OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 protects pedestrians mainly through operator duties and training. Operators must slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles and other places where vision is obstructed, look in the direction of travel and keep a clear view of the path, travel with the load trailing when it blocks forward view, observe plant speed limits, drive at a speed that allows a safe stop, and keep people from standing or passing under elevated forks. Employers must train and evaluate every operator under 1910.178(l). The standard does not require proximity or pedestrian detection systems.
The full guide is OSHA forklift pedestrian safety. Related duties sit outside 1910.178: 1910.176 requires safe clearances in aisles, at docks and through doorways, with permanent aisles marked, and the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act covers recognised hazards that no specific standard addresses.
Detection systems can help an employer meet these duties but do not substitute for training and traffic rules. This is a summary, not legal advice; check the current text and any state plan rules. OSHA forklift regulations in plain English covers the full standard.