At Hyster, your safety is one of our top concerns. This is the reason why we provide a range of optional safety devices that could be added to your machine or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes head and work lamps in addition to both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all types of forklifts. Though lift trucks are not required to have audible or visible warning devices, there are several cases where optional warning devices might be appropriate. These factors are unique to each and every work site or work place and every condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to take into account is the level of noise made by the alarm. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other sounds in the work place and the noise has to be loud enough to be heard in the work location, even if other machinery could be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from can be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby residents, or nearby companies, alarms may have 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 make certain that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently rotating, flashing or strobe lights, many factors must be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and driver distraction are top concerns to take into consideration to make certain that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other employees. Colour of safety lights must be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in 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 operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit numerous application requirements, Hyster has a variety of optional lights which include weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights could hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the forklift produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives which will help increase visibility in low-light situations.