The image above is from WWI of the U.S. Army, Belle West Signal Corp. The caption, “Range Finding” refers to artillery directions. That is not what we did in the field, but many times we felt like we were in a war zone.
David Bumgardner and I worked in the field together for ten years. Most days we didn’t talk because we both knew our duties and just did them. In the woods, when necessary, we yelled (as much as 1100 feet) using clear and concise words. But, some jobs demanded hand signals to communicate.
The job that comes to mind was staking elevations for a parking lot of a “Big Box store” distribution center. The sections (five total) of the parking lot we were staking measured 500 feet by 350 feet and ran beside a four lane highway. The noise was deafening from construction, deliveries, traffic, everything. We relied on hand signals to complete our job. Here is my poor sketch of the most common signals used by us and most land surveyors. I think I have all the words spelled right.
In my drawing, and in real life, the square of my drawing indicates a field book. One can see the white pages a long way off, either in dark woods or sunlit parking lots. These signals were given any day for any project.
David and I modified the signs for numbers (as you will notice in my next drawing compared to the attached video) to fit our personalities. Each time a numerical signal was given, the other person repeated the motion for verification. Then one of the usual signals would be given, such as good or no, or one not shown in my drawings, (finger, aimed a head and rotating around temple = what is wrong with you).
Here is my drawing of our number commands (minus the hat). The commands I don’t show are the signals for cut (waving a hand up and down below the waist) or fill (waving a hand up and down above the head). Each of our breaks (between commands) the hands were positioned at our sides.
There were other (unofficial) signals we gave just make sense and are easy to understand. Other signals took years of daily contact to hone for the exact meaning. 1) Turn sideways, kick dirt and throw down hat (words not suitable for family TV) . 2) Flail about and run away from instrument (Help, Yellow jackets). 3) large circles across middle of body (hungry). 4) The classic gesture also given by Referees during football games (Time out). Each signal was important to maintain a professional presence in the eyes of the public and make the work more efficient.
At the end of the day, the left arm would be extended and the right hand would tap on the wrist. This welcoming gesture meant, (see last signal).