During a lifting operation, which team member should be in charge of signaling?

The lift manager is responsible for overseeing the entire lifting operation and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. This role includes being in charge of signaling to the crane operator to facilitate effective communication during the lift. Clear signals are critical for the safety and efficiency of the operation, as they guide the operator in performing the lift correctly and safely.

The lift manager typically has a comprehensive understanding of the lifting plan and is in a position to observe the entire operation from a vantage point. By delegating the signaling responsibility to the lift manager, it ensures that the signals given are accurate and reflective of the current situation, thus minimizing the risk of miscommunication, which could lead to accidents.

In contrast, while the crane operator could signal, their primary focus should be on operating the crane without distractions. The ground crew member closest to the load may not have the overview needed to signal effectively in all situations, as they might be focused on their immediate tasks. Similarly, the safety officer, while essential for maintaining safety protocols, typically does not engage in direct operational signaling during the lift.