At Hyster, your safety is one of our top concerns. This is the reason why we provide a variety of optional safety equipment that can be added to your machinery or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures head and work lamps in addition to both visible and audible warning devices.
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. Even though visible or audible warning devices are not required on all types of lift trucks, there are some situations 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 commonly motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to take into account is the noise level produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device has to be distinguished from other sounds in the work place and the sound should be really loud to be heard in the work site, even when other machinery could be working. The ability for workers 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 too disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby houses, or nearby businesses, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Rules should also be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, numerous factors should be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all main concerns to take into consideration to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are within the work site. Position of safety devices are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement should not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights must not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to suit many application needs like weather-resistant LED and halogen lights which hold up through vibration and shock 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 a lot safer. Directional lighting is required if the lift truck lighting produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous options that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.