At Hyster, your safety is amongst our main concerns. This is why we offer a variety of optional safety equipment which can be included to your machinery or work place. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices in addition to work and head lamps.
The only warning device needed on the lift truck according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is standard on all kinds of forklifts. Although visible or audible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are some conditions where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work site or work place and every situation must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to take into consideration is the noise level produced by the alarm. First of all, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other types of noises within the work place and the noise must be really loud to be heard in the work location, even when other types of machines could be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is originating from can be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby residents, or nearby businesses, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also need to be followed in order to make sure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many points should be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices might be more suitable compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main priorities to consider to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers. Colour of safety lights must be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work site. Safety device placement are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit many application needs, Hyster has a variety of optional lights which consist of weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights could hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work areas a lot safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has lots of options which would help increase visibility in low-light conditions.