JLG debuts new telehandler safety options

JLG Industries, Inc. has announced it now offers a Seatbelt Engagement and Operator Presence option for its 742, 943, 1043, 1055 and 1255 telehandler models. The system, which includes seatbelt engagement assurance and operator presence functionality, as well as a high visibility orange seatbelt, uses visual and audible alarms, as well as limits machine functions, to enhance safety during telehandler operation.

JLG’s new telehandler safety options.

Seatbelt engagement assurance functions by producing a visible and audible alarm that activates whenever an operator is seated and unbuckled. For example, when the operator is seated with the vehicle ignition key on, alarms will be activated immediately and continuously. The alarms will cease when the operator leaves the seat or turns the vehicle ignition off, JLG said.

The alarms are intended to alert and remind the operator and will not prevent engine start up or hydraulic and drive functions, similar to seat belt alarms in automobiles.

Operator presence functionality prohibits engine start and hydraulic functions if an operator is not present. Additionally, if the system detects a loss of seat pressure during operation, one of the following will occur:

If the park brake is engaged and the transmission is in neutral, hydraulic controls are disabled. Upon returning to a seated position, the hydraulic controls are enabled.

If the park brake is disengaged and the transmission is in neutral, hydraulic controls are disabled and the cabin alarm sounds continuously. Upon returning to a seated position, hydraulic controls are enabled, and the cabin alarm will cease.

If the park brake is disengaged and the transmission is in forward or reverse, hydraulic controls are disabled, the cabin alarm sounds continuously, and the transmission shifts to neutral. Upon returning to a seated position, hydraulic controls are enabled, and the cabin alarm will cease. The transmission will need to be returned to neutral to allow the system to reset prior to re-engaging forward or reverse travel.