Hand Signals

The use of standard terminology and hand signals is one step that can reduce the potential for miscommunication in the field.

Waterjetting

The WJTA Industry Best Practices for the Use of High Pressure Waterjetting Equipment 2021 Second Edition introduced a scheme of standardized hand signals:

8.8.1 Hand Signals - shall be defined as follows for each operation:

Turn on suction water
a. Turn on Suction Water
Pressure Up (hand is held high in the air)
b. Pressure Up (hand is held high in the air)
Increase Pressure by 1,000 psi
c. Increase Pressure by 1,000 psi

Decrease Pressure by 1,000 psi
d. Decrease Pressure by 1,000 psi
Cut Pressure, Shut Down System
e. Cut Pressure, Shut Down System