At Hyster, your safety is one of our main concerns. This is why we offer a variety of optional safety devices which could be added to your machinery or work site. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures head and work lamps as well as both audible and visible warning devices.
The only warning device required on the lift truck according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all kinds of forklifts. Although audible or visible warning devices are not required on all kinds of forklifts, there are several cases where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and each case 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 consideration. First of all, the audible device has to be distinguished from other sounds within the work site and the sound has to be really loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machines could be functioning. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the noise is originating from could be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby homes, or nearby companies, alarms might need to be disabled. If noise has to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also have to be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently rotating, flashing or strobe lights, many points should be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices might be more suitable compared to audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are top concerns to consider to make sure that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other workers and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work place. Safety device placement are very important. Lights must 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 range of optional lights to meet many application needs like weather-resistant LED and halogen lights which hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the lift truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many options that would truly help increase visibility in low-light conditions.