Crane Hand Signal Standard
Standard crane hand signals are the prescribed visual gestures used between a signaller and crane operator to control hoisting operations when verbal communication is unreliable. In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC requires the signals in Figure 15-1 of OHS Regulation Part 15 for actions like hoist, lower, swing, stop, emergency stop, dog everything, and slow movement.
On a shop floor, these signals are applied when the operator's line of sight is blocked by the load or structure, or when a designated signaller directs lifts, travel, or landings. The crew uses a single, unambiguous method for overhead crane, gantry crane, or hoist movement. The slow/controlled motion signal involves placing one hand motionless in front of the hand giving the motion signal. This ensures safe load control when direct verbal communication is not reliable.
- Using nonstandard or improvised signals, which creates ambiguity and noncompliance with WorkSafeBC Figure 15-1.
- No posted signal chart or poor worker familiarity, violating OSHA requirements for posting charts on equipment or in the hoisting area.
- No clear signaller control or poor sightline management, leading to unsafe unsignalled motion risk.
When are hand signals mandatory?
When hand signals are chosen as the communication method for crane/hoist control, the standard signal set must be used; in BC that means WorkSafeBC Figure 15-1.
Is 'dog everything' a stop signal?
In CCOHS guidance, 'dog everything' means pause or hold the operation, not emergency stop.
What is the difference between stop and emergency stop?
OSHA's standard distinguishes STOP from EMERGENCY STOP; emergency stop uses both arms extended horizontally and swung back and forth, while stop uses a single arm extended horizontally and swung back and forth.