At Hyster, your safety is one of our main concerns. This is why we provide a range of optional safety equipment that could be included to your machine or work place. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps as well as both audible and visible warning devices.
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. Even though lift trucks are not required to have both audible or visible warning devices, there are some situations where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and every situation has to be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise produced by these alarms are the main thing to consider. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other noises within the work place and the sound has to be really loud to be heard in the work site, even when other types of equipment may be running. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know where the sound is coming from could be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby companies, or nearby houses, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Rules should also be followed to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, numerous factors should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices might be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, driver distraction and workplace lighting are main priorities to consider to make certain that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work site. Placement of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights should not overly block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet many application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights which comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights are able to 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 safer. Directional lighting is required if the lift truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.