Which hand signal is used to lower a load?

Which hand signal is used to lower a load?

• A. Thumbs up
• B. Fist raised
• C. Index finger pointed down and rotating
• D. Hand signal is raised palm

Answer: (C)

Knowing the standard hand signals used in hoisting operations is essential for safe, coordinated work. To lower a load, the signal uses an index finger pointed downward with a downward rotating motion. This specific movement clearly communicates the direction and action of descent, making it unmistakable to the operator. Other gestures serve different commands—thumbs up is generally a go-ahead or acknowledgment, a raised fist often means stop or hold, and a raised palm is a stop/cease signal—so they wouldn’t convey the intended action of lowering. The downward-rotating finger gesture is distinct and intuitive for guiding the load safely downward.

Knowing the standard hand signals used in hoisting operations is essential for safe, coordinated work. To lower a load, the signal uses an index finger pointed downward with a downward rotating motion. This specific movement clearly communicates the direction and action of descent, making it unmistakable to the operator. Other gestures serve different commands—thumbs up is generally a go-ahead or acknowledgment, a raised fist often means stop or hold, and a raised palm is a stop/cease signal—so they wouldn’t convey the intended action of lowering. The downward-rotating finger gesture is distinct and intuitive for guiding the load safely downward.