When is a signalperson required during a lift?

A signalperson is essential in situations where the load being lifted is not within the operator's full view. This is critical for safety and effective communication on a job site. Without a clear line of sight, the operator might not be able to accurately gauge the movement of the load, which increases the risk of accidents. The signalperson acts as an intermediary, providing clear signals to guide the operator, ensuring safe maneuvers around obstacles and maintaining awareness of the surroundings.

In scenarios where the operator can see the load, either directly or through the use of supporting technology such as cameras, the need for a signalperson can be minimized. Additionally, the weight of the load alone does not necessitate a signalperson; rather, it is the visibility issue that mandates having someone to provide necessary signals. While communicating signals is important, simply giving signals does not inherently require the presence of a signalperson if the operator is fully aware of their surroundings and the load. Hence, the primary reason a signalperson is required is when the load is obscured from the operator's view.