Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they provide numerous pieces of optional safety devices which could be included to either the work place or the machine itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures head and work lamps as well as both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is standard on all kinds of forklifts. Even if visible or audible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are some cases where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work place or work site and each and every condition should be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise made by these alarms are the main factor to take into consideration. To begin with, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other types of noises in the work site and the sound should be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other kinds of equipment could be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the sound is coming from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby homes, or nearby companies, alarms might have to be disabled. If sound must be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also have to be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might comprise the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices may be more appropriate than audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all main priorities to consider to make certain that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from other lights and background surfaces that are in the work place. Safety device positioning are of utmost importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights should not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet many application requirements, Hyster has a variety of optional lights that comprise weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights can 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 areas or at night much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lift truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives which would really help increase visibility in low-light situations.