Who must maintain direct communication while hoisting employees in a personnel platform?

Direct communication between the signalman and the operator is crucial during the hoisting of employees in a personnel platform to ensure safety and accuracy. The signalman is responsible for providing clear instructions and alerts regarding the movement of the load and the personnel, while the operator needs to respond to those signals promptly to avoid accidents. This direct line of communication helps to facilitate immediate responses to changing conditions and to ensure all safety protocols are followed during the lifting process.

The other roles mentioned, such as the supervisor or site manager, may have important responsibilities, but they do not have the same immediate need for communication during the actual hoisting. The supervisor or safety officer might be involved in overall safety management or oversight, but the hands-on communication required to coordinate the lift happens exclusively between the signalman and the operator. This focused communication ensures that everyone involved in the hoisting operation is on the same page, ultimately leading to a safer work environment.