Arm and Hand Signals

Question 1

The instrumentman uses this signal to direct the rodman to move either to the left or to the right.

Answer 1

Move to right or left

Question 2

The right or left hand is raised up and is held for a moment in a vertical position.

Answer 2

Give a sight

Question 3

The levelman extends both arms horizontally and moves them up or down. When both arms are brought still and horizontal it is meant to transmit a command to ‘hold steady’.

Answer 3

All right

Question 4

The rodman raises the rod and holds it in a horizontal position over his head.

Answer 4

This is a point

Question 5

The instrumentman uses this signal to direct the rodman to move back farther. He transmits the command by raising his right hand with the palm facing toward the rodman and then moving it into a horizontal position with his palm faced down.

Answer 5

Move back

Question 6

When a new setup of the level is desired, the chief of party signals the instrumentman by first extending both arms downward then raising them up quickly as though an object is being lifted.

Answer 6

Pick up instruments

Question 7

The instrumentman motions to the rodman by either raising his arm above his shoulder to raise the rod, or by dropping his arm below his waist to lower the target.

Answer 7

Raise (or lower) target

Question 8

The chief of party or the instrumentman uses this signal to direct any member of the survey party to come in or assemble. It is executed by moving the arm into a circular motion starting from below the waist to the front of his face.

Answer 8

Come in

Question 9

The hand is extended vertically above the head and moved slowly in the direction it is desired to plumb the rod.

Answer 9

Plumb the rod

Question 10

To establish a turning point, the arm is swung slowly in a circle above the end.

Answer 10

Establish a turning point

Question 11

To identify a turning point, the leveling rod (or range pole) is raised overhead in a horizontal position. It is then lowered into a vertical position and held on the point.

Answer 11

This is a turning point

Question 12

The instrumentman holds his arm above his head and continuously waves it back and forth.

Answer 12

Wave the rod

Question 13

This is a signal given out by the instrumentman to direct the rodman to face the rod towards the line of sight. It is executed by raising both arms above the head and twisting both hands back and forth.

Answer 13

Face the rod

Question 14

The command to reverse the rod is transmitted to the rodman by extending the arms above the head and slowly rotating both arms in a circular motion towards one side of the body.

Answer 14

Reverse the rod

Question 15

From a position where both arms are extended horizontally, the arms are slowly bent on the elbows and the hands raised into a vertical position.

Answer 15

Move forward

Question 16

To give the signal to use the long rod, the instrumentman extends both arms downward then slowly raises it over his head.

Answer 16

Use the long rod