Amongst Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer numerous pieces of optional safety equipment that can be included to either the work place or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices as well as work and head lamps.
According to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations, the only warning device required on a forklift is the steering wheel horn, which is a basic feature on all forklifts. Even though lift trucks are not required to have audible or visible warning devices, there are some conditions where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and each and every condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most frequently back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to consider is the level of noise made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device has to be distinguished from other types of sounds in the work site and the sound must be loud enough to be heard in the work location, even when other types of machinery may be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is coming from could be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby residents, alarms might have to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Rules also need to be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently rotating, flashing or strobe lights, numerous points must be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and driver distraction are top concerns to consider to make certain that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Colour of safety lights should be different from other lights and background surfaces that are in the work site. Placement of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights must not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to meet many application needs like halogen lights and weather-resistant LED that hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night a lot safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the forklift makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives that will help increase visibility in low-light situations.