During a lift, what is the recommended method for ensuring clear communication between riggers and the crane/hoist operator?

• A. Yell instructions loudly to the entire crew.
• B. Use standard hand signals or radios; designate a signal person and confirm the plan before starting.
• C. Rely on memory of the plan without ongoing communication.
• D. Only communicate after the lift is complete.

Answer: (B)

Clear and safe lift operations hinge on unambiguous, two-way communication that works regardless of noise or distance. Using standard hand signals or radios, with a designated signal person and a plan confirmed before starting, provides that level of clarity. Standard hand signals ensure the crane operator and the signal person interpret each command the same way, reducing the chance of miscommunication, while radios offer a reliable channel when visibility is limited or the environment is loud. The signal person becomes the single point of communication for the lift, which helps keep messages focused and avoids conflicting instructions from multiple voices. Confirming the plan before you lift makes sure everyone understands roles, load path, lift points, directions, limits, and emergency signals, so the crew can respond consistently if something changes.

Yelling instructions to the entire crew can lead to mishearing or missed commands in a noisy worksite. Relying on memory without ongoing communication ignores real-time changes and increases risk. Waiting to communicate until after the lift removes critical timing for decisions and responses, making it harder to control the load safely.