At Hyster, your safety is amongst our top concerns. This is the reason why we offer a range of optional safety equipment which could be included to your machine or work place. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes work and head lamps as well as both visible and audible warning devices.
According to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations, the only warning device needed on a forklift is the horn on the steering wheel, which is a basic feature on all lift trucks. Although lift trucks are not required to have both audible or visible warning devices, there are several conditions where optional warning devices might be suitable. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and each condition should be considered individually.
Back-up alarms or motion alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise made by these alarms are the main thing to take into consideration. To begin with, the audible device has to be distinguished from other kinds of noises within the work site and the sound must be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other machinery may be functioning. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the noise is originating from can be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby residents, alarms may have to be disabled. If noise needs to be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations should also be followed in order to ensure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices may include the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are main concerns to consider to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Safety light colours must be different from other lights and background surfaces that are within the work site. Position of safety devices are extremely important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights must not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit numerous application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights which include weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights could hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many choices that would really help increase visibility in low-light situations.