1. What is this "right of way" and what is it's purpose?

I would submit that a "right of way" is simply "who goes first through a specific location whether it be an aisle, intersection or other spot where pedestrian meets machine."

Purpose: To ensure a safer workplace for all. ( Especially in those areas where it is of necessity for pedestrians and lift operators to interact and comingle )

There are really 3 basic areas we are discussing.

a) Warehouse and related docks. In this area I honestly beleive that the pedestrian should give up right of way as the lift traffic would by nature be loaded and moving. ( this is also the primary work area for most lift traffic ) There is by nature very little pedestrian traffic in this area.

I actually greet every pedestrian I see in the warehouse area with "How can I help you?" ( Once we see and acknowledge each other the risk of an accident drops dramatically ) again...there is very little pedestrian traffic in a typical warehouse. ( Home depot or Sams is far from typical )

b) Plant floors. This area tends to have far more pedestrian traffic ( this is their work area ) I beleive that it is the lift operator that should show extreme caution and low speed (and give up right of way) The lift operator has a pick up or delivery ( maybe both ) but speed in this area is not the way to go. ( I would submit that these Stores like Home Depot fall into this area )

c) common areas such as entrances to office areas, breakrooms, bathroom facilities..ect.

again..Pedestrians are in far greater numbers here and the lift operator should show considerable caution and give up right of way in these types of areas. The operator should also have the habit of engaging the parking brake and taking the key with him/her when they must leave their lift ( in a designated area of course ). The worste accident I have ever witnessed was a pedestrian getting on a lift that he had no business getting on. ( he was about to be late to clock in )

All of these "safety devices" are ok i guess...but in reality..Safety is a way of thinking. It's knowing when to drive and when to slow the $#@$@ down. ( speed is a great thing to use...in its appropriate area but it can KILL when used unwisely ) It's paying attention to your load, your lift, and your surroundings. It's taking "ownership" in your job and the area(s) in which you work.

Legislating or Engineering Safety will NEVER work. It is after all a human thing that machines will never understand.

just my.02