1926.1420: Radio and Electronic Crane Signals
Devices used to send crane signals by radio, telephone or other electronic means must be tested on site before operations begin to make sure transmission is effective, clear and reliable. Signals must go through a dedicated channel, except that multiple cranes and signal persons may share one to coordinate, and when coordinating with trains or other equipment on or near railroad tracks. The operator must receive signals through a hands-free system.
Key takeaways
- 1926.1420 is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart CC).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.1420, "Signals—radio, telephone or other electronic transmission of signals", is an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart CC). It has 5 numbered paragraphs. The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
Show the full text of 1926.1420 (5 paragraphs)
(a) The device(s) used to transmit signals must be tested on site before beginning operations to ensure that the signal transmission is effective, clear, and reliable.
(b) Signal transmission must be through a dedicated channel, except:
(1) Multiple cranes/derricks and one or more signal persons may share a dedicated channel for the purpose of coordinating operations.
(2) Where a crane is being operated on or adjacent to railroad tracks, and the actions of the crane operator need to be coordinated with the movement of other equipment or trains on the same or adjacent tracks.
(c) The operator's reception of signals must be by a hands-free system.
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15.
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OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.1420.
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Frequently asked questions
When must electronic signal devices be tested?
On site before beginning operations, to make sure signal transmission is effective, clear and reliable.
Can more than one crane share a signal channel?
Yes. Multiple cranes/derricks and one or more signal persons may share a dedicated channel to coordinate operations.
How must the operator receive signals?
Through a hands-free system.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.1420 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.