Clear Communication on Site

Many serious accidents begin with a misunderstanding: "I thought you said..." Job sites are noisy, busy and full of people from different crews and languages. A few simple habits make messages clearer and keep people alive.

• All Workers
• Foremen
• Operators

Closed-loop communication

1. Send a short, specific message: who, what, where and when.
2. Repeat back what you heard in your own words.
3. Confirm the sender says "yes, that's right," or corrects it.

Example: "Mike, lower the load 2 feet and hold." "Lowering 2 feet and holding." "Correct." Closed loops are standard in crane work, emergency response and hospitals.

Radios

• Use plain words, not slang. Say the name of the person you are calling and your own.
• Keep messages short. Say "stop" clearly in emergencies; "stop" is understood by everyone. See Jobsite Radios.
• Use agreed signals and a single signal person for lifts. See Crane Hand Signals.
• Do not talk on the radio while operating dangerous tasks if it distracts you.

Noise and distance

• Move closer, make eye contact and use gestures or written notes when it is too loud.
• Use hand signals that everyone knows, and teach new workers.
• Wear hearing protection that allows communication when possible. See Electronic Hearing Protection.
• Use spotters for vehicles and equipment. See Backing & Spotters.

Language and culture

• Provide training and signs in the languages workers speak. See Multilingual Crews.
• Use pictures, demonstrations and a bilingual lead who can translate.
• Ask people to show you what they will do, not just say "yes."

Handoffs and speaking up

• At shift change, share what was done, what is unfinished and any hazards. See Shift Handovers
• Ask questions when you are unsure. No one should be criticized for asking
• If something looks unsafe, say so and use stop-work authority. See Stop-Work Authority
• Supervisors: listen first, thank people who raise concerns, and follow up

Last updated: October 8, 2026