At Hyster, your safety is one of our top concerns. This is the reason why we offer a variety of optional safety devices which can be included to your machine or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes head and work lamps along with both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device needed on the forklift according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is standard on all kinds of lift trucks. Although visible or audible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are a few situations where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work site or work place and each and every condition must be considered individually.
Back-up alarms or motion alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise produced by these alarms are the main thing to consider. First of all, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other sounds in the work place and the noise must be really loud to be heard in the work site, even if other types of machines could be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from could be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby companies, or nearby residents, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also need to be followed in order to make certain that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most commonly flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many factors should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate than audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all top priorities to take into consideration to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other workers and are effective. Colour of safety lights must be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work place. Safety device placement are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to meet numerous application requirements such as weather-resistant LED and halogen lights that hold up through vibration and shock as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night a lot safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives that will really help increase visibility in low-light situations.