1926.1421: Crane Voice Signals
Before operations begin, the operator, signal person and lift director (if any) must agree on the voice signals to be used, and meet again only if a worker is added or substituted, signals are confusing or a signal changes. Each voice signal must give function, direction, distance and/or speed, then function and stop command, and these workers must communicate effectively in the language used.
Key takeaways
- 1926.1421 is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart CC).
- OSHA cited it 3 times in the last 3 years, in 3 inspections, with $11,916 in current penalties.
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.1421, "Signals—voice signals—additional requirements", is an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart CC). It has 3 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 1926.1421 (3 paragraphs)
(a) Prior to beginning operations, the operator, signal person and lift director (if there is one), must contact each other and agree on the voice signals that will be used. Once the voice signals are agreed upon, these workers need not meet again to discuss voice signals unless another worker is added or substituted, there is confusion about the voice signals, or a voice signal is to be changed. 3 citations
(b) Each voice signal must contain the following three elements, given in the following order: function (such as hoist, boom, etc.), direction; distance and/or speed; function, stop command.
(c) The operator, signal person and lift director (if there is one), must be able to effectively communicate in the language used.
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15.
Where and how often it was cited
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.1421, plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.1421.
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Frequently asked questions
When must voice signals be agreed on?
Prior to beginning operations.
What order must a voice signal follow?
Function, direction, distance and/or speed, then function, stop command.
When must they meet again?
When another worker is added or substituted, there is confusion, or a voice signal is to be changed.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.1421 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-19
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.