Amongst Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer numerous pieces of optional safety devices that can be incorporated to either the work site or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures both visible and audible warning devices along with head and work lamps.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is standard on all types of lift trucks. Though forklifts are not required to have both visible or audible warning devices, there are several cases where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place 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 take into account. To begin with, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other kinds of noises in the work place and the sound needs to be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machinery could be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the noise is coming from could be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby homes, or nearby businesses, alarms may need to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Rules also need to be followed in order to make sure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, many points must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main priorities to consider to make sure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Colour of safety lights should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are within the work site. Safety device placement are of greatest importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to suit numerous application requirements such as halogen lights and weather-resistant LED that hold up through vibration and shock as well. When it comes to work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many choices that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.