When the conveyance is ready to move, how many bell signals are given to the hoist operator, and how many times must he acknowledge by returning the same signal?

• A. Five signals; acknowledge by returning the same signal
• B. Three signals; acknowledge twice
• C. Four signals; acknowledge once
• D. Six signals; acknowledge three times

Answer: (A)

Clear two-way communication is essential for safe hoist operations. When the conveyance is ready to move, the signaler gives five bell signals to the hoist operator. The operator then acknowledges each cue by returning the same signal, doing so five times in total. This back-and-forth pattern provides a loud, clear confirmation that the operator has heard and understood every cue, which helps prevent miscommunication in the often noisy mine environment.