Frequently Asked Questions

Strobe lights and/or backup alarms are not required on all forklift trucks.

The determination as to whether or not these devices are required rests with the user (the employer).

The user must determine if operating conditions require that the forklift truck be equipped with strobe lights and/or backup alarms in addition to a horn which is required according to the ANSI and OSHA Standards.

The user is also responsible maintaining these devices in proper operating condition in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Thus, if you determine that operating conditions require that your forklift truck be equipped with a backup alarm in order to insure safe operation, you must provide for and install a backup alarm on your forklift truck and maintain it in proper operating condition at all times when the forklift is in operation.

Some examples of operating conditions that require that strobe lights and/or backup alarms be in use on forklift trucks include:

• high ambient noise levels from other machinery or equipment,
• operating areas of the forklift being shared with pedestrians,
• forklift trucks operating in close proximity to each other,
• forklift trucks operating in close proximity to pedestrians with impaired hearing or who wear hearing protection,
• forklift trucks that share operating space with overhead cranes,
• forklift trucks operating in areas where visibility is obstructed for either the forklift operator or pedestrians.

Survey your workplace for equipment and pedestrian close encounter hazards and use strobe lights and/or backup alarms to reduce the risks associated with those hazards. In addition, make those close encounter hazards a highlight of both your operator and pedestrian training programs.