At Hyster, your safety is one of our main concerns. This is why we provide a range of optional safety devices which can be added to your machine or work place. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices along with head and work lamps.
According to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations, the only warning device required on a forklift is the steering wheel horn, which is a standard feature on all lift trucks. Although forklifts are not required to have both visible or audible warning devices, there are several conditions where optional warning devices might be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and each and every situation should be considered individually.
Back-up alarms or motion alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise made by these alarms are the main factor to consider. First of all, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other types of sounds in the work place and the sound needs to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other machines could be running. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know 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 homes, or nearby companies, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise must be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Rules must also be followed to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most commonly flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many points must be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are main concerns to consider to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other employees and are effective. Colour of safety lights should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work place. Safety device positioning are really important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet numerous application requirements, Hyster has a variety of optional lights that comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights are able to 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 safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lift truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives that would help increase visibility in low-light situations.