Signalling and communication during lifting
Hand signals radio and the rule of one director
The crane operator often cannot see the entire lift themselves — the load, the landing spot and the people nearby. Therefore, there is often a rigger or signaller who directs the lift. Communication between them is part of the safety: if a signal is misunderstood, the load can go the wrong way.
§Why fixed signals
Agreed, fixed signals eliminate doubt. When both parties use the same signals, you don't need to guess what the other person means. The signals must be clear and visible or audible at a distance, and they must be the same every time so they become a routine you can rely on under pressure.
§Common hand signals
Hand signals are used when driver and signaller can see each other. They cover the basic movements the crane can perform and must be calm and unambiguous.
- 01Hoist up and hoist down — the load is lifted or lowered
- 02Drive forward, backward, right or left — the load moves horizontally
- 03Swing — the crane's arm or boom rotates
- 04Slow — the same movement, but performed at reduced speed
- 05Stop — the lift is stopped immediately
§The one-conductor rule
Only one person directs the lift at a time. If several give signals simultaneously, the operator doesn't know who to follow. The designated signaller is the only one who directs — except for the stop signal, which anyone may give. If the signaller needs to be changed while the load is suspended, it happens when the load is stationary and is clearly agreed.
§Radio and indirect line of sight
When the operator and signal giver can't see each other—for example during high lifts or around corners—radio is used. The same principles apply: clear, uniform messages, confirmation that the message is understood, and an agreement about what happens if the connection drops. If you lose contact, the lift stops.
§Before starting FVU, you clarify which level suits you. The article explains the purpose of the intake interview and the guiding test, how the levels connect, the difference between FVU-reading and FVU-mathematics and how you progress.
Operator and signal person agree on communication before the lift starts: who directs, are hand signals or radio used, and where is the signal person positioned so they can see both load and landing spot. A brief agreement before the lift avoids many misunderstandings along the way.