At Hyster, your safety is amongst our top concerns. This is the reason why we provide a range of optional safety devices which can be added to your machinery or work place. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps as well as 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 steering wheel horn, that is a basic feature on all lift trucks. Even though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of forklifts, there are a few situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work place or work site and every condition has to be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up 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 needs to be distinguished from other noises within the work place and the sound should be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even when other kinds of machines could be operating. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby homes, or nearby businesses, alarms may have to be disabled. If noise must be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Rules should 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 factors should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are top priorities to consider to make certain that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Colour of safety lights must be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work site. Placement of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights should not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit many application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights which comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights can hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lift truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives that would really help increase visibility in low-light conditions.