At Hyster, your safety is amongst our top concerns. This is the reason why we provide a range of optional safety devices which could be included to your machinery or work site. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes both visible and audible warning devices in addition to head and work lamps.
The only warning device needed 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 lift trucks are not required to have both audible or visible warning devices, there are some conditions where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and each and every condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main point to consider is the noise level made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other sounds in the work place and the noise must be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even if other types of machines could be running. 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 homes, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise needs to be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations also have to be followed so as to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most commonly rotating, flashing or strobe lights, many points should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate than audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and driver distraction are all main concerns to consider to make certain that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Colour of safety lights must be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work site. Safety device placement are really important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning should 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.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to suit numerous application needs like halogen lights and weather-resistant LED which hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for 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 forklift produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many choices that would truly help increase visibility in low-light conditions.