Signal Person Qualification

When the operator can’t see the load or the path it travels, the signal person becomes the operator’s eyes. In construction, OSHA requires that person to be qualified, tested and documented, not just whoever happens to be nearby.

• Signal persons
• Riggers
• Crane operators

When a signal person is required

• The point of operation (where the load is being picked or placed) isn’t in full view of the operator.
• The operator’s view in the direction the crane is traveling is blocked.
• The operator or the person handling the load decides one is needed because of site-specific safety concerns.

What a qualified signal person must have

• Knowledge and understanding of the type of signals used (hand, voice, radio)
• Competence in using those signals
• A basic understanding of how the crane works and its limits, including swinging and stopping loads and boom deflection from hoisting
• Knowledge of the OSHA requirements on signals and signal persons
• Passing an oral or written test and a practical test

How they’re qualified

• Third-party qualified evaluator: an outside organization tests and documents the qualification. This is portable between employers.
• Employer’s qualified evaluator: a person the employer designates evaluates the signal person. This qualification isn’t portable to another employer.
• Documentation must be available at the site.
• If a signal person isn’t performing correctly, they must stop and be re-evaluated before signaling again.

Good signaling practices

• Agree on the signals with the operator before the lift starts.
• Stand where the operator can see you clearly and you can see the load and its path.
• Wear high-visibility clothing or gloves.
• Give one signal at a time, clearly. Only one person signals at a time, except for stop.
• Keep everyone out from under the load.
• Use the standard hand signal chart posted on the crane. See Crane Hand Signals.

Last updated: October 2, 2026