Of all the jobs on a construction site, a Slinger Signaller is an important one. They contribute to the safety and security of the construction team and reduce risks on the job site. Crane accidents can be deadly, and Slinger Signallers are in place to reduce the risk of a problem.
It’s a rewarding job, but Slinger Signaller’s must have the correct training to do the job well. If you are interested in becoming a Slinger Signaller, read on for more information on Slinger Signaller courses available.
What is a Slinger Signaller?
A Slinger Signaller is responsible for relaying information to the Crane Operator. Often the Crane Operator’s view is obstructed, meaning that they may not see a potential hazard. Slinger Signallers communicate with hand signals, allowing the Crane Operator to function safely even when they cannot see portions of the job site.
The hand signals used are standardised, and laid out in BS 7121 and the Health and Safety (Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. Specific job sites may require further signals. It’s important that Slinger Signallers know these signs and can perform them clearly and correctly, to avoid confusion with the Crane Operator. Slinger Signallers are also responsible for connecting lifting accessories to the crane.
If conditions such as rain or fog make visibility difficult, lit batons (similar to what you would see on an airport runway) can assist. Increasingly two-way radios are being used when a line of sight cannot be maintained between the Crane Operator and the Slinger Signaller. However, in all circumstances, the Slinger Signaller has the authority to halt operations on the job site if they feel the conditions are not safe.
Slinger Signaller Training
The Slinger Signaller is responsible not only for their own safety, but the safety and security of the entire job site. It’s an essential role, highly valued on the job site, that comes with a large amount of responsibility.
Slinger Signallers must be able to communicate clearly with the Crane Operator and operate in a safe manner. As such, all training will focus on:
Slinger Signaller Courses
When training as a Slinger Signaller, it’s crucial to not only learn the theory behind the job, but obtain practical experience as well. The CPCS A40a Slinger Signaller (All Duties) Course provides both a comprehensive practical test, along with a written theory test. There is also a CPCS A40b Slinger Signaller (Static Duties) Course available too.
Upon successful completion of the tests, you will be issued a CPCS Red Trained Operator Card. This can then be used to obtain the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card. For more information on the CPCS Courses that Easybook Training offers, contact the free national helpline 7 days a week at 01892 543000.