01
Hoist
Forearm vertical, index finger pointing up. Move the hand in a small horizontal circle.
VISUAL FIELD GUIDE
Rigging & crane hand signals
Recognize common standard signals and review the habits that keep lifting operations controlled.
See the signals ↓STANDARD METHOD
Eight essential hand signals
The still images show each starting pose. Follow the motion described on the card.
02
Lower
Arm extended downward, index finger pointing down. Move the hand in a small horizontal circle.
03
Stop
One arm extended horizontally, palm down. Move the arm back and forth horizontally.
04
Emergency stop
Both arms extended horizontally, palms down. Move both arms back and forth.
05
Swing
Extend one arm and point with the index finger in the direction the boom should swing.
06
Raise boom
Extend one arm horizontally, close the fingers, and point the thumb upward.
07
Lower boom
Extend one arm horizontally, close the fingers, and point the thumb downward.
08
Dog everything
Clasp both hands in front of the body. This means to pause and hold all functions.
BEFORE THE LIFT
Rigging safety basics
Inspect the gear
Check slings, hooks, latches, shackles and attachment points. Remove damaged gear from service.
Know the load
Verify load weight, center of gravity, working load limits and the effect of sling angles.
Control the area
Keep people clear of the fall zone. Never stand under a suspended load; use tag lines when appropriate.
Control communication
Use one designated signal person, maintain communication, and stop whenever a signal is unclear.
OSHA 30 STUDY HUB
Build your construction-safety foundation
Review the Focus Four hazards, PPE, ladders and scaffolds, electrical safety, excavation, materials handling, cranes and rigging, tools, and health hazards.
WireWise Tools is a study aid and does not issue an OSHA 10- or OSHA 30-hour course completion card.
The operator must obey it, no matter who gives it. When communication is interrupted or a signal is not understood, stop safely before continuing.