At Hyster, your safety is one of our top concerns. This is why we provide a range of optional safety devices that could be added to your machinery or work site. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps along with both visible and audible warning devices.
According to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations, the only warning device needed on a lift truck is the horn on the steering wheel, that is a standard feature on all lift trucks. Even though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all types of lift trucks, there are several cases where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and each 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 factor to consider. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other sounds within the work site and the noise has to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other equipment could be running. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from can be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby houses, or nearby businesses, alarms may have to be disabled. If noise needs to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also have to be followed so as to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, numerous points must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are all main concerns to consider to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Colour of safety lights should be different from other lights and background surfaces that are in the work place. Safety device placement are extremely important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights 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.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to meet many application needs including halogen lights and weather-resistant LED which hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night a lot safer. Directional lighting is needed if the forklift lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives which would really help increase visibility in low-light situations.