Bill > HB1479

This bill requires state and county-owned vehicles purchased on or after January 1, 2028, to use broadband audible reverse warning systems instead of traditional single-tone "beep-beep-beep" backup alarms. The legislation is motivated by studies showing that broadband alarms (sometimes called "quackers" or "croakers") are nearly two-thirds more effective at preventing workplace accidents and reducing noise pollution compared to conventional tonal alarms. The bill applies to a wide range of vehicles, including earthmoving and compacting equipment like bulldozers, tractors, loaders, and graders. While the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) currently requires reversing alarms to be audible above surrounding noise levels, it does not specify a particular type of alarm sound. The bill aims to improve safety by utilizing more distinguishable and less monotonous warning sounds that are less likely to cause worker desensitization, with a goal of protecting residents from disruptive noise and implementing safer vehicular reversing practices.

Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1479&year=2026