One of Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide numerous pieces of optional safety devices that can be incorporated to either the work place or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps as well as both audible and visible warning devices.
The only warning device required on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all kinds of forklifts. Although visible or audible warning devices are not required on all types of forklifts, there are a few conditions where optional warning devices may be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and each condition should be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main point to take into consideration is the noise level produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other types of noises in the work place and the sound needs to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other kinds of equipment may be working. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is originating from could be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby companies, or nearby houses, alarms may need to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations also have to be followed to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices might comprise the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are all main priorities to consider to make sure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other employees. Colour of safety lights should be different from other lights and background surfaces that are in the work site. Safety device placement are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights must not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to suit many application requirements such as halogen lights and weather-resistant LED that hold up through vibration and shock as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work areas safer. Directional lighting is required if the forklift lighting produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many options that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.