NCCCO Signals and Communication Standards

Question 1

Under OSHA 1926.1419, when is a signal person required on a crane operation?

Accepted Answer

When the operator cannot see the load or path of travel clearly throughout the entire lift, or when working near power lines

Answer

Whenever more than two workers are present on the jobsite

Answer

Only when the load exceeds 75% of rated capacity

Answer

When the crane boom exceeds 100 feet in length

Question 2

What signal standard must be used on a construction site where OSHA 1926 Subpart CC applies?

Accepted Answer

ASME B30.5 standard hand signals, radio communication, or direct voice communication — all parties must agree on the system before operations begin

Answer

Only ANSI Z535 color-coded flag signals

Answer

Any mutually understood signal system, with no pre-agreement required

Answer

Radio communication is mandatory — hand signals are not permitted under Subpart CC

Question 3

The ASME B30.5 hand signal for emergency stop uses which motion?

Accepted Answer

Both forearms crossed and re-crossed rapidly, indicating immediate cessation of all crane movement

Answer

A single raised fist held stationary

Answer

Rapid up-and-down motion of one hand at waist level

Answer

Both hands pointing downward toward the ground

Question 4

A signal person qualifies to direct crane operations under OSHA 1926.1428 only when they:

Accepted Answer

Are evaluated by a qualified evaluator and found to know the standard signals and have a basic understanding of crane operations and hazards

Answer

Hold a current NCCCO signal person certification only

Answer

Are employed by the crane contractor, not the general contractor

Answer

Have at least five years of construction experience in any trade

Question 5

During a pick, the signal person gives a 'lower boom' signal but the operator believes this will swing the load into a structure. What should the operator do?

Accepted Answer

Stop all motion, signal 'stop,' and communicate with the signal person to discuss the concern before proceeding

Answer

Ignore the signal and continue — the operator has authority to override any signal

Answer

Lower the boom slowly and see if the load clears the structure

Answer

Raise the hook to gain clearance, then lower the boom as signaled

Question 6

When radio communication is used between a signal person and a crane operator, what practice ensures safe command clarity?

Accepted Answer

The operator should repeat back each command to confirm understanding before executing the motion

Answer

The operator should act immediately on every radio command to minimize delays

Answer

Radio commands should be given only in code to avoid eavesdropping

Answer

Only the operator may initiate radio contact — the signal person must wait to respond