At Hyster, your safety is among our top concerns. This is the reason why we offer a range of optional safety devices that could be included to your machinery or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices along with work and head lamps.
According to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations, the only warning device required on a lift truck is the horn on the steering wheel, that is a basic feature on all lift trucks. Although visible or audible warning devices are not required on all kinds of lift trucks, there are several situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and every situation must be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise made by these alarms are the main factor to take into account. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other noises in the work site and the noise should be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even when other kinds of machinery may be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the sound is originating from can be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby homes, or nearby companies, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations should also be followed in order to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might consist of the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Things to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all top concerns to take into account to make sure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other employees. Safety light colours should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work site. Placement of safety devices are of utmost importance. Lights must 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 excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to meet numerous application requirements including weather-resistant LED and halogen lights that 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 forklift lighting produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many options that will really help increase visibility in low-light conditions.