Reverse signal alarms on construction vehicles

July 12, 1993

Mr. Robert F. Knapp
R.F. Knapp Company
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Knapp:

This is in response to your May 12 letter requesting compliance determinations for your "Radar Backup Alarm System 202" as it relates to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 29 CFR 1926.601(b)(4)(i). That provision addresses reverse signal alarms for motor vehicles. I apologize for the delay in responding to this inquiry, however, with regard to your previous requests, our records show that on June 29, 1988, the National Office did respond to your April 15, 1988 letter forwarded from the San Francisco Regional Office. (See enclosure)

Please be advised that OSHA does not approve nor endorse products. The variable working conditions at jobsites and possible alterations or misapplication of an otherwise safe product could easily create a hazardous condition beyond the control of the manufacturer. However, we have reviewed the product data enclosed with your letter and it appears that if the "System 202" immediately activates an external reverse signal alarm at the rear of the vehicle when put in reverse gear, and provides adequate warning to persons in the path of the vehicle, and to persons walking towards the path of the vehicle in time to avoid contact, it would comply with the intent of the above mentioned standard.

Also, please be advised that we are forwarding a copy of your letter to the Directorate of Safety Standards Programs for evaluation of the need for possible revision of the standards addressing reverse signal alarms.

If we can be of any further assistance, please contact me or Mr. Dale Cavanaugh of my staff at (202) 219-8136.

Sincerely,
Roy F. Gurnham, P.E., Esq. Director
Office of Construction and Maritime
Compliance Assistance

[Earlier OSHA correspondence and requester materials reproduced on OSHA page; omitted here.]