Definition of "handsignalman"

The 12.25 train travelled without incident over the single line and the pilotman saw the Vange handsignalman's green flag from about ½ mile away.

1961 December, “Talking of Trains: Derailment near Laindon”, in Trains Illustrated, page 717

[...] 1. Handsignalmen, where needed, ought to wear a conspicuous orange/yellow cape (like many road workmen) to draw attention to them.

1964 April, “Letters: Rethinking emergency procedures”, in Modern Railways, page 274