Why Hand Signals Matter
Hand signals provide a reliable way to communicate when:
- Engine noise makes verbal communication difficult
- Radio communication fails or isn't available
- Distance makes verbal commands hard to hear
- Multiple languages are spoken on site
- Safety requires clear, unambiguous instructions
Using standardized signals helps prevent:
- Struck-by accidents
- Crushed-by accidents
- Load drops
- Property damage
- Communication errors
General Rules for Using Hand Signals
For Signalers
- Stand where the operator can see you clearly
- Maintain eye contact with the operator
- Wear high-visibility clothing
- Use clear, distinct movements
- Give one signal at a time
- Stay focused on the task
- Know when to signal an emergency stop
For Operators
- Only follow signals from the designated signaler
- Stop immediately if you lose sight of the signaler
- Stop if signals are unclear or confusing
- Never move unless directed by proper signals
- Know and obey the emergency stop signal
- Understand all signals before operating equipment
Universal Hand Signals
Stop
- Arm extended, palm down
- Move arm back and forth horizontally
- Used for all equipment
- Takes priority over other signals
Emergency Stop
- Both arms extended, palms down
- Wave arms back and forth horizontally
- Used in urgent situations
- All movement must cease immediately
Start Engine/Begin Operation
- Simulate pulling cord with hand
- Alternatively, move arm in circle at waist level
- Indicates readiness to begin
Shut Engine Off
- Draw hand across throat in cutting motion
- Clear signal to power down equipment
- Used at end of operations or for maintenance
Crane Operation Signals
Hoist/Raise Load
- Forearm vertical, index finger pointing up
- Move hand in small horizontal circles
- Speed of circles indicates desired speed
Lower Load
- Arm extended downward, index finger pointing down
- Move hand in small horizontal circles
- Speed of circles indicates desired speed
Move Slowly
- Place one hand motionless in front of hand giving motion signal
- Used to indicate caution or precision movements
Raise Boom
- Arm extended, thumb pointing up
- Closing fingers to make fist if greater speed needed
Lower Boom
- Arm extended, thumb pointing down
- Closing fingers to make fist if greater speed needed
Swing/Turn
- Arm extended, point in direction of swing
- Used to indicate direction of boom movement
Stop
- Arm extended horizontally, palm down
- Hold position rigidly
- All movement stops immediately
Dog Everything
- Clasp hands in front of body
- Indicates secure and hold current position
Travel/Move Equipment
- Arm extended forward, hand open, palm forward
- Push hand in direction of travel
- Both arms indicating motion for track equipment
Excavator/Backhoe Signals
Dig
- Make digging motion with fingers
- Point to location where digging should occur
Curl Bucket
- Fingers curled toward palm in scooping motion
- Shows direction of bucket movement
Dump Bucket
- Fingers spread from palm in releasing motion
- Indicates when to release material
Swing
- Thumb points in direction of swing
- Arm extended to indicate travel path
Track Movement
- Push both fists forward/backward for track movement
- Moving one fist indicates turning
Loader/Dozer Signals
Raise Blade/Bucket
- Arm extended, thumb up
- Motion continues until signal stops
Lower Blade/Bucket
- Arm extended, thumb down
- Motion continues until signal stops
Tilt Bucket
- Hands at 45° angle, move to indicate tilt direction
- Shows whether to curl back or dump
Float Blade
- Arms crossed at wrists in front of body
- Indicates blade should follow ground contour
Truck Operation Signals
Back Up
- Thumbs up, jerking motion
- Alternatively, wave hand behind back
- Continue until destination reached
Move Forward
- Thumbs up, push forward
- Continue signal until destination reached
Stop
- Hand raised, palm facing truck
- Hold until acknowledged
Speed Up
- Raise and lower hand rapidly
- Close hand slightly for emphasis
Slow Down
- Extend hand, palm down
- Move hand up and down slowly
Safe Signaling Practices
Signaler Position
- Never stand directly behind equipment
- Maintain safe distance from moving parts
- Stand where ground is stable and level
- Position yourself in good lighting
- Stay out of the load's path
- Remain visible to the operator at all times
Communication Clarity
- Agree on signals before starting work
- Use only standard signals when possible
- Review uncommon signals before using them
- Establish backup communication method
- Clarify how to handle blind spots
Multiple Signalers
- Designate one primary signaler
- Establish clear handoff procedures
- Ensure operators know who has control
- Use vests or other identification
- Transfer responsibility only when necessary
Training Requirements
All signalers should be:
- Properly trained on standard signals
- Familiar with the specific equipment
- Knowledgeable about load limitations
- Aware of site-specific hazards
- Able to recognize dangerous situations
- Authorized by site management
- Capable of quick decision-making