At Hyster, your safety is one of our top concerns. This is the reason why we offer a range of optional safety devices which can be added to your machinery or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes work and head lamps as well as 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, that is a basic feature on all lift trucks. Though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of lift trucks, there are a few situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work place or work site and each and every situation has to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most commonly 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 site and the sound needs to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other machinery could be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from could be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby houses, alarms might have to be disabled. If sound has to be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations also need to be followed in order to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices might include the common rotating, flashing or strobe lights. Things to think about with visible safety devices include whether or not these devices may be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are top priorities to consider to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work place. Placement of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights must not excessively block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to suit many application requirements such as weather-resistant LED and halogen lights 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 spaces safer. Directional lighting is required if the truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives that would really help increase visibility in low-light conditions.