What type of signal is commonly used to indicate a lift should begin?

A standard hand signal is commonly used to indicate that a lift should begin because it provides a clear and universally understood method of communication between the operator of the hoisting equipment and ground personnel. This method is particularly useful in noisy environments where verbal commands may not be heard, ensuring safety and clarity in operations.

Hand signals are established and standardized by organizations such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These signals are designed to communicate specific actions, such as starting or stopping a lift, thereby minimizing the risk of miscommunication and accidents. Using hand signals promotes safety on site by allowing for quick and efficient communication without the need for verbal exchanges that might be compromised by distance or background noise.

In contrast, while verbal commands can be effective in calmer environments, they are less reliable in situations where sound may be obfuscated. A whistle and light signals are also used but are typically situational; they may serve as secondary signals or for specific scenarios rather than as the primary method for indicating that a lift should commence.