On a busy jobsite, it is natural for people to want to help. Someone notices the load drifting. Another person thinks the operator did not hear the last signal. A third person jumps in to try to speed things up.
When it comes to crane and lifting operations, extra voices do not mean extra safety.
In fact, having more than one person giving signals can quickly create confusion, hesitation, or the wrong movement at the wrong time. That is when close calls and incidents happen.
The Short Answer
Only the designated signalperson should give signals during a lift.
This does not mean others cannot speak up. It means all signals to the operator must be clear, consistent, and come from one qualified point of control.
Why This Matters
During a lift, the operator is monitoring the load, the boom, the radius, surrounding conditions, and incoming direction. When signals come from multiple people, the risk increases quickly.
Common hazards include:
-
Mixed signals leading to incorrect movement, which can shift the load, snag structures, or enter hazard zones
-
Operator hesitation caused by conflicting signals, allowing the load to drift, spin, or become unstable
-
Breakdown of the communication plan, especially when visibility is limited
Clear communication is not optional during lifting operations. It is critical.
What If Someone Sees a Hazard?
This is an important distinction.
Anyone on the jobsite can and should call a STOP if they see an unsafe condition.
Once the lift is paused and the hazard is corrected, signal direction must return to the designated signalperson. This keeps control clear and prevents confusion from restarting the lift.
A simple rule many crews follow:
One person gives signals. Everyone watches for hazards. Anyone can stop the job.
Where Jobsites Commonly Run Into Trouble
These situations often turn good intentions into real risk:
-
Two workers on opposite sides of the load signaling at the same time
-
A supervisor signaling while a signalperson is already assigned
-
A worker signaling because the lift feels slow
-
Confusion between hand signals and radio communication without a clear plan
If you have ever heard someone shout conflicting directions during a lift, you have already seen how quickly things can unravel.
Best Practice: Make Roles Obvious Before the Lift
Before any lift begins, the crew should clearly understand:
-
Who the designated signalperson is
-
What communication method will be used
-
Where the signalperson will be positioned
-
The stop work process
-
Who takes over if the signalperson loses sight of the load
Clear roles reduce confusion. Confusion is where incidents happen.
Why Qualified Signalperson Training Matters
A qualified signalperson is more than someone who knows basic hand signals.
Proper training helps signalpersons:
-
Communicate clearly under pressure
-
Use correct signals and timing
-
Manage blind picks and limited visibility
-
Coordinate effectively with riggers and operators
-
Follow lift plans and site-specific procedures
Strong signalperson training supports safer lifts and more confident crews.
Questions or Need Training?
If you have questions about signalperson responsibilities, lift planning, or would like to schedule signalperson or crane safety training, contact us. Our team can help review your procedures and ensure your crews are trained and aligned before the next lift.
