Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer many pieces of optional safety equipment that could be included to either the work site or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures both audible and visible warning devices along with work and head 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 standard feature on all forklifts. Even if forklifts are not required to have visible or audible warning devices, there are several conditions where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each and every work site or work place and every situation has to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main point to consider is the noise level produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other types of noises within the work site and the noise has to be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even when other kinds of machines could be running. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from could be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby houses, or nearby companies, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound has to be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Rules must also be followed in order to ensure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices may include the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices may be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and driver distraction are main concerns to take into account to make sure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers. Safety light colours should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are in the work place. Position of safety devices are extremely important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights must not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to suit numerous application requirements like weather-resistant LED and halogen lights that hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the lift truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous choices that would help increase visibility in low-light conditions.