Basic dog hand signals how to#

With the left or right arm extended out and parallel to the ground, with the palm down, point the forefinger in the desired direction. Move the Tines in the Direction I’m Pointing With the right arm extended and the thumb pointing down toward the ground, lower the arm repeatedly, until the mast reaches the desired angle. Do the motion slowly so the operator can mirror you and stop at the same moment you stop making this signal. With the forearm of the right arm vertical to the ground and the thumb extended, jerk the thumb over the right shoulder. With the right arm extended out and parallel to the ground, point the palm down and lower the arm repeatedly until the tines are lowered at the appropriate level for directing the next sequence of motions. Continue the circular motion for as long as you want the operator to continue to raise the tines. With the forearm of your right hand vertical to the ground and the forefinger pointing up, move the hand in a small horizontal circle. These are the seven basic forklift hand signals that are commonly used in work environments around the globe. The signals used to direct forklifts are somehow similar to the ones used for directing cranes.

The operator should respond to this signal regardless of who is giving it, under the assumption that further action might result in material damage or somebody being hurt. Only one spotter should attempt to direct the operator and the operator should take direction from that spotter only. There should always be an agreement about who is the designated spotter.

Basic dog hand signals how to#

Some companies have these cards stuck on the forklift, in the operator's line of sight, while others prefer posters placed in the areas where forklifts operate (learn How to Master the Science of Sign Visibility). It is good practice to ensure posters or cards demonstrating the hand signals are posted on site. This will not only prevent miscommunication between these employees but will also provide consistency when working in situations involving multiple employers or when hiring new (and trained) employees (find out How to Use Standard Work Instructions to Improve Workplace Safety). To ensure consistency, both the operator and the spotter should learn and memorize the OSHA-approved signals for directing forklifts. Spotters need to use a standardized set of hand signals that the operator can easily recognize and interpret.