Amongst Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer many pieces of optional safety equipment which can be included to either the work place or the machine itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes work and head lamps along with both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is basic on all kinds of lift trucks. Although visible or audible warning devices are not required on all kinds of forklifts, there are several conditions where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work place or work site and every condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most commonly back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to take into account is the noise level made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other sounds within the work site and the sound must be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even when other types of machinery may be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is coming from can be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby companies, or nearby houses, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound must be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed to make sure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most commonly flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many points must be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all main priorities to consider to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other workers and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work site. Safety device placement are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet numerous application needs, Hyster has a variety of optional lights which consist of weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights are able to hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work areas safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the forklift makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of options which will truly help increase visibility in low-light conditions.