One of Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer numerous pieces of optional safety equipment that can be incorporated to either the work place or the machinery itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps as well as both audible and visible warning devices.
The only warning device needed on the lift truck according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all types of lift trucks. Even though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of forklifts, there are a few cases where optional warning devices may be suitable. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and each case should 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. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other sounds in the work site and the sound has to be very loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machinery may be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from can be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby homes, or nearby companies, alarms may have to be disabled. If sound has to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Rules must also be followed to make sure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many factors should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate than audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are top priorities to take into account 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 site. Placement of safety devices are very important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet numerous application needs, Hyster has a variety of optional lights which comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights can hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night a lot safer. Directional lighting is required if the lift truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives which would truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.