One of Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer numerous pieces of optional safety equipment that could be incorporated to either the work site or the machinery itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices as well as head and work lamps.
According to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations, the only warning device needed on a lift truck is the horn on the steering wheel, which is a standard feature on all forklifts. Although audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of forklifts, there are a few situations where optional warning devices might be suitable. These factors are unique to each work place or work site and each and every case must 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. To begin with, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other sounds in the work place and the noise should be loud enough to be heard in the work location, even when other kinds of machinery could be functioning. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is coming from can be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby houses, or nearby companies, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also need to be followed in order to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might consist of the common rotating, flashing or strobe lights. Things to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices might be more appropriate than audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and driver distraction are all top priorities to take into consideration to ensure 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 within the work place. Position of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights must 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 must not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet many application requirements, Hyster has a range of optional lights that include weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights can hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous choices that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.