At Hyster, your safety is among our top concerns. This is the reason why we provide a range of optional safety equipment that could be added to your machinery or work place. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures both visible and audible warning devices along with work and head lamps.
The only warning device needed on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is standard on all types of lift trucks. Though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are several conditions where optional warning devices might be suitable. These factors are unique to every work place or work site and each and every situation has to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most commonly motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to consider is the level of noise made by the alarm. First of all, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other noises within the work place and the noise should be very loud to be heard in the work site, even if other equipment may be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from can be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby companies, or nearby homes, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound has to be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Rules should also be followed to make certain that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most commonly rotating, flashing or strobe lights, numerous points must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are main priorities to take into account to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Safety light colours must be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work site. Placement of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights should not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to meet many application needs such as halogen lights and weather-resistant LED that hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives which will help increase visibility in low-light situations.