At Hyster, your safety is one of our top concerns. This is the reason why we provide a range of optional safety equipment which can be added to your machine or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes work and head lamps in addition to both audible and visible warning devices.
According to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations, the only warning device needed on a forklift is the steering wheel horn, which is a basic feature on all forklifts. Although lift trucks are not required to have both visible or audible warning devices, there are a few cases where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and each and every 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. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other types of noises in the work place and the sound must be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even when other types of equipment may be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is coming from could be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby residents, or nearby businesses, alarms might have to be disabled. If sound must be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Regulations also need to be followed to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might include the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Factors to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices might be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all top priorities to consider to make certain that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other employees and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are in the work place. Placement of safety devices are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights should not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver'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 consist of weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights are able to hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the forklift makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous alternatives that will really help increase visibility in low-light conditions.