Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide many pieces of optional safety equipment which can be included to either the work place or the machine itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures both audible and visible warning devices as well as head and work lamps.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all kinds of lift trucks. Although forklifts are not required to have both audible or visible warning devices, there are some conditions where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and each and every situation should be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise produced by these alarms are the main factor to take into account. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other noises in the work place and the sound must be loud enough to be heard in the work location, even when other kinds of machinery may be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the sound is coming from could be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby homes, alarms might need to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations also have to be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, numerous points must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices might be more appropriate than audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are top priorities to consider to make certain that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other workers and are effective. Safety light colours must be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work place. Placement of safety devices are very important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights must not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to suit numerous application requirements including weather-resistant LED and halogen lights that hold up through shock and vibration 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 safer. Directional lighting is needed if the forklift lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives which will help increase visibility in low-light situations.