Regulations in the United States
Back-up beepers or an observer are required by OSHA for earth-moving vehicles with an obstructed view to the rear and no one on the ground to help guide the driver.
Is a backup alarm required?
As you may be aware, OSHA has no requirements for back-up alarms in the general industry standards, 29 CFR Part 1910. ... (i) The vehicle has a reverse signal alarm audible above surrounding noise level or; (ii) The vehicle is backed up only when an observer signals that it is safe to do so."
Is a reversing alarm a legal requirement?
That these automatic alarms are not mandatory on vehicles means that the law do not automatically recognise that a hazard exists - and if it doesn't then use of an alarm when driving in a built up area between the hours of 11.30 pm and 7.00 am is an offense!
