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Apprentice Q&A · #151

What are the standard hand signals for communicating with a crane operator?

4th YearRigging & EquipmentRED · Stop / Verify

Hoist Up: Forearm vertical, index finger pointing up, move hand in small horizontal circles. * Lower (Hoist Down): Arm extended downward, index finger pointing down, move hand in small horizontal circles. * Swing: Arm extended horizontally, point finger in direction of swing of boom. * Stop: Arm extended horizontally, palm down, move arm rapidly back and forth. * Emergency Stop: Both arms extended horizontally, palms down, move both arms rapidly back and forth.

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Plain-English answer

Hoist Up: Forearm vertical, index finger pointing up, move hand in small horizontal circles. * Lower (Hoist Down): Arm extended downward, index finger pointing down, move hand in small horizontal circles. * Swing: Arm extended horizontally, point finger in direction of swing of boom. * Stop: Arm extended horizontally, palm down, move arm rapidly back and forth. * Emergency Stop: Both arms extended horizontally, palms down, move both arms rapidly back and forth.

Field checklist

Ask Foreman

Hey boss, I’m on rigging & equipment and need verification before I touch this: What are the standard hand signals for communicating with a crane operator? Do you want me to stop here and check the approved detail, submittal, or inspector/manufacturer requirement first?

Open Ask Foreman

Verify before acting

Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

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