On busy construction sites, clear communication can be the difference between safe lifting and serious accidents. When noise levels are high or radios fail, hand signals become the main language between the crane operator and the ground crew. This guide explains the most common crane hand signals used in the U.S., based on OSHA and ASME standards, so that every rigger, signal person, and operator can stay on the same page.
Why Hand Signals Matter
Crane operators often have limited visibility. They rely on trusted signal persons to guide lifts safely. Hand signals:
- Improve coordination
- Prevent miscommunication
- Reduce risk of dropped loads and accidents
- Help in emergency stops when something goes wrong
Only one designated signaler should direct the crane at a time unless there’s an emergency. Every signal must be clear, confident, and visible to the operator.
Who Can Signal?
OSHA requires that signal persons must be:
- Qualified through training or evaluation
- Familiar with standard hand signals
- Able to communicate clearly with the crane operator
They should also wear high-visibility vests or gloves so their hands are easy to see.
Basic Hand Signals Every Crane Operator Understands
Below are the standard hand signals used across most job sites:
1. Hoist (Lift the Load)
How to do it: Extend arm vertically upward. Point index finger up. Move hand in small circles.
When to use: Tells the operator to raise the hook and load upward.
2. Lower
How to do it: Extend arm downward. Point index finger down. Move hand in small circles.
When to use: Tells the operator to lower the hook and load.
3. Raise Boom
How to do it: Extend arm outward, then point thumb upward with closed fist.
When to use: Used when the operator needs to raise the crane’s boom (not just the load).
4. Lower Boom
How to do it: Extend arm outward, then point thumb downward with closed fist.
When to use: Used when the boom needs to be brought closer to the ground.
5. Swing Boom
How to do it: Extend arm and point with finger in direction the boom should swing.
When to use: Instructs the operator to rotate the boom left or right.
6. Stop (Emergency Stop)
How to do it: Extend both arms out horizontally, palms facing forward.
When to use: Immediately stops all crane movements. Use this if you see a hazard or potential accident.
7. Dog Everything (Stop All Motion)
How to do it: Clasp hands in front of your body.
When to use: Tells the operator to stop all crane actions and hold the current position.
8. Travel (Forward or Backward)
How to do it:
- Forward: Face the direction of travel. Extend both arms forward and move hands in a pushing motion.
- Backward: Extend arms backward and move hands toward body in a pulling motion.
When to use: For crawler or mobile cranes when moving the entire machine.
9. Telescope Boom In or Out
- Boom Out: Extend both arms forward. Close fists, then extend fingers outward repeatedly.
- Boom In: Extend arms forward. Close fists, then pull fingers inward repeatedly.
When to use: Adjusts the length of the boom.
10. Raise the Boom and Lower the Load
How to do it: Extend the right arm with thumb pointing up. Use left hand with index finger pointing down and moving in circles.
When to use: Tells the operator to raise the boom while simultaneously lowering the hook or load.
11. Lower the Boom and Raise the Load
How to do it: Right arm thumb points down. Left hand’s index finger points up, moving in circles.
When to use: A combined signal when the crane must reposition both the boom and hook.
12. Multiple Trolleys (Overhead Cranes)
How to do it: Hold up the number of fingers for the trolley you’re signaling to.
When to use: For bridge or gantry cranes with more than one trolley.
Best Practices for Using Hand Signals
- Face the operator: Always stay in view.
- Use full arm movements: Tiny signals can be missed.
- Avoid distractions: Don’t talk or multitask while signaling.
- Reconfirm understanding: If the operator looks confused, repeat or clarify.
- One signal at a time: Avoid mixing motions that can confuse the operator.
What If Signals Can’t Be Seen?
In cases of:
- Poor visibility
- Bad weather
- Long distances
Use two-way radios, but fall back to hand signals whenever possible. If communication breaks down, all crane movements must stop.
Training for Signal Persons
Signal persons should practice:
- Standardized hand signals
- Situational awareness
- Reading crane movement limitations
- Using radios as backup
Hands-on training and regular reviews help keep everyone alert and up to date.
Legal Guidelines in the USA
Both OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and ASME B30.5 provide legal rules for signal persons.
- OSHA 1926.1428: Signal persons must be evaluated by a qualified evaluator and demonstrate competency.
- Failure to follow standard signals can lead to serious violations or site shutdowns.
Final Thoughts
Hand signals are a powerful tool for safe crane operations. They don’t rely on batteries, don’t get static interference, and work across languages when used correctly.
Every crew member near a crane should know the basic hand signals, even if they aren’t the designated signal person. This shared knowledge keeps the site safer and helps everyone react faster when something goes wrong.
By mastering these signals, you make crane work faster, smoother, and far less risky.
