Amongst Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer numerous pieces of optional safety equipment that could be included to either the work site or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes head and work lamps along with both audible and visible warning devices.
The only warning device needed on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is standard on all kinds of lift trucks. Although forklifts are not required to have both visible or audible warning devices, there are some cases where optional warning devices may be suitable. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and every 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 consider. First of all, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other noises in the work place and the noise should be very loud to be heard in the work site, even if other machinery could be functioning. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby houses, or nearby businesses, alarms may have to be disabled. If sound must be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations also have to be followed to make certain that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices might consist of the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Factors to consider with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are top priorities to take into consideration to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers and are effective. Colour of safety lights should be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work site. Safety device positioning are very important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to meet many application requirements including halogen lights and weather-resistant LED which hold up through vibration and shock as well. When it comes to work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces a lot safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many choices which will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.