At Hyster, your safety is one of our main concerns. This is the reason why we offer a variety of optional safety devices which could be included to your machinery or work place. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures both visible and audible warning devices as well as head and work lamps.
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 basic on all types of lift trucks. Although forklifts are not required to have audible or visible warning devices, there are several situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and every case needs to be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up 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 needs to be distinguished from other types of noises in the work place and the sound should be very loud to be heard in the work site, even if other types of equipment could be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the noise is coming from can be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby homes, or nearby companies, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations also need to be followed so as to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices might include the common rotating, flashing or strobe lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices might be more suitable compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main concerns to consider to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other employees. Safety light colours must be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work place. Safety device positioning are really important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement should not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit numerous application needs, Hyster has a variety of optional lights that consist of weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights could hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night safer. Directional lighting is required if the truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.