After with due diligence the location of the crane was determined, the installation was carried out and the necessary Checks, the crane crew, headed by with crane operator, you can start working with the crane. We talked about hand signals in our last article, but they are so common in lifting loads, whether it's a small about spider cabbage, or the world about the biggest ones, that it is worth looking at them in a little more detail.
The importance of arm markings
Technical progress, the proliferation of radio transmitters has not been able to displace hand signals from crane operation, they are still used today, in many cases in conjunction with voice communication. Separate arm signals are used for vertical and horizontal movement and for stopping the crane in an emergency.
However, the correct use of hand signals is essential for safe lifting and to avoid accidents, so only a person who is suitably qualified and certified to operate them may operate them. That is why the rental of cranes or other lifting equipment often includes the operator in addition to the machine.
Another important rule: only the designated controller can give hand signals to the operator, but anyone can give an emergency signal.
So it's a good idea for everyone to know at least the basic signs.
The basic arm markings
The operator and his/her controller communicate with each other using predefined hand signals, so there is no single canon, and there can be several versions of the signals.
Stop signals
Stop signals are the most important signals for crane operation, as they enable the person signalling to signal the crane operator as quickly as possible the need to stop moving and lifting.
- Shutdown: Extend one arm, palm down, touch your arm to your chest, then swing it back to the side. Alternatively, extend your right arm upwards, palm facing forwards.
- Emergency stop: Extend both arms palms down, then swing your arms back and forth, touch your chest, then back to the side.
- End of the workflow: Clasp both hands together and hold them in front of your navel.
Indications for vertical movement
These signals assist the operator in the vertical movement of the load and/or boom.
- Up: Point your right arm upwards, palm facing forward, while slowly circling your hand.
- Le: With arms down and palms facing in, slowly circle.
- Vertical distance: With arms outstretched, use both hands to show the distance.
Indications of horizontal movement
When lifting or moving the boom vertically, you can assist the operator with hand signals in the following ways:
- In advance: With your arms bent and palms facing up, slowly move your forearms towards your body.
- Back to: The former should make movements with the hands in the palms facing downwards and away from the body.
- To the right or left of the transmitter: With your hand extended horizontally to the side and palm facing down, make slow hand movements to the right or left.
- Horizontal distance indication: With your palms facing inwards, use your hands in front of your body to show the distance.
As indicated earlier, these are the usual signals, but the signal giver and the operator can communicate with each other using different gestures and signals, the key is consistency.
