ISO 23853-2023 PDF

Full title and description

ISO 23853:2023 — Cranes — Training of slingers and signallers. This International Standard specifies the minimum training required for trainee crane slingers and crane signallers to develop basic slinging skills and to provide the knowledge necessary to achieve the competency expected of slingers and signallers as defined in ISO 15513.

Abstract

ISO 23853:2023 sets out minimum training content, learning outcomes and assessment considerations for personnel who prepare and signal loads moved by cranes (slingers and signallers). The standard covers theoretical knowledge and practical training designed to ensure safe, competent performance in slinging and signalling tasks, with the aim of reducing lifting-related incidents and supporting consistent competence recognition.

General information

• Status: Published
• Publication date: 31 August 2023
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
• ICS / categories: 03.100.30 (Management of human resources); 53.020.20 (Cranes)
• Edition / version: Edition 3 (2023)
• Number of pages: 19

Scope

This document specifies the minimum training to be given to trainee crane slingers and crane signallers to develop the basic slinging skills and to impart the requisite knowledge for the competency required for slingers and signallers as defined in ISO 15513. It addresses the essential topics, practical exercises and assessment principles needed for routine slinging and signalling operations; it does not cover specialised operations (e.g., man‑lifting, pile‑driving) for which additional training may be required.

Key topics and requirements

• Minimum training objectives and learning outcomes for slingers and signallers.
• Theoretical knowledge: types of lifting equipment and accessories, sling selection, load characteristics (mass, centre of gravity), hitch types and their effects.
• Practical skills: correct application of slings and attachments, preparing loads, rigging techniques and safe handling during lifts.
• Signalling: standard hand signals, use of radio and other communication methods, positioning of signallers, and signalling when visibility or line‑of‑sight is restricted.
• Risk assessment and planning: pre‑lift checks, site hazards, exclusion zones and load path control.
• Safety and legal responsibilities: roles of slingers, signallers and crane operators; personal protective equipment and fitness for duty.
• Assessment and verification: guidance on practical and theoretical assessment, record keeping and criteria for demonstrating competence (aligned with ISO 15513).
• Emergency procedures and managing abnormal situations during lifting operations.

Typical use and users

Employers, training organisations, safety managers, crane operators, slingers and signallers use this standard to design, deliver and assess training programmes that meet international minimum expectations. It is also used by certification bodies, principal contractors and site supervisors to define competency requirements and to harmonise training across organisations and projects.

Related standards

Key related documents include ISO 15513 (competency requirements for crane operators, slingers, signallers and assessors), ISO 12480‑1 (safe use of cranes — general), ISO 9926 (training of crane drivers/operators) and other ISO/TC 96 publications covering crane safety and training. National regulations and industry codes of practice on lifting operations should be consulted alongside this standard.

Keywords

cranes, slingers, signallers, training, slinging, signalling, lifting operations, competence, assessment, rigging, crane safety

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 23853:2023 is an international standard that specifies the minimum training requirements for crane slingers and signallers to achieve basic competence in slinging and signalling tasks.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the minimum theoretical topics and practical skills that training programmes should include (e.g., sling selection, rigging, hand signals, communication, pre‑lift checks, risk assessment and assessment of competence). It does not replace specialised training for non‑routine or specialist lifts.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Training providers, employers, safety and training managers, assessors, certification bodies and personnel involved in lifting operations (slingers, signallers and crane operators) use it to develop and evaluate training and competency.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ISO 23853:2023 is the current edition published on 31 August 2023. It supersedes the previous edition ISO 23853:2018.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes. It forms part of ISO's body of crane‑related standards produced by ISO/TC 96 (Cranes) and is intended to be used with other related standards on crane safety and competency, notably ISO 15513 and ISO 12480‑1.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: slingers, signallers, crane training, slinging, signalling, rigging, lifting operations, competence, assessment, crane safety.