Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer many pieces of optional safety devices which can be added to either the work site or the machinery itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes both visible and audible warning devices as well as work and head 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 basic on all types of lift trucks. Though lift trucks are not required to have both visible or audible warning devices, there are several cases where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and each case needs to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to take into consideration is the level of noise made by the alarm. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other noises within the work place and the noise has to be loud enough to be heard in the work location, even when other machines could be working. 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 very disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby houses, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound has to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations should also be followed so as to make certain that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
Visible safety devices might include the common strobe, rotating, or flashing lights. Factors to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices might be more appropriate than audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all main priorities to take into consideration to make certain 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 which are within the work place. Safety device positioning are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit many application requirements, Hyster has a range of optional lights that include weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights can hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the forklift produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous options which will help increase visibility in low-light situations.