At Hyster, your safety is one of our main concerns. This is the reason why we provide a variety of optional safety devices that could be included to your machine or work place. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes head and work lamps as well as both audible and visible 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 types of forklifts. Though forklifts are not required to have visible or audible warning devices, there are several cases where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and each and every case should be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most commonly back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main point to take into account is the level of noise made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device should 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 if other machines could be operating. 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 disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby homes, alarms might have to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices may comprise the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices might be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all top concerns to consider to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Colour of safety lights should be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work site. Placement of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to meet many application needs such as weather-resistant LED and halogen lights which hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces much safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the lift truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives which would help increase visibility in low-light situations.