to the operator.
• When hand signals are used for crane operations, use the applicable standard hand signals.
• If communication is lost or a signal is not understood, the operator should stop operations until communication is restored.

One Designated Signal Person

Normally, only one designated person should give signals to the operator.

• The operator must know who is providing the signals.
• The signal person should be positioned where the signals can be clearly seen.
• Avoid conflicting directions from multiple workers.
• Everyone involved should understand who has signaling responsibility.

Regardless of who is designated to give signals, any worker should communicate an emergency stop when an unsafe condition is observed, and the operator must respond appropriately.

Signal Person Responsibilities

The signal person must remain alert and focused on the operation.

The signal person should:

• Maintain effective communication with the operator.
• Position themselves to safely observe the equipment, load, travel path, and work area as required.
• Remain clear of moving equipment and suspended loads.
• Watch for workers entering the operating area.
• Warn workers before equipment or loads move into their area.
• Monitor clearances around structures and other obstructions.
• Watch for overhead power lines and maintain required clearances.
• Never direct a suspended load over workers.
• Avoid distractions while signaling.

If the signal person cannot safely observe the operation or communicate effectively with the operator, movement should stop until safe signaling can be restored.

Vehicles and Forklifts

Spotters may be necessary when operators have restricted visibility or are maneuvering in congested areas.

• Establish signals before movement begins.
• Stay visible to the driver or operator.
• Never stand directly behind or immediately in front of moving equipment.
• Stay out of pinch points and the equipment’s path of travel.
• Watch for pedestrians, structures, equipment, and overhead hazards.
• Stop the operation if visual or other established communication is lost.

Crane and Rigging Operations

Crane signaling requires additional precautions because mistakes can expose workers to suspended loads and other serious hazards.

• Signal persons must meet applicable qualification requirements.
• Use standardized hand, voice, audible, or other approved signals appropriate for the operation.
• Keep unnecessary personnel outside the load-handling area.
• Never position yourself beneath a suspended load.
• Account for boom movement, load swing, and changing clearances.
• Maintain required clearance from energized power lines.
• Stop operations whenever communication becomes unclear or conditions become unsafe.

Before Movement Begins

The operator and signal person should confirm:

• Who will give the signals?
• What signals will be used?
• Can the operator clearly receive the signals?
• Is the travel or load path clear?
• Are workers clear of the operating area?
• Are overhead power lines or other obstructions present?
• Is there sufficient clearance for the equipment and load?
• What signal will be used for an emergency stop?

Remember

Effective signaling depends on clear communication between the operator and signal person. Never assume the other person understands what you intend. When a signal is unclear, communication is lost, or conditions become unsafe, stop the operation and resolve the problem before continuing.