Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they provide many pieces of optional safety equipment which could be included to either the work place or the machinery itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps along with both audible and visible warning devices.
According to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations, the only warning device required on a lift truck is the steering wheel horn, that is a basic feature on all lift trucks. Even though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of forklifts, there are several cases where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and each condition must 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 take into account. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other types of sounds in the work site and the noise should be very loud to be heard in the work site, even if other machinery could be functioning. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is originating from can be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby homes, or nearby businesses, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed so as to make sure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices may include the common rotating, flashing or strobe lights. Factors to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, driver distraction and workplace lighting are all main priorities to consider to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers and are effective. Colour of safety lights must be different from background surfaces and other lights which are within the work place. Safety device positioning are of greatest 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 obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet many application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights that include weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. 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 spaces or at night much safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the lift truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives which would really help increase visibility in low-light conditions.