One of Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide numerous pieces of optional safety equipment that could be added to either the work place or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps along with both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device needed on the forklift according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is standard on all kinds of forklifts. Though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of lift trucks, there are several situations where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and every condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to take into account is the level of noise made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other kinds of sounds within the work site and the sound should be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machinery may be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is originating from could be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby houses, alarms may need to be disabled. If noise needs to be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Rules must also be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might comprise the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Things to think about with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, driver distraction and workplace lighting are main priorities to take into account to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other workers. Colour of safety lights should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work place. Safety device positioning are extremely important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights should not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet numerous application requirements, Hyster has a variety of optional lights that comprise weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights are able to hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the lift truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives which will truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.