Amongst Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they provide numerous pieces of optional safety equipment that could be added to either the work place or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures both audible and visible warning devices along with head and work lamps.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is standard on all kinds of forklifts. Even though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all types of lift trucks, there are several situations where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work site or work place and every case should be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to consider is the level of noise produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device has to be distinguished from other kinds of sounds in the work place and the sound should be loud enough to be heard in the work location, even when other types of machines may be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the noise is originating from can be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby businesses, or nearby houses, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Rules also need to be followed so as to ensure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many factors should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices might be more suitable compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, driver distraction and workplace lighting are main concerns to take into consideration to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other workers and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work site. Placement of safety devices are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights should not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit many application needs, Hyster has a variety of optional lights which consist of halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights can 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 areas safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the lift truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous choices which would truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.