You must: • Make sure signal systems, whether radio or hand signals, are checked before hoisting the load:
– When using hand signals, use those shown in Figure 1.
• Make sure workers on the ground do
either of the following before touching the suspended load:
– Use a ground device to safely discharge any static charge;
OR – Put on and wear rubber gloves.
• Make sure there are enough employees for safe loading and unloading operations.
• Make sure constant communications are maintained between the pilot and signal person:
– The signal person must be distinctly recognizable from other ground personnel.
HELICOPTER HAND SIGNALS  | |  |
| Left arm extended horizontally; right arm sweeps upward to position over. | | The signal "Hold" is executed by placing arms over head with clenched fists. |
 | |  |
| Right arm extended horizontally; left sweeps upward to position over head. | | Right hand behind back; left hand pointing up. |
 | |  |
| Combination of arm and hand movement in a collecting motion pulling toward head. | | Arms crossed in front of body and pointing downward. |
 | |  |
| Hands above arm, palms out using a noticeable showing motion. | | Arms extended, palms up; arms sweeping up. |
 | |  |
| Left arm held down away from body. Right arm cuts across left arm in a slashing movement from above. | | Arms extended, palms down; arms sweeping down. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 04-09-099, § 296-829-40020, filed 4/20/04, effective 9/1/04.]