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HAND SIGNALS FOR CRANE OPERATIONS
Safety Recommendations:________________________________________________________________________________
Job Specific Topics:_____________________________________________________________________________________
M.S.D.S Reviewed:_____________________________________________________________________________________
Attended By:
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The following are the most commonly used hand signals for directing crane lifting operations. Some special operations may require adaptations of these basic signals. When using hand signal be sure the operator can see you and that both of you understand all the signals. You and the operator are in charge of an important operation. Co-workers lives depend on your skills. A wrong signal could cause a serious injury or possible death. THINK SAFETY!
HOIST -- Extend the right arm straight out and raise the forearm to vertical, forefinger pointing up, then move hand in small horizontal circle.
LOWER -- Extend the right arm downward, forefinger pointing down, then move hand in small horizontal circle.
RAISE BOOM -- Extend right arm straight out, fingers closed and thumb pointing upward.
LOWER BOOM -- Extend right arm straight out, fingers closed and thumb pointing downward.
SWING -- Extend right arm away from body, point with finger in direction of swing of boom.
STOP -- Right arm extended down with wrist bent and palm down and open.
EMERGENCY STOP -- Right arm extended, palm down, then move hand rapidly right and left.
TRAVEL -- (both tracks, crawler cranes only) Use both fists in front of body, making a circular motion about each other to indicate the direction of travel - forward or backward.
DOG EVERYTHING -- Clasp hands in front of the body.
RAISE BOOM & LOWER LOAD -- Extend right arm with thumb pointing up, then flex fingers in and out as long as load movement is desired.
LOWER BOOM & RAISE LOAD -- Extend right arm with thumb pointing down, then flex fingers in and out as long as load movement is desired.
As for the rest of us on the job, stay alert when working near any crane operation. Avoid working under a moving load -- stay clear of the counter balance -- and always remember that the crane operator's vision may be obscured; be on guard for your own safety.
KEEP ALL PARTS OF A CRANE, FALL LINES, HOOK, BLOCK, AND LOAD A MINIMUM OF 15 FEET FROM ALL ELECTRICAL LINES.