What is a Forklift Overhead Guard Assembly?

Forklift overhead guards (OHG) are essential, required safety devices designed to protect the operator from falling objects.

Requirements and Recommended Practices:

• Use an overhead guard as protection against falling objects such as small packages, boxes, bagged material, etc., but not to withstand the impact of a falling capacity load. [29 CFR 1910.178(m)(9)]
• Wear a hard hat when appropriate for additional protection.
• Keep hands and feet within the forklift to avoid danger of falling loads.
• Use a load backrest extension behind the forks whenever necessary to minimize the possibility of the load or part of it from falling rearward. [29 CFR 1910.178(m)(10)]
• Equip all high-lift rider trucks, order-picker trucks and rough-terrain forklift trucks with an overhead guard manufactured in accordance with ANSI B56.1-1969, "Safety Standard for Low and High Lift Trucks," unless operating conditions do not permit. [29 CFR 1910.178(e)(1)]
• As part of the daily inspection of the forklift, check the overhead guard for broken welds, missing bolts, or other damage. (Source OSHA Article) 

FAQ's about OHG's

Q: Are OHG's universal?
A: No. Each forklift OHG is custom designed to the make/model of each particular forklift.

Q: Is it possible to repair my OHG by replacing only certain parts or components?
A: Typically no, unless the manufacturer has designed it that way. There are a few with bolted legs that are designed to be replaced.

Q: How much do OHG's cost?
A: New OHG's range in price from about $1500-$3500. You can typically save at least 50% or more by buying used guards.

About Morrison Used Parts Depot

Here at the Used Parts Depot we have quality used parts for late model Mitsubishi, Cat and other fork truck brands including mast assemblies, steer axles, overhead guards, transmissions, wheels/tires and much, much more!

We have thousands of parts in stock, ready to ship today!