12.05.2010

Skylight glass bulletin - Update

We have received more information on the subject of the Australian skylight bulletin yesterday.

It seems that the alert that was recently published in Australia originally came from someone within the North America transmission grid: They have provided a note with further information for those who have come across it and requested more information: His answer to such enquiries is as follows:

“You have recently obtained a safety notification I made for my internal crews as a hazard and as an awareness for the contractors we use.”

“This was a company owned Excavator, a Cat 322c. After this notification our fleet department went out and replaced the glass to eliminate the optical illusion. For us, the issue is resolved and I hope you can benefit from this information.”

“Do you utilize glass rated to AS1 or AS2 per the ANSI Z26.1 Glazing standard in both the front windshield and also the skylight. This is referenced in the ASME B30.5 standard as follows: " 5-1.8.1(b) All cab glazing shall be safety glazing material as defined in ANSI Z26.1.Windows shall be provided in the front and on both sides of the cab or operator's compartment with visibility forward and to either side.”

“Visibility forward shall include a vertical range adequate to cover the boom point at all times. The front window may have a section that can be readily removed or held open, if desired. If the section is of the type held in the open position, it shall be secured to prevent inadvertent closure. A windshield wiper should be provided on the front window."

From this is would seem that the problem may be caused by the fitting of inappropriate glass for the application? One assumes as a replacement rather than incorrect fitment in original equipment. If anyone has anything to add to this that can be of help we would be pleased to publish it or feel free to use our comment section.