Amongst Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide numerous pieces of optional safety devices that can be included to either the work site or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes both visible and audible warning devices as well as head and work lamps.
According to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations, the only warning device required on a forklift is the horn on the steering wheel, which is a basic feature on all forklifts. Though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are a few 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 condition should be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to consider is the level of noise produced by the alarm. First of all, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other types of noises within the work place and the noise has to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even when other equipment may be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby houses, or nearby businesses, alarms may need to be disabled. If noise must be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed so as to make sure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices may include the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices might be more appropriate than audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main priorities to take into consideration to make sure 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 that are in the work site. Safety device positioning are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to meet numerous application needs including weather-resistant LED and halogen lights that hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work areas much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many choices that will really help increase visibility in low-light situations.