Overview
ISO 18063-2:2021 - "Rough-terrain trucks - Visibility test methods and their verification - Part 2: Slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks" specifies a static test method and verification requirements to evaluate operator visibility for slewing rough-terrain variable-reach trucks. The standard applies to trucks with a left‑hand or centre seated operator position (excludes right‑side operator positions). It defines how to measure visibility around a rectangular boundary close to the truck and on a 12 m visibility test circle, and it allows calculation methods or computer simulation as alternatives to physical tests.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test scope and truck types: Applies to slewing rough‑terrain variable‑reach trucks as defined in ISO 5053‑1:2020 (operator left or centre position).
- Static test geometry: Visibility is assessed on a rectangular boundary (typically 1 m from the truck envelope for most tests) and a 12 m visibility test circle for on‑travel conditions.
- Four representative test modes:
- Driving between work sites (high speed) - front sector of the 12 m circle
- Pick‑and‑carry (manoeuvring at low speed) - 1 m rectangular boundary around truck
- Pick‑and‑place (slewing upper structure) - close proximity checks around boom and tail
- Fork arm visibility - important for long‑reach trucks
- Masking and test loads: Standard test loads and representative boom geometries are used to determine visibility maskings caused by the truck, attachments and load.
- Eye spacing and ergonomics: Eye spacing adjustments (within limits in the standard) account for head/torso movement; performance criteria combine eye spacing and masking widths.
- Evaluation methods: Direct measurement, calculation method, or computer simulation may be used; established criteria guide acceptable extents of maskings and allowed spacing between multiple maskings.
- Indirect-vision devices: The standard does not set normative performance requirements for additional indirect-vision means (mirrors/CCTV); informative guidance may be provided.
- Reporting and manufacturer information: Test reports must include truck details and drawings; manufacturers must supply specified information to users.
Practical applications and users
ISO 18063-2:2021 is intended for:
- Truck manufacturers and designers - to evaluate and improve operator visibility during design and certification
- Safety engineers and compliance officers - to verify conformity with visibility performance criteria
- Regulators, market surveillance and accident prevention bodies - for standardised test methods and reporting
- Fleet owners, training and maintenance personnel - to understand visibility limitations during operation and servicing
This standard helps reduce blind‑spot related hazards on construction and industrial sites by providing objective, repeatable visibility testing methods for slewing rough‑terrain variable‑reach trucks.
Related standards
- ISO 5053-1:2020 (definition of truck types)
- ISO 12100 (type‑C standard context and risk principles)
- ISO 16001 (other visibility aids and guidance)
- Other parts of the ISO 18063 series (visibility for different truck categories)