One of Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer many pieces of optional safety equipment that can be added to either the work place or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes head and work lamps as well as 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 forklifts. Although audible or visible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are some situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work place or work site and each case needs to be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise produced by these alarms are the main factor to consider. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other noises in the work place and the sound has to be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even when other kinds of machines may be running. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the noise is coming from can be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby residents, or nearby businesses, alarms may have to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations also have to be followed so as to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might comprise the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Factors to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices might be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are all top priorities to take into account to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Safety light colours must be different from other lights and background surfaces which are in the work site. Position of safety devices are extremely important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit numerous application requirements, Hyster has a range of optional lights that consist of halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights could 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 spaces safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the forklift produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has lots of options that will truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.