RSP Signal Person Responsibilities & Communication 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the ASME/ANSI standard hand signal for 'move slowly' require the signal person to do?
- Wave both arms slowly over their head
- Place one hand motionless above the moving hand signal (Correct answer)
- Point in the direction of movement with one finger
- Cross both arms in front of the body
Correct answer: Place one hand motionless above the moving hand signal
The 'move slowly' signal is given by placing a stationary hand above the hand giving the directional motion signal.
Question 2: Which signal indicates 'hoist'?
- Both fists placed together in front of the chest
- With forearm vertical, forefinger pointing up, move hand in small horizontal circles (Correct answer)
- Extend arms horizontally with thumbs pointing up
- Place open hand above the head, palm up
Correct answer: With forearm vertical, forefinger pointing up, move hand in small horizontal circles
The standard 'hoist' signal is a vertical forearm with the index finger pointing up while moving the hand in small horizontal circles.
Question 3: A signal person is stationed where they cannot maintain visual contact with both the operator and the load simultaneously. What is the correct procedure?
- The signal person should do their best by alternating between views
- Use a relay person or radio communication to bridge the gap (Correct answer)
- The lift may proceed without a signal person in this situation
- Reposition the crane so the operator can see the load directly
Correct answer: Use a relay person or radio communication to bridge the gap
When a single signal person cannot see both the operator and the load, a relay person or radio communication system must be used.
Question 4: What is the standard hand signal for 'lower'?
- With arm extended downward, forefinger pointing down, move hand in small horizontal circles (Correct answer)
- Both hands held flat, palms facing down, moved slowly downward
- Thumbs pointing downward on both hands
- One hand extended horizontally with palm facing down
Correct answer: With arm extended downward, forefinger pointing down, move hand in small horizontal circles
The 'lower' signal mirrors the 'hoist' signal but with the arm pointing down, moving in small horizontal circles.
Question 5: When using radio communication during crane operations, what must a signal person do before giving a movement command?
- Wait for the operator to confirm they are ready to receive
- Identify themselves and confirm the operator can hear clearly (Correct answer)
- State the load weight before each command
- Obtain approval from the site supervisor for each movement
Correct answer: Identify themselves and confirm the operator can hear clearly
Before giving radio movement commands, the signal person must identify themselves and confirm clear communication with the operator.
Question 6: What action should a signal person take if the operator does not respond to a stop signal?
- Repeat the stop signal more vigorously and contact a supervisor immediately (Correct answer)
- Assume the operator has stopped and wait 30 seconds
- Move closer to the cab to get the operator's attention
- Signal other workers to evacuate the area and document the incident
Correct answer: Repeat the stop signal more vigorously and contact a supervisor immediately
If a stop signal is ignored, the signal person must repeat the signal urgently and immediately escalate to a supervisor.
Question 7: Which of the following best describes the signal person's role regarding unauthorized personnel in the load path?
- Document the names of unauthorized personnel for reporting later
- Only intervene if asked to do so by the site supervisor
- Immediately stop the lift and ensure unauthorized personnel clear the area (Correct answer)
- Warn unauthorized personnel verbally but allow the lift to proceed if they acknowledge
Correct answer: Immediately stop the lift and ensure unauthorized personnel clear the area
The signal person must immediately stop the lift if unauthorized personnel enter the load path, regardless of who they are.
RSP Signal Person Responsibilities & Communication 3
What does the ASME/ANSI standard hand signal for 'move slowly' require the signal person to do?