Amongst Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer many pieces of optional safety equipment which can be included to either the work place or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes head and work lamps as well as both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device required on the lift truck according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is basic on all kinds of forklifts. Although visible or audible warning devices are not required on all types of lift trucks, there are several situations where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and each and every case needs to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most frequently back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to consider is the noise level made by the alarm. First of all, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other types of noises in the work place and the sound needs to be really loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machines may be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from can be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby residents, or nearby companies, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise needs to be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Regulations also need to be followed in order to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices may consist of the common rotating, flashing or strobe lights. Things to consider with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices might be more suitable compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are main concerns to take into consideration to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers and are effective. Colour of safety lights must be different from other lights and background surfaces that are within the work site. Placement of safety devices are extremely important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights should not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not overly block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet numerous application needs, Hyster has a variety of optional lights that comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights can hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces a lot safer. Directional lighting is required if the truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous options that will truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.